Why did you choose to study at Hull College?

At the time, I was living in Hull, and really wanted a career in the beauty industry. Hull College offered what I wanted locally and had everything I needed.

What did you enjoy most about studying at Hull College?

I loved the range of topics we covered within the beauty industry. Especially the make-up unit, as this unit inspired my entire career. When I began studying at Hull College, I didn’t have an exact idea of where I wanted my career to go, however on the first make-up class, I found my real passion, I realised this is what I wanted to specialise in.

What has been your career path up until now?

After studying at Hull College, I began working part-time in a hair and beauty salon to give me experience in a salon environment and practice my new skills!

I then enrolled onto a BA Hons Degree in Make-up Artistry and Special Make-up Effects. I spent 3 years studying this degree as well as working in the beauty salon, adding more make-up skills to my skill-set. I also worked as a freelancer in the bridal industry, in and around the Hull area. Then in my free time I worked on building my editorial portfolio and networking with other creatives.

When I finished my degree in 2011, I was offered a full-time position as counter manager at the Lancome counter in Debenhams Hull. This role helped improve my makeup skills further, along with customer service and organisational skills.

After 2 years working at Lancome, I took the opportunity to move to Melbourne, Australia. Since living in Melbourne I have started my freelance makeup business again, from scratch. I have slowly built up my clientele and networked within the fashion world to find work within the editorial industry.

Since 2014 I have been a specialist make-up trainer full time and have juggled this role and my freelance career. I have recently stepped down to just 2 days as an educator to focus on my freelance work.

What does your job involve?

My role as an educator includes facilitating training in makeup techniques and hair styling. We teach basic makeup/ hair styles to special effects make-up.

My freelance work includes mainly bridal work and editorial, and I have featured in a range of publications.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I have been lucky enough to be offered some amazing opportunities here in Australia, but working backstage at the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Sydney was a career highlight for me.

What are your hopes and dreams for the future?

My goals are to build a freelance business which enables me to continue to travel the world.

Have your studies helped you to achieve your career aims?

Yes absolutely! Firstly, I would not have found my passion for make-up without studying the diploma in beauty therapy. I also feel the skills I learnt at Hull College have stuck with me through my career so far. I have a strong knowledge of skin which goes hand-in-hand with make-up artistry - Amazing make-up always starts with healthy skin!

What would you say to inspire current and future students?

Try to think of your career as a journey instead of a destination.

If you have big dreams, it may not be the easiest thing you’ve ever done but it will be the most worthwhile when you start to smash your goals.

Don’t compare yourself to other artists/therapists. Focus on your own goals and not what other people are doing - this can de-motivate you.

‍