Hmmm...I'm 19. I attend Penn State University (WE ARE!) and I love every moment of it. As far as my kitchen activities go, I've been cooking since I was old enough to be a tag-along to my father in the kitchen. I love to cook, but I have a special place in my heart for all things sweet. I love to try out new cake, cookie and pie recipes, and I usually test my experiments out on my friends. I'm also well into volunteer work, and I usually supply a lot of bake sale fundraisers. My health is a major concern of mine, so cooking wholesome, nutrient-rich foods is something I strive for. However, the occasional indulgence is mandatory--you only live once, right? My father and I always cook together. Even though my parents are split up now, I'm closer than ever with my Dad. I always hang out in the kitchen while he's cooking, he's an amazing chef, it's truly remarkable the things he can create. I'm working to achieve that level of creativity. Introducing my family to meat replacements veggie burgers, tofu, seitan. Also, the day my Nonna let me look at her recipe book is one that I'll never forget. Her panzanella, biscotti and mushroom pizza are to die for! I was in a pinch for fresh garlic one time that I made spaghetti squash, so I used the powder. Well, the top popped off, and the whole contents dumped onto my dinner. What a lesson to learn! Fresh is ALWAYS best!