Graduate Story - Stephanie Howell
Our 2022 graduate, Steph Howell, shares her journey from Frenchie to Dermal Skin Specialist working with a leading Cosmetic Doctor
In the dynamic world of beauty therapy, finding the perfect blend of creativity and technical skill is key to success. For Steph, a graduate from our Brisbane campus, her journey is a testament to this fusion of passion and professional development. Steph’s story is one of transformation, inspired by a long-standing love for beauty and a deep-seated desire to address skin concerns with expertise.
Steph’s initial foray into the beauty industry began at the age of 19 with a Certificate II in Makeup Artistry. However, it was only at 26, when she chose to deepen her knowledge at The French Beauty Academy, that her true path began to crystallize. Drawn by the superior curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities, Steph embraced the challenge of returning to study as a mature student. Her journey was marked by a supportive environment, helping her navigate through her courses and inspiring her to pursue further learning.
From the nervous excitement of her Orientation week to her profound experiences in facials and massage classes, Steph’s time at The French was both challenging and rewarding. The sense of community and support she found at the academy remains one of her fondest memories, setting a solid foundation for her professional growth.
Post-graduation, Steph’s career quickly took off. With her skills honed at The French, she secured a position at a major chain during her diploma and later transitioned to a boutique cosmetic skin clinic. Her dedication to ongoing learning and her specialization in cosmetic chemistry have positioned her as a sought-after therapist. Now, working under a cosmetic doctor, Steph continues to excel, driven by her passion for innovative skin treatments and modalities.
OUR FLAGSHIP BEAUTY THERAPY DIPLOMA
What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in beauty therapy? Was there a specific moment or experience that inspired you?
I started in the beauty industry at 19 after completing my cert 2 in make up artistry, I always loved the creativity of it but was more interesting in helping those with their skin concerns so I went back to study beauty therapy at 26 in 2021 with the French.
What was your main motivation to choose to study at The French Beauty Academy? What was it that drew you to study here?
The French curriculum and facilities were far superior to others in QLD
Do you remember your Orientation week? Can you share your experience or how you felt on those first few days/weeks.
I was really nervous going back to study as a “mature” student and was worried how I would fit in/ handle the study load. Kellie was my student coordinator and she was lovely and full of inspiration which put me at ease. I remember writing a future letter to myself with our perfume scents that we would receive at graduation.
Reflecting on your time at The French, can you share a standout moment or memory?
I loved my facials classes and really found my passion here! Tiarne and Kellie really helped shape me to where I am today and Kellie assisted me with helping me find ongoing study options after the French.
What do you miss most about The French?
The community and classes. As much as I loved my continued study, it did not compare to the French in terms of community and teacher support.
Did you have a favourite subject or Educator at The French? Why/What did you love most about it?
Facials with Tiarne, I loved being able to learn and touch skin, it really ignited my passion further and Massage with Kellie, while I didn’t love the massage practical I loved Kellies informative classes and materials.
In what ways did The French help you develop personally and professionally?
The French helped me with my confidence and shaped me as a therapist I am today. The French really pushed me to be my best and follow my passions and dreams.
Was there an invaluable lesson or any advice you received from The French that has stuck with you and continues to inspire you?
theres always something to learn in this industry. Kellie provided me with some text books on more advanced skin analysis and cosmetic chemistry to read over the Christmas break, Im really thankful for this and it really inspired me to continue my learning. This is something I love about the industry is there is always new and innovative technology and findings.
How easy was it for you to gain work after graduating? Tell me about your first career ‘break’ in beauty?
Very much so, I found a job half way through my diploma at one of the major chains which I learnt a lot from. After I graduated I went to work in a beautiful boutique cosmetic skin clinic which really honed in on my skin skill set.
How are French graduates perceived in the industry? Did your employer know who The French Beauty Academy was?
French graduates are perceived very highly in the industry and yes they did, they spoke very highly of the French and other employees who were past frenchies and how our skills stood out to others who studied elsewhere.
With innovations and trends constantly evolving, what aspect of working in the beauty industry excites you the most right now?
Skin always, I’m really interested in cosmetic chemistry and combining modalities to get the best outcome for my clients. Im loving no downtime peels and lasers with great results.
For prospective students considering studying at The French Beauty Academy, what aspect of the program do you think sets a solid foundation for success in the industry?
The new programs at the French (this wasn’t available during my time) will set them apart even more and have them industry ready for advanced modalities. The strict uniform and grooming guidelines (we are a first impressions industry) this comes in handy when interviewing and meeting clients for the first time and the service excellence as you come across a lot of different people and situations as a therapist.
Looking ahead, what personal or professional goals are you aiming to achieve in the next few years? Is there a dream role or achievement you're working towards?
Since graduating I planned to continue my studies in dermal science and my aim was to work under a cosmetic Doctor. I have recently finished these studies and have gained employment under a cosmetic Doctor in a beautiful clinic in west end. When I was interviewed he spoke highly of the French as my foundations of my studies prior to my dermal science studies.
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“The strict uniform and grooming guidelines (we are a first impressions industry) this comes in handy when interviewing and meeting clients for the first time and the service excellence as you come across a lot of different people and situations as a therapist.
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- Steph Howell
My Signature Beauty Go tos...
Scent: Dior Hypnotic Poison
Lipstick: Mac honey love and Fenty Fussy gloss
Podcast: currently Brownyn True Crime podcast by the Australian and beauty IQ uncensored
Best Kept Secret: One well-kept secret for healthy skin is staying hydrated. Drinking enough water helps maintain skin moisture and overall complexion.
The French Edit...
City: Melbourne
Beauty Muse: Jaz Hand, Joanna Fleming, Elizabeth Cee, Hilary Holmes
Drink: Soy latte or Spicy Marg
Song: anything EDM
Quote:“Success is inevitable if you just don’t quit”
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In the spirit of reconciliation, The French Beauty Academy acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country on which our Campuses stand today. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of the land, their Elders past, present and emerging, and to their connections to land, sea and community. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.
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