Christine Chamberland

Creativity, art, practice and never stop learning. Yes, I’m talking about the marvelous and spectacular world of cosmetology! Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of being two things; a ballerina and a hairstylist. At the time, I didn't even know all the amazing things that cosmetologists do. All I knew is that I wanted to cut and style hair. Of course, I would always ask to cut/style my family's hair and I would jump at the chance when they would tell me to go for it!After serving my time in the Air Force, I did some work as a brand ambassador and then decided to nanny as I was still trying to figure out what to do with my life and of course I love working with kids. Along with that, I worked for a modeling agency which gave me great institute to the modeling and cosmetology world. Though I always had this feeling I was meant for more. When my husband got orders to move to Alabama, I was still trying to figure it out. Soon after moving here, unfortunately COVID was full blow meaning all the stores, restaurants and salons were closed. So of course all of my family and friends were asking me to cut and color their hair. As soon as I put those shears in my hand, I knew my true calling. And yes, the very next day I was looking up the best cosmetology schools around.When I was accepted to go to the Aveda Institue in Birmingham I felt so lucky to be working in an environment that is very eco friendly. Plus Aveda uses great quality products that are clean, pure and my favorite part: vegan! Of course, being an environmentalist and vegan myself, I never felt more at home.Being in cosmetology school, l get excited every day to learn more about the proper techniques, new skills and just being able to create new ideas and concepts for hair. Cosmetology is art. It brings me such delight when I get to do people's hair, makeup and nails. I can be a bit of a perfectionist which works out perfectly when I see how happy the guest is when I finish a service. I love to serve people and help make them feel confident so they can shine with beauty.One thing I learned from the Air Force and still use to this day are the three core values.1. Integrity first.2. Service before self.3. Excellence in all we do.Every day I head into school, I think about those. Always have good integrity. Put others before yourself and when I do something, you better believe I'm trying to be excellent at it and giving it 110%!Once I graduate from school, my big dream is to work in a top-notch salon along with volunteering my services to the Look Good Feel Better program and homeless shelters. Volunteering and giving back has always been a big passion of mine. From volunteering at a soup kitchen for years, I came to realize that sometimes people just need a little extra hope and joy in their life. And that is exactly what I want to do when volunteering with my cosmetology degree. Often all people need is a fresh look and positive conversation to help bring back the confident and cheerful person inside.Be positive, be beautiful but most importantly, always be yourself!xoxoChristine