According to DeVito (2017), interviewing has multiple purposes, such as collecting information, seeking guidance or counseling, and assessing job application outcomes. It is a valuable method for getting acquainted with others, particularly in research or employment assessments.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the results of a discussion with Michael Ben-Aish, an up-and-coming chef in Miami Beach. As a close friend of mine, I had the opportunity to learn about Michael’s journey to achieving success in his culinary career at a prestigious catering firm despite lacking any formal culinary experience or education. Moreover, we explore his commitment to continuous learning as he follows his passion.
Ben-Aish recounted that his childhood was filled with thrilling and occasionally problematic escapades, resulting in his placement in a child detention center. Nevertheless, he managed to transform this demanding ordeal into a beneficial opportunity by refraining from getting into trouble at the center and fully engaging himself in their cooking classes.
While in the detention center, Ben-Aish found that taking part in cooking classes not only kept him out of trouble but also sparked a passion for this new skill. He also made a commitment to learn from his past errors and promptly resume his education after being released. To support this goal, he acquired his GED while still incarcerated.
Ben-Aish was determined to find cooking jobs after leaving the detention center. He eventually got a job at Buffalo Wild Wings and worked there for two years. Despite facing low pay and mistreatment from his bosses, Ben-Aish was content with working on the line, doing what he loved. When he met his partner, they both decided that he should go back to school. With his partner’s help, who had prior experience in hotels, Ben-Aish managed to secure a position at Hilton hotels. At Hilton, Ben-Aish continued to develop his skills and gained valuable experience.
However, Hilton also benefited from Michael’s exceptional work ethic. He was the only prep cook in the entire hotel, so when he took time off, no work was accomplished and tasks would accumulate. When Michael returned to work, he not only had to complete the current day’s job but also handle the backlog of two days’ worth of work that had been neglected. Despite being repeatedly assured of a higher salary and more hours, these promises were never kept.
Ben-Aish had the bravery to leave Hilton after discovering ShiftGig. He started working at events assigned to him by ShiftGig, ranging from small parties in Wynwood Yard to lavish weddings in Vizcaya Gardens & Museum. Soon, clients of ShiftGig began offering Ben-Aish jobs directly, wanting his skills exclusively.
Before accepting his next job, Michael had already been through two situations where he felt undervalued and where his efforts and time were not given the respect they deserved. As a result, he approached his decision of where to work next with caution and care. Despite receiving offers from various places including Barry University, University of Miami, Miami International Airport, the Edition Hotel, and many others, he declined all of them.
Despite not having a culinary background or education, Michael was offered an irresistible job by Chef Dewey of the Food Network, who is in charge of the Bill Hansen Catering Company. Michael happily works at various high-end catering events in South Florida and is highly respected for his exceptional work ethic, constant desire to learn, and strong determination.
Despite facing various challenges, Ben-Aish never neglected his education and enrolled in college as soon as he had the opportunity. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, he considers coding his focus to keep up with advancements in technology and science. Cooking remains a beloved hobby for him but not a career choice. My interview with Michael Ben-Aish provided insight into his inspiring journey and highlighted the impactful results of one-on-one interviews.
