From Michigan, to Illinois and all the way out to Tennessee, Douglas J Institutes hold the same values from campus to campus. We value family, creativity, hard work and passion. We believe that this month’s featured student story embodies what we pride ourselves in at all of our locations. From Knoxville, Tennessee we proudly present James Black.
About James Black: From Carpentry to Cosmetology
James is a unique student. He enrolled in our cosmetology program in Knoxville at a later age than most, after years of working construction. James knew that construction wasn’t his final calling, as he longed to work in a place that accepted his blue hair, tattoos and creative spirit.
He told us, “I’ve always wanted to do this [start cosmetology school], but I was always doing something else. I couldn’t stop what I was doing because I needed to support my family.”
James worked hard for years, and he finally decided that it was time he put himself first. “I feel like it [cosmetology school] completed a part of me. I wish I would have done it earlier. There is so much opportunity out there, we just have to go and get it.”
We know that making a career change can be intimidating, but our staff and leadership team are here to make the transition as smooth as possible, no matter your age or history!
Why Douglas J Institute?
When we asked James why he decided to pursue enrollment at Douglas J Institute he said, “I saw an ad, and then someone told me about Douglas J. They said, ‘If you’re thinking about cosmetology school, this institute is the best of the best.’”
“I never fit in in construction. I thought the transition would be rough, but when I entered Douglas J, I saw three people with blue hair, and I felt so at home! There I met a color educator, and she gave me a hug. I knew this was home. I didn’t look anywhere else.”
James also loves what we stand for, from our Aveda branches, down to our local roots. “Even if this school wasn’t aligned with Aveda, our mission would be the same. It’s to make a difference, and it’s what I want to do. I am so beyond blessed. There are no words. I am so lucky to have found my place.”
For the Love of Beauty
James is an ambassador of Aveda’s commitment to “care for the world we live in”. He volunteers his time each month to a local salon that provides haircuts to the homeless and underprivileged community members. We admire and celebrate James and his positive attitude and willingness to go above and beyond for others. We hope that all of our students, from all campuses, are inspired by James’ story.
“[Cosmetology] is all about making connections. Nothing is coincidence. It’s about the bigger picture. I love people, and I love building relationships. We have to do what we can to help others.”
To the Future
James’ plans after graduation includes an apprenticeship because he believes that “you’ve got to learn more to earn more.” While James holds that belief steadily, he values human connection above all else, and he wants to focus on moving toward a more intimate salon environment where he can care for each guest and build lasting and meaningful relationships.
Advice for Future Students
“Appreciate what you have here at Douglas J– the professionalism, the experience of the educators, the administration team. Never become complacent.”
Thank You, James
We are so proud to have James represent our brand, and we cannot wait to see the things he’ll accomplish in the future. If you have a dream and are ready to take the leap like James, contact us today to find out more info about our cosmetology program.
