I am one course shy of my associates in culinary arts! It's a computer-based class, and I'm just not in the mood.

Many community colleges offer culinary arts degrees and certificates. If you just want pastry, it would be a one-year certificate. Lots of internship and paid apprenticeship hours would help, too. The more experience, the better.

Culinary schools also have courses, but they are much more expensive.

The 2-year degree includes cooking and hospitality management and serving and all that stuff. If you don't want it, don't waste your time.

Make an appointment with a counselor at your local community college soon and you can start in September! Pastry is fun, and delicious and the ingredients are measured differently than all other cooking. You'll enjoy it.

Good luck!