Faces of NLU: Meet Arjun Singh
An international student with culinary aspirations talks about honing his skills amidst Chicago’s vibrant and diverse restaurant scene.
At National Louis University (NLU), we’re proud to have built a strong, global community of scholars and alumni, and we take special pride in helping international students from all over the world achieve their educational and professional goals. Arjun Singh, who came to Kendall College at National Louis University from Bihwadi, India, knows first-hand how international students can realize their dreams at NLU.
Arjun came to Kendall College at NLU with a bachelor’s degree already, along with some professional experience working in bars and restaurants. However, Arjun realized he needed to continue building his culinary skills to fully realize his goal of becoming a professional chef:
“I realized that I needed to enhance my practical skills and knowledge. I also wanted to learn more about continental food style,” Arjun says.
Arjun says that the quality of Kendall’s courses, along with Chicago’s diverse and vibrant restaurant scene, are what attracted him to NLU:
“I chose Kendall College at NLU because of its curriculum and practical classes. Also, the University has a recognizable brand name, which will help me in my future career [...] I especially wanted to learn in Chicago because of its food culture. People here are always trying new cuisines, which can give me great exposure during my studies.”
Arjun says that the scholarship he received also helped convince him to attend Kendall College and helped him cover some of the additional costs international students have to take on:
“I received a 25% International Student Scholarship (25% of total tuition). The scholarship has been really helpful to me as an international student, because you have so many additional expenses when you move out from your country to go to school.”
Since he’s been at Kendall College, Arjun says he’s been “loving” the quality of the courses and the passion of his instructors:
“I have only started with my baking classes, but I am loving it -- seriously. Our instructor, Chef Marianne, has been super nice to all the students, and her way of teaching is really commendable [...] Also, I have not yet started my classes with Chef Kang, but I really admire him and want to learn more from him.”
Given his positive experience at Kendall College at NLU so far, it’s no surprise that Arjun would describe the University using one word: “Welcoming.”
When asked to describe his future career in one word, Arjun says, “I like to work in a team, and I always take initiative when given an opportunity to lead, so I will choose ‘Leader’.”
As far as advice that he’d give other international students at NLU, Arjun encourages them to make the most of their time in college:
“This time will not come again, so enjoy it to the fullest, but also manage your time for studies. NLU is a place that can help you make your life.”
Explore all of Kendall College’s culinary and hospitality programs. If you are an international student, you can check out all of the extra support and services you’ll receive at NLU. You can also connect with an Enrollment Specialist to discuss your professional and educational goals.
