Danny Godinez-Martin is an independent and thoughtful intern with a keen interest in exploring various fields, including cooking. Though he has aspirations to become an architect, he values the opportunity to gain diverse skills through the Sprouts Chef Training program. Danny finds inspiration in his mother, who works night shifts but still makes time to create delicious meals for the family. He admires her dedication and has taken on responsibilities at home, such as preparing breakfast for his sister in the mornings. Wanting to expand not only his personal skill but what he could cook for his sister he found Sprouts. Danny was placed under the insightful guise of Chef Mark Dommen at One Market Restaurant.  

Cooking is relatively new to Danny, but his curiosity and determination shine through. Starting with a month-long cooking club that taught him the basics, he has since progressed significantly. During his internship, he’s mastered a variety of skills, from finely chopping ingredients to creating dishes like pasta sauce and grilled onions. One of his proudest achievements was learning how to use a fryer, an experience that boosted his confidence and inspired him to experiment with new recipes, such as cauliflower soup for his family. He was also very proud of himself for being able to memorize the sauces that he made in the restaurant and recreate them at home. 

Danny’s journey in the kitchen has taught him the value of collaboration and seeking guidance—skills that he initially struggled with but has embraced over time. His chef mentors, including Chef Mark and Marcos, have been instrumental in providing feedback and demonstrations, fostering a supportive learning environment. Danny has found the repetitive tasks in the kitchen to be calming, providing moments of reflection and growth.

Music, family, and friends are Danny’s main sources of comfort and motivation. His social anxiety has lessened through his interactions in the program, teaching him that people are often willing to help and collaborate. Danny’s favorite album right now is Die Lit by Playboi Carti, a reflection of his laid-back yet introspective personality. For Danny, this internship has been more than a culinary experience—it’s a journey of self-improvement, skill-building, and stepping outside his comfort zone. He looks forward to applying what he’s learned, not just in cooking but also in architecture and other areas of life.

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