Growing up I had many mentors who always encouraged me to dream big and pursue my passions. My aunt Regina has been the loudest of them all. She was the one who first asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, and I remember telling her that I wanted to be responsible for crafting hair and makeup for the stars. That conversation has stuck with me throughout my life, and now, at 25 years old, I am finally pursuing my dream of becoming a licensed Cosmetologist. From a young age, I have been drawn to creative expression through hair designs, makeup artistry, and unique fashion choices. Though it took me a few years to truly be confinement in myself and my own looks I have now found joy and fulfillment in not only expressing myself but helping others embrace their individuality and gain confidence through self-expression. For the past three years, I have dedicated myself to immersing in the beauty industry, learning all that I can, and honing my skills to turn my dream into a reality. My journey into the beauty industry began in 2022 as a receptionist at a beauty school, where I learned the ins and outs of salon operations and how important connections are. I then moved on to work as a salon assistant and social media manager, gaining valuable insights into booking processes, social media's impact on salons, and inventory management. Currently, I am working at Sally's in a retail role, further expanding my product knowledge and customer service skills. While I have mainly focused on experimenting with my own hair, I am eager to obtain my license and gain hands-on experience in all hair types. My main interests and what I would like to specialize in would be vivid colors and razor cuts, and I am excited to develop and gain confidence in these areas. I am also determined to be the first one in my family to complete education further than High School and establish a career. In the long run, my goal is to open my own salon, creating a safe and welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable and confident. I also aspire to obtain an educator's license, allowing me to provide ongoing education for my employees and continue learning and growing in the industry. With determination and passion, I am confident that I will achieve my goals and make a positive impact in the world of beauty and self-expression. Attached I have inserted a photo of my hair I did recently. I do not have any photos of work I have done since most of my hands on experience has been hair washing and scalp massages.

In November 2023, my partner and I broke up, and I had to move from a city that I loved. I have spent countless hours listening to Chappell's music as a way to cope. Her music not only helped me through the breakup but also reignited a sense of authenticity in me, inspiring me to not give up on myself. Coming from a very religious background, I felt the need to conceal my true identity. Chappell Roan's music has helped me to be more open about who I love, my identity, and how I express myself through clothing and makeup. It has encouraged me to not be silent about these aspects of my life. If her music has had this much of an impact on me as a 25-year-old, I can only imagine the positive influence she could have on young people. Her career is now more important than ever, to show that even in a scary world, one should not be afraid to be oneself.I will always support someone who makes me feel safe and at peace, no matter what challenges life throws at me. Chappell has changed my life for the better. As someone aspiring to be in the beauty industry, she is everything to me. I want to have the ability to impact anyone and everyone the way she has impacted me, by promoting self-expression and confidence.