For most, the acronym “FOMO” sparks a fear of missing out. But for Berkeley College alumna Tinamarie Giraud, it stands for something far more powerful: “Faith Over My Obstacles.”
Giraud, the entrepreneur behind the Chef FOMO food truck, has returned to her home campus in Woodbridge to serve more than just meals. Through a weekly partnership with the college, she is providing students with a fusion of Hispanic, Caribbean and Asian-inspired flavors, while serving as a living example of where a Berkeley degree can lead.
Giraud’s journey at Berkeley College began decades ago. She graduated in 2004 with an Associate in Applied Science in Business Administration – Marketing. During her time as a student, she was a standout leader, serving as President of the Student Government Association, a member of the National Honor Society, and a student worker in the Admissions department.
“Berkeley College taught me the importance of planning,” Giraud said. “This is where I learned the importance of branding. Most importantly, I learned to look at myself as a brand.”
After earning her associate degree, Giraud continued her education, eventually obtaining both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Today, she balances her entrepreneurial passion with a career as a Management Analyst for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Chef FOMO food truck is a culmination of Giraud’s heritage and culinary experimentation. The menu features a unique fusion of Hispanic and Caribbean dishes with a hint of Asian teriyaki, specializing in:
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Signature Burritos and Tacos
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Seasoned Wings
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The Birria Beef Bowl
To perfect her recipes, Giraud turned her home kitchen into a “science lab,” using her three children—ages 8, 14, and 16—as her primary taste-testers. Her culinary roots, however, go back to her grandmother and uncle, who instilled in her the philosophy that “nothing leaves the kitchen without being seasoned.”
For Jennifer DeJesus, campus operating officer at Berkeley College in Woodbridge, having Giraud on campus is about more than just food.
“Giraud is a testament to the power of education, perseverance, and hard work,” said DeJesus. “She inspires our students by showing them that they can achieve their dreams when they work hard and believe in themselves.”
For Giraud, being back on campus feels like a full-circle moment. By sharing her “Faith Over My Obstacles” mantra, she hopes to encourage current students to navigate their own hurdles with grit and resilience.
