Melissa d’Arabian became a well-known figure after she won season five of “Food Network Star.” She hosted “Ten Dollar Dinners” for seven successful seasons, connecting with busy parents everywhere. Known for her practical recipes that often featured soy sauce as a secret ingredient, Melissa emphasized family and budgeting. However, in April 2023, she surprised many by announcing her enrollment at Columbia University for a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Management and Producing, as she moved to New York City.
Before this big shift, Melissa’s career included web series on Food Network and three published cookbooks: “Ten Dollar Dinners,” “Supermarket Healthy,” and “Tasting Grace.” On Instagram, she explained her choice: “I can take all that with me into my next era; theatre is where I feel most alive.”
Life as a Student in New York City
In September 2023, Melissa shared a sweet post on Instagram, showcasing her dorm and celebrating her “first day of school, 49th grade.” Her social media has been a window into her student life. She produced an off-Broadway musical, celebrated the Chinese New Year with classmates, and completed a fellowship at La Jolla Playhouse.
Now in her third year, she’s close to graduating. In a January 2026 Instagram post, she reflected on her journey back to school. “Going back to school is inherently an optimistic act,” she noted. This resonates with many adult learners today: a Pew Research study from 2022 found that 66% of adults view education as a path to personal growth and fulfillment.
Melissa’s transition highlights a growing trend where people shift careers later in life. Many are pursuing their passions after years in other fields, especially in creative industries. This mirrors a wider cultural shift toward valuing lifelong learning and adaptability. For Melissa, theatre was the spark that reignited her passion. As she balances school and family life, her journey encourages others to explore new horizons, no matter where they are in life.
