Holly Dunstan always knew she had a passion for cooking and connecting with people. Her first job in a small, independent coffee shop sparked a dream she couldn’t ignore – to one day run her own business. So when it came time to choose between sixth form and college, the decision was clear. College felt like the right next step to turn her passion into something real.
In her first year, Holly enrolled on a Level 2 Professional Cookery course at City College Plymouth. Her lecturer quickly became a huge source of inspiration, giving Holly the confidence and motivation to believe in herself.
By the end of that first year, Holly knew she was on the right path. In her second year, she pushed herself even further, taking on both a front of house course and a patisserie course – options made possible by the College’s flexibility and support. Holly gained a wide range of skills and experiences that she felt gave her a head start in the industry.
Holly says: “College was the best decision I could have made. The support from my lecturers helped shape me not only as a student, but also as a future business owner. From extra help with costings and hygiene paperwork to career advice and confidence-building, the support went far beyond the classroom.”
“I wouldn’t have the knowledge I do now if it wasn’t for my lecturers,” Holly explained. “They taught me skills that weren’t even part of the curriculum, but were crucial for setting up my business. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
With the solid foundation she built at the College, Holly felt ready to take the leap into business. She launched ‘Mocha and Munchies,’ starting with a counter in Derriford where she sold her own cakes, bakes, and coffee. Co-owning the venture gave her a great starting point and allowed her to learn the ropes while still having some support.
But now, she’s ready for her next chapter. Holly is converting a van into a mobile coffee, cake, and sandwich shop – a project she’s managing alongside her full-time work. Her goal is to serve parents, teachers, and children at school drop-offs and pick-ups, as well as reach customers at local business parks and family-friendly areas.
“This is my new venture for the next few years and I’m going all in,” Holly said. “I’m really excited for the next steps and I know I’ll put everything into making it a success.”
Although the long hours and hard work can be tough, Holly is proud of what she’s achieved so far. Her motivation comes from the satisfaction of building something she loves, knowing that every bit of effort brings her closer to her dream.
For current students thinking about starting their own business, her advice is clear: take every opportunity and go all in.
From college student to coffee entrepreneur, Holly is proof that with determination, passion, and the right support, dreams really can become reality.
