Discussions on the group "Chris Kohatsu's Classroom on NYVS"

If you've ever been to a "cattle call" audition, you know your job is to catch the eye of a producer, casting director, or network executive. That's exactly what I sought to do when I appeared for an open audition for the Home Shopping Network. They posted an opening for a culinary expert, and I was intent on getting it. I watched hours of culinary presentations. I studied the actions of their hosts. I learned the lingo. And I practiced, practiced, practiced. Days leading up to the audition, I turned on my camera and recorded myself. The audition itself was challenging -- no cooking, but you should bring an original recipe that highlights your abilities. Bring all your own tools and dishes. Speak to the camera. I knew that plenty of chefs were going to show up with garde manger (cold plate) ideas. I decided to be creative with my audition. Instead of doing a dish, I decided to create a lesson, a time saving tip for at home cooks. I created a "7 Second Icing" which was really a drippy white glaze made from confectioner's sugar, vanilla and milk. I whisked it all together in a bowl then started dressing up cakes, cupcakes, donuts, brownies and cookies. I had all kinds of colorful plates and napkins to show off my idea. I told the camera that anyone could do this and that they should do it right now. Within weeks, I was invited back for a second audition and later for a formal interview. And that, my friends, was how it all started. There's nothing like hard work, determination and a little creativity to get things started! 2 :