As some you know, I'm currently training to be a chef. In my class of 12, I'm the only vegetarian. My tutor likes to make jokes, and even though he's not trying to be cruel, I'm sick of the hassling by him and my other class mates. His teasing almost encourages the others. It was funny the first coulple of weeks, but now a few months later it's annoying, not funny and it makes me feel left out in a way as well. The vegetarianism isn't a big deal to me, and I wish they would just accept it and grow up. I know I should just tell them where to go, but I'm just tired of the jokes, and I don't feel like I should have to make witty comebacks to get them off my back.

I really don't know what to do. My tutor is nice, it's just the teasing that gets to me. I don't really think I can talk to him about it- cause he may not take me seriously in a way. I could always talk to someone who is in charge of the programme. Any suggestions would be great :) Thankyou :)

Well you're going to have to talk to him, that's the only way he's going to know that it bothers you.

Making witty comments might actually encourage it, because people & your tutor might feel like you're taking it all lightly and actually enjoy the banter.

Talk to your tutor, and be sure to say "I" statements -- When my eating habits are challenged, I feel _____. When I am teased in class, it makes me feel ______. etc. Ask your tutor nicely to stop the teasing, as it makes you feel left out of the class. or segregated in a way. Validate the teacher, saying that you appreciate that he was just trying to lighten up the class, or be silly, or whatever, but say that it does actually hurt a bit.

Oregon Amy is correct.

You could also one-up the prof. or whatever and let him know that just as chefs/restaurants are now catering more towards those seeking "kosher" foods and those with various food-alleriges, many places are also starting to cater to veg*ns. I've read several culinary magazine articles addressing just this.

If he were really all-knowing and Mr. Cool like it seems he thinks he does, he'd know that while vegetarians may be "uncommon" in cooking schools, we're not all that uncommon in restaurants :p

Hang in there and good luck!

:nigel: Cheers!

Well you're going to have to talk to him, that's the only way he's going to know that it bothers you.

Making witty comments might actually encourage it, because people & your tutor might feel like you're taking it all lightly and actually enjoy the banter.

Talk to your tutor, and be sure to say "I" statements -- When my eating habits are challenged, I feel _____. When I am teased in class, it makes me feel ______. etc. Ask your tutor nicely to stop the teasing, as it makes you feel left out of the class. or segregated in a way. Validate the teacher, saying that you appreciate that he was just trying to lighten up the class, or be silly, or whatever, but say that it does actually hurt a bit.

:lovesign:

The Rev

I would talk to him first. Try to be as nice as you can about it, just tell him it makes you feel uncomfortable being singled out and that you don't really appreciate it. See how he responds. If he's an adult hopefully :rolleyes: he'll respect that. If not you can imply (I wouldn't make threats) that you may need to go to someone above him.

Or you could go after him with a cleaver. :D

Amy is 100% right as always