Many people learn about the beauty industry simply because of friendships with other beauty experts. If you’re looking to learn more about a beauty career through the people you already know, you might find inspiration in Simon Souvannarath’s story, as he created his path through meeting with existing beauty experts. Read on to learn more about how Simon created a career he’s still doing to this day.

Simon Souvannarath’s Path

Why did you choose Ogle School?

I toured and visited a lot of other schools. It just didn’t feel right, so I just waited for a bit before I really decided. I was going around meeting other hairstylists and makeup artists, and they all graduated from Ogle for some crazy reason. So, for me, it was credible, it was reputable. Word of mouth is everything to me. So, I feel like, why not? And so, I came to orientation and just fell in love.

What was the deciding factor that made Ogle School seem right?

The professionalism, the focus. I feel like when I walked into other schools, they wouldn’t have prepared me as Ogle would have. They had that look. The campus was also really nice versus the schools that I toured and visited. It was just an easy decision.

What obstacles did you face in your education?

Working full-time and then coming to school right after, like six days a week, five days a week, that was really tough. You’re waking up early in the morning, you’re staying until 10 p.m. And I commend a lot of the students here who do that, especially evening students.

What advice would you give someone facing a similar challenge?

It just pays off in the end. It’s rewarding in itself. So just hang in there, be tough, and it’s going to pay off.

What have you been doing since graduation?

Currently, I am a beauty studio captain at Sephora. I’m leading the artistry piece at Sephora with the makeup team and the color team there. I’ve been doing that and then doing a lot of freelancing outside, working with published photographers and contracted models here in the Dallas area. I’ve been really busy doing that.

How did you get your salon position?

I actually started because we went on a field trip here to the mall. We visited salons and cosmetic stores and I got recruited on the field trip.

What advice would you give someone who’s entering the beauty industry?

I know a lot of students fear that there is a lot of competition out there, so they’re scared to really get themselves out there. But the thing is, it’s just huge out there. The sky is the limit. There are so many avenues that you can take. Don’t be afraid to. There’s no competition like that. I don’t see any competition. What’s for me is for me, and that’s how I feel.

Do you think Ogle School has prepared you for a career?

Ogle is the top school in Texas here. And you get great training just like the mission statement says. It ties all back to that. It’s so true. Ogle School prepares committed students for rewarding careers in the beauty industry. And so, we have the highest caliber, student-centered training. It just all ties back. And it’s crazy that they start with that, and then it ends with that.

Discover Your Own Beautiful Story

Your Beautiful Story may look much like Simon’s or it may be very different. Regardless of where you are in the beauty journey you’re on, Ogle School can support you. Find support through the cosmetology program or the esthetics program. Request more information to find out what Ogle can do to help you achieve all your dreams.