Before coming to the United States, I didn’t know much about what life here would be like what to expect. Honestly, I was nervous—especially about how expensive things might be in San Francisco. I worried I wouldn’t be able to survive without the support of my family.
But after being here for more than six months, I can tell you that you’re compensated well enough to live comfortably and enjoy everything this experience has to offer.
Sarvesh Preparing Fresh Vegetables for the Dinner Service
My name is Sarvesh, and I’m currently undergoing culinary training at the renowned Spruce Restaurant. I have the privilege of working under the expert guidance of Chef Nick Vollono, whose mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my skills and perspective in the kitchen.
When it comes to my culinary training, the experience at Spruce has been nothing short of amazing. Everything was so new to me, as back in India, we prepared entirely different kinds of food. There were so many ingredients I had never even seen before! However, the way everything is structured and organized in the kitchen, along with the kindness and support of my colleagues, made the transition much easier. Within just a week, I was able to manage an entire station on my own. The people I trained with were so helpful and welcoming that it hardly felt like work. Yes, things can get intense during service, but that’s where the excitement comes in—it’s all part of the learning process.
Every Saturday, I volunteer at the local Ferry Plaza Farmers Market , assisting one of our restaurant’s vendors. This isn’t just about helping out—it’s a meaningful way to support local agriculture and support the farm-to-table movement. Through this, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for sustainable eating and cooking practices while actively contributing to our community’s well-being.
The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the farmers’ market creates the perfect setting for building connections. I’ve had the opportunity to engage with chefs from other restaurants, local farmers, artisans, and even customers who are passionate about food. These interactions offer unique insights into the journey of food—from farm to table—and make me feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself.
Volunteering here gives me a profound sense of fulfillment. It’s not just about promoting sustainability but also about fostering relationships that celebrate the importance of community, culture, and quality food. It’s become a highlight of my week and a valuable addition to my culinary journey.
Sarvesh Volunteering for Lonely Mountain Fram at Ferry Plaza Framers Market
Looking back, I think everyone should have an internship in the U.S. at least once. The culture is so diverse, and there’s so much to learn—not just about food, but about people and their stories. If you’re passionate about your career, you’ll love the chance to travel to different cities, try new things, and experience how unique each place is.
Visiting NYC on the Brooklyn Bridge
This year has been one of the best of my life. I’ve met incredible people, made lifelong friends, cooked dishes I never thought I could, and traveled to places I’d only dreamed about. It’s been an unforgettable journey that’s changed me both personally and professionally. The lessons, memories, and connections I’ve made will stay with me forever.