I'm 20 years old, and grew up with my mother, who (and I know everyone says this but it's true) is the best cook I've ever seen. I picked up little tips and things from her over the years, however I didn't start really actively cooking until I got into college. I consider myself a "good" cook- I can follow ANY recipe and have it turn out well, but I can't really improvise yet. Chocolate. Anything chocolate, I love to cook it. I also love anything that is pretty easy to make but makes the guests go "WOW!". Christmas cookies! Ever since I was small I've helped my mom make any number of different kinds of cookies and candies. We probably make at least 12 varieties every year. Also, my mom is a stellar hostess and I picked that up from her. Dinner parties, tea parties, wine and cheese get togethers- I love them all. I'd have to say that last year's holiday party is my greatest cooking triumph. Two roast chickens, three kinds of vegetables, cheese and crackers, homemade bread, mulled cider, fruit, and four different desserts. All on a college student budget. As of yet I haven't had any really bad tragedies. I think my worst was making stir fry without any corn starch, but it was still tasty. Just a bit soupy.