Emylee Whitten
She/HerprofessionalOpen to Opportunity
Englewood, CO, USA
About me
I’m an 19-year-old high school and cosmetology school graduate, ready to turn my passions into a career. Alongside my love for cosmetology, I enjoy playing volleyball and painting—creative outlets that fuel my artistic spirit. In school, my favorite subjects are haircutting and color, where I thrive in transforming visions into reality. While roller sets aren’t my favorite, I’ve developed the patience and skill to master them when needed.
I graduated in 2024 with honors, ranking near the top of my class, and I’ve always been driven to delve deeper into the subjects that excite me. My passion for art naturally led me to cosmetology—it felt like a dream to bring my creativity to life on people every day. Once I began, I was hooked, constantly eager to learn and grow.
Throughout high school, I balanced a part-time job and, at one point, even juggled two jobs alongside extracurricular activities and academics. My hard work paid off, earning me multiple promotions and the reputation of a “model employee.”
Leadership has always played a significant role in my journey, especially in cosmetology school. I took charge of planning events, including our monthly “Kids’ Beauty Night,” where we empowered children to celebrate their natural beauty and learn fun self-care tips.
I’m a lifelong learner at heart. I love asking questions, exploring new ideas, and diving deeper into topics that ignite my passion. For me, every challenge is an opportunity to grow and create something extraordinary.
Education
My work
Why I'm here
In the fall of 2024, my best friend, mentor, and beloved sister, Maddie, was taken from us by one of the world’s rarest cancers—NUT Carcinoma. Just months before she was admitted to the hospital, Maddie traveled from Texas to Colorado to celebrate my high school graduation. During her visit, I had the privilege of working on her hair and makeup, helping her feel beautiful and confident. That time together was priceless. We talked endlessly about my future and the dreams I was unsure I could achieve.
At that point, I doubted my abilities in cosmetology. I couldn’t help comparing myself to my classmates, questioning whether I had the talent to succeed. Maddie, in her infinite wisdom and love, reminded me of my determination, passion, and skill. She reassured me that I was capable of excelling in any field I set my heart on. Her only wish was for me to be happy and successful—she was my loudest cheerleader and fiercest supporter.
Even from her hospital bed, Maddie’s encouragement never wavered. One week before she passed, she made me promise to continue pursuing what I love, no matter how hard it got or how unmotivated I might feel. I made that promise with all my heart, and it is a promise I carry with me every day.
I will forever honor Maddie’s memory by striving to be the best version of myself, pushing through challenges with the determination she believed in so deeply. My cosmetology journey hasn’t been easy, but knowing she’s cheering for me in spirit inspires me to work harder, dream bigger, and live a life filled with purpose and joy—just as she wanted for me.
Cosmetology has been my sanctuary during life’s toughest moments, fueling my passion and giving me purpose. I’m deeply inspired by the endless opportunities to learn and grow, and I find immense joy in sharing my skills to make others feel their best. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone’s face light up with a smile after I’ve worked on their hair, nails, or makeup—that’s the moment I live for.
In class, I thrive on creativity and precision, especially when working on women’s layered haircuts—bonus points for edgy, alternative styles! I also love perfecting and exploring bold, vivid colors that bring out each client’s unique beauty. Whether it’s a dramatic transformation or a subtle enhancement, I’m all about celebrating individuality and making every client feel like the best version of themselves.
Additional Information
Awards and Achievements
