Hair Design Student Success Story: Michelle Lobaugh

About Michelle Lobaugh

Living through a pandemic has been a challenge to us all. Some have lost their jobs, quit working due to childcare, have had to close businesses, and much more. It can be a challenge to find that positive outlook out of a difficult situation. However, for Ms. Michelle, she was able to use it to follow her dreams. “I chose the Hair Design program because I have always been interested in hair; everything from fashion colors, to special occasion styles, to fun haircuts. In the last few years, I have been commissioned for weddings and event styles, so I definitely feel like I have a eye for it already. Prior to enrolling in school though, I had been working for over 7 years at corporate jobs, and was laid off in the midst of the pandemic. With the 40 hour a week work schedule, I had no time to even entertain schooling. A silver lining to the recent pandemic, I was able to take the time to pursue my passion.” Michelle Lobaugh states.

Wanting to ensure she is set up for success, Michelle began to look into colleges. We asked her why she chose Evergreen, Michelle replied, “Honestly, I chose EBC for two reasons. I had a friend who spoke highly of the EBC; especially the Mount Vernon campus, and how much she loved her class and instructors. When I did reach out and contacted the school to enroll I didn’t feel pressured, but encouraged to begin my new path to success.”

The Evergreen Experience

Ms. Michelle has only been a student at Evergreen for a few months and is already receiving awards and enhancing her skills. She shares with us the highlights, strengths and what has helped her in this program thus far:

“First and foremost, I love the instructors and my classmates that I have met. So far within the program I have learned several techniques already, but I would have to say that hair color; especially balayage, pin curls, event styling and the finishing touches to a service are my favorite.

” Michelle is working on getting more fashion color under her belt, as it has been a create interest for her that she can not wait to explore future into.

“I think that the Look-book that we had due on the last day of Phase-1 was very helpful as it allows us to put together a visual image of certain services that we can look back on to make that connection. As a visual learner, it was great to associate my work or photo references with a color level, cut, or technique.”

Being in this industry we all have our unique qualities that help us shine, so when asked what sets her apart from other stylist Michelle replied, “I am eager learn, I set high standards for myself, and I have no shame in asking questions. I have also set a personal goal to achieve as many program awards as I can. With the expectation of there being a variety of clients on a salon environment, I can also carry on a conversation with just about anyone.”

“Much like other stylists, I would offer them with a comfortable and safe place to achieve their hair goals. I am a good listener and can level with clients on their concerns. I’d also be happy to explain a technique prior to moving forward with a new hairstyle to assure my client is as confident as I would be.” Michelle concluded.

The Next Step

Having some time ahead of her, Michelle talks about her plans for the future. “At this time I believe that I’d like to begin at a salon, which will give me the opportunity to see where my heart and passion pull me. I feel that it will eventually lead me toward a specific specialty I’ll focus on. Whether that be as a salon owner, or maybe as an instructor down the line”

Feeling like you may want to take the leap and pursue your dreams in the beauty industry? Here is Michelle’s advice for you, “Ask all the questions, because all of Evergreen’s staff will be helpful and they will not let you fail. If you are wondering if the time is now? It is, and you can do it.”

Ms. Michelle is set to graduate December, 2021. And if you are interested in following Michelle throughout the rest of her program, and as she settles into the industry you can check her out on Instagram: @freshhair.bymichelle. Congratulations Ms. Michelle! We are so proud to be apart of this journey for you and can’t wait to see all your successes throughout your career.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in the beauty industry take the Beauty Biz Readiness Quiz, you can also check out our programs or contact us at one of our six locations: Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Everett, North Seattle, Renton, and Yakima.