Domanique Fitts whipped eggs as Kyonna Salyer chopped cucumbers.
They both prepared salads at the SkillsUSA State Culinary Competition hosted by Virginia College on Monday.
"The best part is when you finish and you know you've done your best," said Salyer of Kingsport, Tenn.
They were among 15 high school students competing Monday in culinary categories. About 11 students will compete today in baking.
Most students came from across the state. Only two came from this area - Daisa Huff of Ooltewah High School and Gabe Flowers of Bradley Central High School.
The winners of each category will receive a $2,250 scholarship to Culinard, the Culinary Institute of Virginia College, and they will move on to represent the state at the SkillsUSA national competition in Louisville, Ky., where the winner can earn more scholarships.
"Cooking keeps me focused in school," Fitts said.
"Start now. Go, go, go" said professional chef Nick Thiers as he passed students preparing their salads. They had about 20 minutes to make a chicken salad and homemade dressing.
Another chef sang a line from Guns 'N' Roses' "Welcome to The Jungle," as judges watched to make sure students followed proper techniques for preparing food.
"It's all about technique," said Chef Bill Wright, lead culinary instructor at Culinard.
Connie Jenkins of Chattanooga and Marsi Luera of Dayton sat relaxed in the back of the kitchen keeping track of time.
At other times, the action in the kitchen was so intense that the only sounds to be heard were the sizzle of cooking chicken and clanging of bowls and pans.
Asked why students and teachers come from across the state to participate, culinary arts teacher Craig Cox of Mountain City in Johnson County said students come for opportunity.
Mountain City students are from one of the lowest income communities in the state, but winning the competition enables a student to attend culinary arts school, Cox said.
"Why all that expense and time and lack of sleep at night?" he asked. "Because this gives an opportunity. The [national] winner gets a scholarship."
Sharon Cox attended the competition as Mikayla Fletcher's chaperone. Fletcher competes in the baking competition today.
"You can see it's nerve-wracking for them. Bless their hearts," said Sharon Cox while watching the competition from the hallway.
Fletcher said she feels confident she will place in the restaurant services competition today.
Contact staff writer Yolanda Putman at yputman@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6431.