Student Spotlight - Neave Fraser
✂️ Did you know that there are 4,000 hair and beauty businesses in Scotland, contributing around £400 million to the economy? If you are interested in working in this dynamic industry, our hairdressing courses will help unleash your creative potential and develop the skills needed for a rewarding career. Neave is currently finishing her final year at UHI Perth 👇
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Neave Fraser, and I am from Blairgowrie.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am currently finishing off my SCQF Hairdressing Level 6 course, with just three months remaining. This is my last year at UHI Perth after studying both level 5 and 6 here.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I have always known about UHI Perth, mainly from secondary school. When at school, I remember my Career Advisor advising me of courses that UHI Perth had to offer that were of interest.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before I came to college, I was working full-time in retail.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
When leaving school six years ago, I originally applied for the hairdressing course but unfortunately the course was already full. I then picked up two part-time jobs within the retail and hospitality industries and did this for quite a few years.
I have been in my current job for over two years now and decided in 2022 it was the right time to follow my dreams and to study my passion - Hairdressing.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about this course, is helping to make clients feel better about themselves and seeing their expression when they see the finished result.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
I would say the standout moments from my course are seeing how much my confidence has improved since the beginning. Not just in hairdressing, but also my communication skills.
Have you created any haircuts or hair ups that you have been really proud of?
I would say my strongest point in this course is the colouring side of things. I love exploring and expanding my creativity skills.
I have built a relationship with a particular client who has trusted me in her recent hair journey. This client had been using box dye for many years and now, after just three appointments with myself, has her dream hair colour and condition. I would say this is my proudest moment in hairdressing so far.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
Studying at college full-time, as well as working part-time, has taught me that being organised is a very important skill to have - no matter what course you study.
Allowing time to study at home, is also very important. This will help me in the future when scheduling time out of a particular day/week to book clients in the diary or reply to any business messages/queries.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I attended one week of placement when studying level 5, at a salon in Dundee. I am due to return to the same salon within the next few weeks, for this year’s placement.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time there last year, as it gave a totally different insight to hairdressing and how an outside salon trades compared to a training environment salon.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
My lecturers have been very supportive during my time at UHI Perth. There have been times I could not make certain classes, but my lecturers were more than happy to set up a ‘Teams’ call for me to attend class online.
What do you like about the campus/hairdressing facilities?
The campus is accessible for everyone and is easy for people to find their way around.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have enjoyed my time at UHI Perth, everyone is so friendly and positive.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
I have just bought my first home with my partner which has kept us very busy at evenings/weekends. In my spare time, I like to spend time with family/friends or explore the countryside with my puppy.
What are your future career plans?
At some-point in the future, I would like to be self-employed and build my own business up to something I have always dreamed of.
Do you have any social media accounts where we can follow your hairdressing work?
I have created a small portfolio on both Facebook and Instagram – Blossoming Locks.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Do it! You are never “too old or too young” to study your passion. It will be one of the best decisions you make.
