Cosmetology Student Success Story: Heather Sutherland

About Heather Sutherland

Heather, a FP from our cosmetology program in Mount Vernon, challenges herself with this beautiful color placement.

Before Heather entered the beauty industry, she was an up-and-coming glass blowing artist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. While earning her MA and MFA in glass art Heather was also beginning to dabble in all things beautiful. “Originally I moved to the area due to its internationally known craft program. I was busy working on my art practice, working with other artists.” However, like so many during the Pandemic shut down, “I lost everything and realized I needed to find a more stable career without sacrificing my creativity. Looking to my art I saw the thing that made most sense; helping others and the glitz & glam!!”

Making the switch in careers doesn’t come easily so we asked Heather why she chose Cosmetology. “I enjoy working with clients to achieve their goals. Going to the salon to take care of yourself or express yourself has an amazing effect on people.” It is in that moment Heather says she can see the clients’ confidence shine. It’s the best feeling!

One of Heather’s specialties thus far is her avant garde updo’s.

The Evergreen Experience

As a new student it can feel like you are on a raft navigating a fast-moving river, but Heather tapped in to her new “supportive colleagues and the awesome instructors that give all the knowledge, hugs and high fives” when needed. When digging into the curriculum the area most helpful to Heather was (believe it or not) perms! She says, “it is tedious, and others might not agree but, perms are an amazing practice in sectioning, slicing and working on fine motor skills.”

Taking advantage of her new opportunity at Mt. Vernon-Evergreen Beauty College, Heather found herself immersed in the area and school! “I love the Mount Vernon area. I was excited about the college after hearing about the on-floor training and the wide swath of directions you can take your degree.” She quickly found her “strengths are color, blonding and Avant Garde up styles.” Combining her background in art with Cosmetology, Heather has quickly built-up skills creating her own unique style that she brings to each client.

Combining artistry with professionalism can be challenging. We asked Heather what is it that sets her apart from other stylists and she said, “What sets my approach to hair apart is my process and attention to detail. When given an opportunity to be creative in the chair and can really prepare, I love to map out color and style through sketches and samples. My addiction to knowledge provides me with a wide swathe of processes and new fresh ideas. I will do my best to reach a client wishes within the parameters of hair healthy hair and desired outcome and will take the time with the client to discuss options and the steps to reach the best possible outcome – sometimes that’s a journey.” Shares Heather. “One of the most exciting parts of being a stylist is not just the creative outlet but also collaborating with the client and being part of the transformation.”

A multi dimensional green ombre created by Ms. Heather Sutherland

The Next Step

“Looking forward to graduation and licensure can feel joyful and stressful at the same time. Heather finds this part of schooling “exciting.” We asked her what she planned to do after graduation. “I am not sure yet, but that is the exciting part. The next step is to get out into the salons, go to hair shows, network and see where I fit into the industry. I am extremely excited about intertwining my art and cosmetology practices.” When pressed to share advice for future students Heather said, “Absorb as much as you can, be proactive in your educational experience -this is the building block of your future, be kind to yourself and take all the complicated processes while you have someone there to support you and cheer you on!” We here at EBC wish Heather the very best as she inches closer to graduation and the wonderful discovery of Cosmetology.

Heather is set to graduate in February of 2022. And if you are interested in following Heather for the rest of her program, you can check her out on Instagram: @powderroom_confessions. Congratulations Ms. Heather! Evergreen looks forward to seeing your dreams flourish.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the beauty industry you can check out our different programs or Schedule a Virtual Tour, at one of our six locations: Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Everett, North Seattle, Renton, and Yakima.