Skip to main content
6 answers
6
Asked 450 views

What is some advice for a 13 year old 8th grader who wants to run a bakery?

When I'm older I want to run a bakery, but I don't know where to start. I also really want to be great financially. If a bakery doesn't work put I also LOVEE to help people and put a smile on there face, so a therapist would be ok too, but I also don't know where to start for that one either. Any and all advice helps. Thanks so much!!

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

6

6 answers


0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Brandon’s Answer

It's truly inspiring to see such distinct goals at your tender age! Embracing your interests early in life can lay a robust groundwork for your future. Here's a bit of uplifting advice for a 13-year-old budding baker and potential therapist:

For the Bakery:

Hone Your Baking Skills:

Dive into the world of baking at home. Experiment with fresh recipes, master diverse techniques, and grasp the science that underpins baking. Think about enrolling in baking classes or becoming part of a local baking group if one exists.
Create a Portfolio:

Chronicle your creations with pictures and detailed explanations. This will not only display your talents but also serve as a portfolio when you're grown-up and ready to launch your bakery.
Study and Absorb:

Delve into the commercial aspect of operating a bakery. Educate yourself about budgeting, pricing strategies, promotional tactics, and customer relations. Comprehending both the artistic and business facets is vital for a thriving bakery.
Accumulate Experience:

Think about working or offering your services at a neighborhood bakery to acquire practical experience. This will give you a glimpse into the daily workings and assist you in forging ties in the industry.
Financial Awareness:

Cultivate basic financial literacy skills. Comprehend budgeting, saving, and the financial dynamics of running a venture. This wisdom will be beneficial in steering your bakery to success.

For Becoming a Therapist:

Investigate Interests:

Given your inclination towards aiding people and bringing joy to their lives, think about probing different sectors of mental health. Study various kinds of therapy and counseling to discover what aligns with your interests.
Academic Route:

Investigate the academic prerequisites for becoming a therapist. Usually, this entails earning a bachelor's degree in a relevant field (like psychology) and then pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in counseling or therapy.
Offer Your Services and Gather Experience:

Seek out chances to volunteer or intern in environments where you can interact with people and observe therapists in action. This will provide you with a deeper understanding of the profession.
Communication Abilities:

Concentrate on enhancing your communication and empathy skills. Being an attentive listener and comprehending people's emotions are crucial traits for a therapist.
Self-Care Consciousness:

Acknowledge the significance of self-care, both for your own sake and for those you may assist in the future. Understanding the influence of mental health on overall wellness is vital in this profession.
Bear in mind, it's perfectly fine if your interests shift as you grow. The secret is to remain inquisitive, continue learning, and stay open to fresh opportunities. Your eagerness and proactive stance are promising signs of a bright future!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much this really helps!! Charlotte
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Judith-Ann’s Answer

Dear Charlotte from Kansas! You have already brought a smile to my face. Just seeing your delight in baking and making people smile is jus inspiring. As a therapist myself and also one who would love to be a better baker, I understand what you are saying about wanting to bring smiles to the world. Being a baker and being a therapist are two different kinds of smiles. Being a baker, you can see smiles immediately from your work. Being a therapist, you may have to be with the person through their trials, and tears, and hurts, and angers before you see their smile. And many times you don't see a smile, you just hear about it. Whatever path you choose, I know you will follow your heart and you will make the world a better place. Have a wonderful journey.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Hey there, Charlotte!

It's absolutely thrilling to hear about your dream of running a bakery at such a young age. Your passion for baking and helping others is truly admirable. Here's a friendly guide to help you kick-start your journey towards becoming a successful baker, and maybe even a therapist.

1. Embrace Learning: Being a 13-year-old in 8th grade, your education is your priority. If your school offers home economics or culinary classes, grab the opportunity. You can also explore cooking or baking classes in your neighborhood. Working part-time at a bakery or volunteering at local bake sales can give you hands-on experience.

2. Master Your Baking Skills: Baking at home regularly can help you get better. Try out different recipes, play with ingredients, and learn new techniques. Understand the science behind baking, like how ingredients work together and why measurements matter. You could even start a mini baking business at home, selling your baked goodies to friends, family, and neighbors.

3. Understand Finances: Running a successful bakery means understanding money matters. Learn about budgeting, pricing, and basic accounting. Knowing the costs of running a bakery, like ingredients, equipment, and utilities, is key to keeping your business afloat.

4. Do Your Homework and Network: Research successful bakeries and learn from their journey. Connect with local bakers and bakery owners for advice and mentorship. Networking can give you valuable insights and guidance.

5. Explore Therapy as a Career: If you're considering becoming a therapist, start exploring this path too. Focus on your studies, and look for volunteer opportunities in mental health facilities or with therapists. This will help you understand if this field aligns with your passion for helping others.

6. Higher Education Matters: Whether you choose to manage a bakery or become a therapist, higher education will be beneficial. Look for colleges offering programs in culinary arts or psychology, depending on your interest. A degree can equip you with valuable knowledge and credentials.

7. Learn Entrepreneurship: If you plan to run a bakery, you'll need more than just baking skills. Learn about marketing, customer service, business management, and the legal aspects of running a food business.

8. Find a Mentor: Look for mentors in the bakery industry or therapy field. They can guide you, share their experiences, and help you avoid common mistakes.

9. Stay Positive and Resilient: Both baking and therapy can be challenging but rewarding careers. Stay passionate and resilient, even when you face hurdles.

In a nutshell, to pursue a career in baking or therapy, you'll need dedication, education, skill development, financial understanding, networking, mentorship, and a passion for helping others.

Top 3 Resources Used:

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) - www.ciachef.edu
American Psychological Association (APA) - www.apa.org
Small Business Administration (SBA) - www.sba.gov

May you be blessed abundantly!
James Constantine.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, James Constantine! Charlotte
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Donna’s Answer

It's a delight to come across your query, as I too share your passion for home baking. Nowadays, the art of baking at home is gaining significant popularity. The joy of baking is unmatched, and it certainly brings a smile to those you bake for. If you're considering broadening your horizons, a great starting point is to bake for your loved ones.

In addition, it would be beneficial to familiarize yourself with the Cottage Laws applicable in your state and locality. These laws are designed to enable home bakers like you to generate income. It's crucial to adhere to the rules and guidelines outlined in these laws. There are certain restrictions on ingredients and specific requirements for your baking space.

The potential of home baking is immense. Some individuals have even managed to earn a living by baking from the comfort of their homes. I wholeheartedly wish you immense success in this exciting endeavor.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for taking the time to help. Charlotte
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jerome’s Answer

Depending on where you live, you may be able to make and sell certain baked goods from your home. If so, you could start an Instagram for the business and start building a customer base and a following.

There are groups like NFTE which will work with you to develop a business plan and offer mentorship. If not that group, there are many groups that support entrepreneurship. That would be my advice
Thank you comment icon I appreciate your support, Jerome Charlotte
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Myra’s Answer

Consider reaching out to your school or local community to inquire about setting up a booth to showcase your baked goods at an upcoming event.

Encourage your family to highlight your pastries during social gatherings or visits to friends and relatives. Invest in affordable plastic wrap and design a sticker to label your pastries, or opt for a budget-friendly print of your pastry name or logo.

Photograph the baked goods you're most proud of and ask your friends and family for their opinions on the most delicious treats.

To learn more about launching a new business and to find a mentor, consider visiting a SCORE location (https://www.score.org/).
Thank you comment icon I appreciate you taking the time to answer this. Charlotte
0