After taking numerous classes in biophysics, organic chemistry, foreign policy and writing seminars, who wouldn't want to take a fun class? Of course, the classes for our majors are supposed to be a joy to take, but what joy do many of us participate in to get away from classes? Drinking! Why not combine the two wonderful aspects of life at Hopkins into one? The perfect fusion of both - classes in bartending. Surprisingly enough, there are two organizations that offer these classes in the Baltimore area. You can learn enough to throw a kick-ass party, or you can pursue a job in bartending after only a few weeks of training.
University Bartending is a program that is affiliated throughout the country. They claim, "At University Bartending we believe that bartending is quite possibly the best part-time job for a college student. It's sociable, it's fun, the work hours don't conflict with your classes and it can be very lucrative."
Some of you are probably thinking right now, great, I want to learn how to mix drinks, but I'm only 18. I'm not even legally able to drink. I have some fabulous news for you - there is no age limit to take any of the classes they offer, and legally, you only have to be 18 years or older to bartend and serve alcohol. Bottoms up.
There are two types of courses offered by University Bartending: the Basic course, designed for students who just want to learn for fun, and the Professional course, designed for students interested in working as a bartender. In the Basic course, you learn the different types of glassware, tools of the bar, garnishes, how to set up and break down a bar, how to pour and mix correctly and over 100 drink recipes. Sound good? It gets even better! The course includes a hands-on pouring lab and a free refresher class. The Professional course includes everything in the Basic course, along with a few extras. After completing the course, you receive your BAR code certification and a Letter of Recommendation to help get job placement.
University Bartending is known for its cheap rates, and lucky for us, the classes aren't that far from campus. The closest is in Room 328, The Commons, University of Maryland-Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle. There is also a branch at Loyola University. A Basic course costs $149 and a Professional course rings in at $179. The latest classes started April 12 so it's probably past time to register late, but to get more information on when the next classes begin and for how long they run, sign up on their Web site at http://www.americanbartenders.org/schools_frame.htm
Another program in our area that offers classes on bartending is the Maryland Bartending Academy. They offer one course that is designed to filter the student directly into immediate job placement, part or full time. The course is a two week, 45 hour program. Day classes run from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and evening classes run from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The classes begin each Monday and end on the second Friday of every two weeks of the year, with a few exceptions. It sounds pretty hard core, but the MBA guarantees professional training, a diploma from the MBA, a wallet-size certification card and job-placement assistance. Not sure if this is for you? Attend a free intro class. Classes are offered at 209 New Jersey Avenue, NE., Glen Burnie, MD, 21060. For more information on prices and registration, call 410-787-0020, or visit their Web site at http://www.marylandbartending.com.
These classes seem like the perfect way to have fun, learn how to throw parties and gain a possible part-time job all in one. The classes are close and not obscenely expensive considering how much we pay here just to take a class. Either way, it's something all of us should at least be somewhat educated in, right? So register today, and don't forget to give us little people free drinks at your bar.
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