Success Story: Jason Pereira, Private Chef and Professional MBA Student

Jason was born and raised in the Caribbean, on the island of St. Kitts. He grew up fishing, spearfishing and foraging for his father's restaurant on the island. While receiving an undergraduate degree in International Business from FAU, Jason learned the art of sushi making from Simon at Sushi Simon. Additionally, he completed a brief stint at 32 East in Delray Beach, Florida. With his sights set on New York, Jason attended the Culinary Institute of America and graduated at the top of his class. After graduation, he worked under three-Michelin-star chef Daniel Humm to help open a restaurant in New York City.

Enrolled in the Professional MBA International Business program in January 2016, Jason is inspired to combine his undergraduate business background with his experience and passion for food and cooking. Aside from being a full-time student and working as a private chef with high-profile clients, he is developing an organic farm in St. Kitts, with a tree top bar and tapas concept.

Jason is also in the process of creating a company to coordinate chefs with opportunities to cater private events. "I want to build careers for others. I want everyone to be successful, maintain the integrity of a product or business, and be true to yourself." Jason is an ideal example of balancing a career and his passion for culinary arts, all while pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree in just 23 months.