My name is Julia and I graduated from MVRHS in 2020 with an MVYouth workforce scholarship. Since then, I have been working as a dual-licensed cosmetologist and barber in Massachusetts. As of January 2023, I have been working as a booth renter rather than a commission stylist. This means that I am considered self-employed and fully responsible for all aspects of my business. I have learned a lot this past year as I took a large leap into the workforce world and accomplished one of my goals as a business professional. Within the last several months, I’ve had to adapt to new ways to advertise myself in my new rental space. Beyond the traditional annual courses and classes I take to keep up with modern trends and techniques, I took an extension certification program, social media classes, business classes, and even some mental health training. In October of 2023, I married a wonderful man who fully supports and encourages me in my field. As an electrician, he understands the workforce well and has been helpful in my new business endeavors. He always pushes me to take that additional step to always stand out from the crowd. I commuted a few days a week from my rental space to the island and serviced my MV clientele at Panache Salon in West Tisbury owned by Tracy Briggs. Although housing keeps me off the island, I still plan to commute through the summers for as long as possible, as the island’s clientele feels like home. 2023 was a wonderful year of learning. I learned so much about my business, the industry, extensions, and most importantly to be patient with myself and to have fun along the ride. I can’t wait to see what I am able to accomplish professionally in 2024 and I am forever grateful for MVYouth.