The journey toward Augusta’s trademark azaleas, towering pine trees, and meticulously manicured fairways begins in November when representatives from The Master’s interview current LCI students. Later in January, they return to Baton Rouge to hire the staff for that year’s tournament. For students that excel, re-hire positions are available after they graduate. The Master’s only partners with three culinary schools in the nation, Louisiana Culinary Institute is one.

“Best time of the year. Four years down, can’t wait for the next four! Networking doesn’t get any better than this,” says LCI alumna, Stevie Payne.

“What stood out for me at The Master’s was working fast. I am not used to that so it gave me the opportunity to work on my speed, hearing, and communication. I worked with press, green jackets, and camera crews, so appearance is everything,” said Kevanna Gilmore.

While the champion of The Master’s is awarded with the tournament’s signature green jacket, the students of LCI have an opportunity to earn a white jacket. This prestigious award is a chef’s coat given by The Master’s in recognition of outstanding performance. In 2018, LCI’s students, alumni, and instructors were awarded 10 white jackets.  

“I made connections that will set up for great opportunities after school,” said Bertrand Bailey, Jr., one of LCI’s 2018 white jacket recipients.