AUSTIN—Students at the Texas School for the Deaf are getting real-life culinary experience.
They are partnering with the executive chef at the Hilton Austin Downtown to put on a multi-course banquet. It's all in preparation for the school's 10th annual Diamond Chefs Gala.
This year's theme is Under the Big Top.
"I always believe as a chef that you can train great attitude, so I see great attitude, I see talent," said John De Souza, Hilton Executive Chef.
Niang Thang is a senior at the Texas School for the Deaf. In addition to regular high school studies, she's been hard at work taking culinary classes. Now Thang is training in the Hilton Austin Downtown's kitchen.
"This is my first time, I was a little awkward initially and everybody's so friendly and helpful, if we don't understand we'll ask them for help," said Thang.
For some of the students, cooking runs in the family.
"I love Puerto Rican food, family's Puerto Rican and I've learned how to make Puerto Rican food and so I definitely have that advantage of Puerto Rican style," said Zaid Cruz, Texas School for the Deaf Senior.
Proceeds from Friday night’s event support the students at the Texas School for the Deaf and other deaf children throughout the state. Though tickets are already sold out, it is an annual event, so people can always mark their calendar for next year.