The announcement of the new winners for the Sammic Scholarships for BasqueStage is coming so soon. Our candidates are on the edge of their seats, tweeting and blogging about just how anxious they are! And rightfully so…they’ve spent hours compiling some really incredible applications.
Among the requirements was: essay, resume, a blogpost with recipe and food photos, and a video. We’ve compiled the candidates videos and social media information for you to review here.
Check it out, and leave us a comment about who YOU think is most deserving of our new Top Chef and Rising Stars scholarships!
Bryan Pickel is an excellent candidate to train in Spain. He is creative and passionate about culinary arts and has a natural talent to present a beautiful and tasty dish. Bryan is your best man to send to Spain as he has an unquenchable thirst to learn as much as humanly possible about cooking technique and presentation. He will also be the best person to breathe life into cooking by adding new and unique ideas to old outdated dishes. Overall Bryan is the person that has the most talent and potential to make a huge impact on the cooking community.
Bryan Pickle has so much talent and is very creative. I believe that choosing this candidate would be beneficial to the program.
Only one person deserves to win this. The best chef I know.
Brian Pickel
Hi there! I met Bryan a month ago and I’d like to vote for him since he is very enthousiastic and passionate about cooking. Having an interest in cooking myself, I must say he was very inspiring to me to pursue an education her in the Netherlands.
Aside from this, I think for him this would be one of those life-changing experiences that he truly deserves. I got to know him as a very friendly person. Basque (and Europe) would really be a major step in his development, both in cooking and personal life.
Saludos de Amsterdam!
Justin Legasspi is the man! He has everything it takes and deserves this more than anyone out there!
Andreya Brownell Nightingale is one of the most deserving individuals that I have met. She is an extremely hard worker and has had a passion for cooking since she was very young. For her birthday when she was 8, she made, from scratch, pizza’s for her birthday guests. Being her Mother, I can truely say, I wish I was more like Andreya Brownell Nightingale in the precious way that she has about her. Andrey]a’s Father and I still get compliments on what a beautiful person she has turned out to be so far. I have the utmost faith and confidence in the fact that she will exceed your expectations for a Stage winner. Thank you, Erika Brownell
Bryan is incredibly talented and passionate, not to mention hard working and used to the demands of a professional kitchen. He deserves this opportunity to grow and develop!
I truly feel that Justin Legaspi is one to be deserving of the scholarships, being able to work with him hand in hand and also to witness the passion he has within himself through the creativity and creation of food has convinced me that he is one hard working man.
Bryan Pickel is the most deserving of the Top Chef and Rising Star scholarships. When I met Bryan, he was a barista in a small coffee shop in the little town of Tallahassee, Florida. There is an overwhelming pattern of people getting stuck in Tallahassee and never leaving. Over the few years I have known him, he has fought the odds and worked harder than anyone I know to make his dream of becoming a chef come true, and not just any chef – working in the Big Apple! He is so passionate and yearning to learn more. Please give him the opportunity to do so!
Andreya Nightingale is the top choice for these scholarships. She is a dedicated and passionate chef. She will surely bring a high level of enthusiasm and creativity to the program!
I feel that Susanne Santos deserves the Top Chef and Rising Star scholarships! She is the most passionate and creative chef I have ever met!!!
Susanne Santo is the most qualified chef to receive the scholarship, she is creative and driven, and is going to be a force in the culinary world!!
Lauren Everet has been working hard to get where she is today ever since she left home at 18, she cooks with passion and would do it 24/7 it it were possible. There’s no telling what she will be capable of if she were to get this opportunity, with her dishes being tweeted by judges such as Chef Dave Martin the signs of a hardworking and determined individual with a thirst for new and exciting things are all clear. I truly and honestly believe Lauren deserves this, thank you.
you should definitely pick Susy Santos, she changed her career completely to follow her dream of becoming a chef and she’s killing it! Right out of school started working at spice market in nyc never heard her complain. if you’ve read through her blog you can see that she travels far to get the right produce not just ur local market, she would be the type to go in combat boots and climbing gear to get the right produce if she has to (possible tv show), NOTHING BUT THE BEST! when it comes to her dishes. She’s soft hearted, strong minded, funny and very ambitions, and any opportunity presented to her she’s going at it with a game face, and giving it 110%. the top chef and raising star scholarship would not only feed hear fire to succeed but spread to everyone that comes in contact. she’s that motivational and inspiring.
Bryan Pickel should be the winner in this competition. He’s so enthusiastic and hard working and he has a real passion for the culinary arts.
Andreya Nightingale is an incredibly passionate and focused chef. As long as I’ve know her, she has exceeded any expectations placed upon her. She is not only a talented cook, but never fails to win the hearts of those with whom she works. I believe this is because she truly loves what she does. She brings with her not only a strong work ethic, but an aura of creative energy and enthusiasm that infects those around her. She would surely be a valuable addition to the program!
Brian Pickel is a committed to be the best chef that he can be! I know that if you give him an opportunity to learn and to be a part of this scholarship, he will magnify your program and by his success, you will be pleased and honored.
I have known Bran Pickel since he was a boy. Bryan has just a great love of not only cooking, but creating luscious food. It is my opinion the no one deserves opportunity more that he.
Bryan Pickel is an incredibly talented chef. Hardworking, and dedicated, his passion for cooking is incredible. I could not think of a more deserving chef to be given this opportunity. Bryan has a thirst for knowledge and new experiences, that make him a prime candidate for you to consider. He has an incredible enthusiasm in the kitchen, with a drive to learn all that he can.
Bryan Pickel has some of the most delicious food. I’m a real picky eater, but I will eat anything he makes. He handles food the way you should handle a woman, also tigers. One time he saved a panda. There might not be any pandas in Spain, but I’m sure if you can handle a panad, you can handle anything. The only thing that is better than his mustache, is his food…and his hugs.
If you desire dishes caressed with creativity, dressed with delicious flavors, and beautifully presented with a tasteful elegance, then Bryan Pickel’s creations are for you. He not only expresses himself in each dish he designs, he truly is an educated and enlightened individual. Not giving him this opportunity would be a disgusting waste.
PICKEL! First of all, he showed originality and passion, which is exactly the kind of thing you look for in a top chef or rising star. Secondly, I’d watch all his videos for that moustache alone. But also because he’d cook something amazing. Man has talent.
Bryan Pickel is a talented and motivated chef. He is devoted to his craft and deserves the chance to truly develop his talents into a powerful craft. Out of his many fine qualities, the one thing he lacks is wordly experience in the culinary realm. He is the applicant that would benefit the most from this opportunity.
I am truly proud of Bryan and all his accomplishments thus far. I expect him to have a long and successful career. Send this chef to Spain!
I would like to join in to appreciate Bryan’s work. He has made some of the most amazing food that I’ve ever eaten. He would be an excellent addition to the program! I also have a really great time watching his videos and find him really entertaining.
DANIEL ECHEVARRIA is deserving of this scholarship because he has great plans for the future of Basque food. His natural talent, undying charm, and his love for food set him apart from the usual, and that is why he deserves this chance to make an impression on the world. He is a fun, happy, intelligent young man that is eager to learn and equally eager to share his knowledge with others. He is a team player, a passionate foodie, and a fun person to be around. Thank you for reading–best of luck to everyone!
I wrote last night, but I don’t see my comment. Bryan Pickel is my choice! He showed originality and passion, which is something you would want in a Rising Star or Top Chef scholar. He’s also incredibly determined and has a work ethic that could put Lance Armstrong to shame.
I have known Bryan for over thirteen years and cannot think of a better suited person to receive this scholarship! He is dedicated, hard working, and has a fantastic personality that is evident in each of his endeavors. I am so proud of him and all that he has accomplished. Send him to Spain, he ha a bright future ahead is him and his full potential has not yet been reached!!
Pickel is the way to go! He has never made anything I wouldn’t eat and he had made some pretty crazy things. Not only is his food amazing but his presentation is just as good. He puts 200% into anything he makes. Plus he had an awesome personality and that funny mustache….make the right choice…..the Pickel choice!
Bryan Pickel is a very devoted chef and this would mean the world to him. He’s such a hard worker and is determined to be great! He should totally get this scholarship!
Bryan Pickel is a hard working, dedicated, incredibly intelligent young man who has a talent for creating delicious art. His food is original and creative and sending him to Spain would only further boost his abilities. Send him!
Bryan Pickel absolutely deserves to go to Spain to enhance his already impressive culinary skills. He is a hard worker and extremely enthusiastic about cooking. Everything he does he does 100%! You will not be sorry if you choose him!
Bryan Pickel is the chef to choose! His passion for culinary creativity is unsurpassed. He takes his work extremely seriously, and has a dedicated determination. You will NOT regret awarding him this scholarhip and dending him to Spain.
My vote goes to Bryan Pickle. In the time I have known Bryan, I have witnessed his uncanny ability to execute sensational dishes under pressure. He keeps his mental cool and focus under tough and difficult circumstances and is able to turn out consistent high quality. These attributes alongside having a true passion for the culinary arts makes Bryan a clear choice for the scholarship award.
I have known Bryan Pickel for a very long time. He has had struggles in his life but through it all it has made him stronger and more determined to secceed. I have tasted some of his expermintal reciepes and even tho I am more of a plain Jane and didn’t want to try it, it was very good!! He would be an excelent winner!
Susy Santos is the perfect candidate for this scholarship. She has had a passion and a knack for cooking since we were kids. Always learning in the kitchen and always excited about making people happy with her food. When she made her choice to change her career path to the culinary arts it made me so happy because I always knew that that is where she belonged. She is an amazingly talented chef and she’s only just begun. She is always striving to learn and to better herself in the kitchen. Whether it is trying new techniques or ingredients that most people have never heard of. Susy is always moving forward. This scholarship would mean the world to her and if anyone will take this opportunity and run with it, it’s her!
SUSANNE LUZ SANTOS! Best chef I’ve ever met. Give her any ingredient and she will turn it into the best thing you have ever eaten. She is most deserving and worthy for Basque Stage. Choose Susanne and you won’t regret it!!
Named after a preservation technique!! Bryan Pickel! I have eaten his food. It’s always delicious with a touch of craziness that always seems to bring its deliciousness to the next level. He is like a mad scientist of the kitchen. In all seriousness he knows what’s up. SUCH a hard working individual. And a nice guy. I miss his steaks! Skirt steak perfection. And the most beautiful presentations. Hope to see you in Spain, Señor Pepinillo!
Bryan Pickel is my choice! Not only is he talented in the kitchen and incredibly charming, he also has an art for the café! If he isn’t satisfied with his foam, he’ll make another batch! He is a genius. A well deserving man. And a talented chef! He is a great candidate for this scholarship.
I have known Susanne Santos since she was a little girl. I have always admired her positive attitude and confidence in everything that she has tackled. Susanne has always had a passion for food. She is Portuguese so food is a huge cultural staple in her life. Its something that consistently brings family together and centers them at one table for the love of being with one another. This has always been important for Susanne and is an important part of her roots. I am so honored to have the opportunity to leave kind words on her behalf because I can’t think of anyone else that deserves them more. When she first told me that she was going to study the culinary arts I was actually concerned for her. My father has been a chef for over 30 years and I’ve seen first hand how much hard work goes into this career and how exhausted he has been and i didnt want that for her. But Susanne has a passion for food that I’ve never seen in another young person her age, and nothing was going to stop her from spending her life doing what she loves most. She completely changed her career path to follow a dream and has created beautiful and inspiring dishes that has left everyone that knows her in awe and everyone that tries it wanting more!! She has a strong belief in using the best ingredients in her dishes and combining unique ingredients to leave people asking “wow, what is in this this, it is amazing!” She is the perfect candidate not only because of her strong skills and techniques in the kitchen, but more importantly because of her amazing personality. Every person that has met Susnne sees something inspiring and unique in her. She is dedicated, determined, and really personally cares about every dish she makes because she knows it is going to be the cornerstone that brings loved ones together. She has a thirst to learn as much as she can and be the best in her profession. I promise that you won’t regret choosing Susanne for this amazing opportunity!!!!
SUSY SANTOS is absolutely without a doubt the most talented and passionate chef that I know. Her desire to cook began when she was very little and she has completely put 100% of this passion into each and every one of the dishes she creates. Not only is her talent unsurpassed, but her sunny personality makes her a great person to work with in the collaborative setting of a kitchen. She loves bringing ppl together through her love of food and NEVER dissapoonts woth the meals she creates. Tasting her food is a rare culinary experience. Working in New York city, you have to be the best to make it as a chef and Susy is simply the best. Given the opportunity to go an study in Spain I can only imagine how wosrrful it would be for her to gain more experience and help futhrr fpster her unique skills. Pick Susy and you will have a rare opportunity to see great become legendary!
I know that the results are getting ready to be published, but I would still like to throw out a recommendation for Bryan Pickel. A hard working individual with a lot of creativity. I think winning this scholarship would allow him to grow beyond an excellence he already has mastered that many chefs wish they could attain.
Select Bryan Pickel.
Susanne Santos is a passionate, creative, innovative chef and possesses raw talent that can’t be taught. Susy can turn an ordinary dish into something extraordinary. I have personally been to several farmers markets with Susy and she comes alive at the sight of fresh produce and natural ingredients. She is conastantly coming up with new ideas and ways to enhance her practice and I can’t wait to see where her cooking senses will take her. Susy will thrive if she is chosen to be the finalist. Susy will not only improve her own talents but also inspire and motivate all who have the privilege of working with her. There’s no better choice!! Susy santos!!!
Susy Santos is a very deserving candidate for this scholarship opportunity for a very simple reason: PASSION! The wonderful Oprah said in her final show, “find your passion,” well Susy has found hers. It not only shows in her personality but in her craft as well. Susy has changed her entire life around to pursue her passion in the culinary field. Her talent emerges with great passion in every single one of her dishes, despite how simple or how challenging they can be. Suzy has managed to combine the most simple of ingredients and create a gourmet dish with steps a novice chef can follow with ease and confidence. This is something not every chef can do or can pull off successfully.
Susy’s culture and background also had a great influence on her passion. She comes from a very close family, whose culture revolves around food. It really is no surprise she has this amazing gift of creating amazing dishes with amazing taste, only leaving the consumer wanting for more.
There is something to be said about someone whose passion oozes from everything they create. Suzy has traveled a long and difficult road to be where she is today. Please consider Suzy for this wonderful opportunity as words cannot describe how deserving Suzy is of this scholarship.