MasterChef Junior interview: Sydney ‘Syd’ Neuser talks show experience

Tonight on MasterChef Junior, you are going to get a chance to see Sydney “Syd” Neuser and several other contestants compete for a show to re-enter the kitchen … but before we get around to that, why not stop in and hear her discuss the overall experience to date? We spoke with Syd recently via email about her favorite experiences and also some advice that she received from the judges.

Remember that if you want to preview Thursday’s episode further, we’ve got a sneak peek for it up now over at the link here. Without waiting any further, let’s get to the interview!

CarterMatt – What made you want to be a part of MasterChef Junior?

Sydney “Syd” Neuser – I love to watch the show every season it’s been on, and I like cooking at home. When we saw open call auditions in Chicago we thought, why not?! And possibly getting to meet Chef Ramsay, one of my favorite celebrities, was just one more reason to go for it.

Looking back at the competition, is there one part of it that stands out as a favorite?

My favorite thing in the whole experience was getting to know all the other kids. It was so fun making new friends with people who share my interests and I’m happy we are still in touch. As far as the show goes, I really liked the team challenge cooking with the first responders. Even though my team lost, it was a great kitchen experience.

Was it fun doing the blow-torch challenge, or a little scary because you were cooking with something a little bit different?

It was more on the fun side. I had used a torch at home on creme brulee and to sear steak, but I decided to try something different.  Unfortunately it didn’t work out for me, but all good chefs stretch themselves to try new things. I bought one when I got home and have used it quite a bit. I never realized what a handy tool it can be!

What sort of advice did the judges have for you after being eliminated?

They all said not to give up and keep cooking. Of course I was going to do that anyway because I love doing it, but hearing it from three amazing professional chefs felt pretty great.

Finally, we saw in the preview that some contestants could have a shot to return to the kitchen. What would it mean for you to be back?

If I earned my way back into the kitchen it would be so amazing.  I would have to work extra hard to prove I deserved a second chance.  Every junior chef eliminated since the top 40 went home because of one bad day…..it could happen to anyone. We all deserve that chance to show we can do it. I’m ready for the challenge.

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Thanks to Syd for her time! We’ll have our review of the next new episode online in the coming days over at the link here. (Photo: Fox.)