Graduate Story - Emerald Golightly
Our 2017 Valedictorian relocated to Perth to follow her dreams as a senior therapist and educator
Emerald’s love of beauty therapy and personal passion for her own wellbeing runs deep. After coming to a crossroads in her life, Emerald decided to combine her interest in her own personal growth with her passion for the beauty and wellness industries. Upon completion of her studies, Emerald was equipped with the necessary skills to be employed by 3 spas within hotels and casinos. Fast forward, Emerald has relocated interstate and is working her dream-job as the Senior Therapist/Educator at Crown Spa Perth working with luxury brands such as La Prairie.
With a passion for business/commerce and a thirst for knowledge, Emerald is furthering her studies and has enrolled a Bachelor of Commerce (specifically Business Information Systems) which will allow her to pursue her love of IT within beauty/salon spaces to help elevate their digital/technical components.
What motivated you to pursue a career in beauty therapy?
I was at a crossroads in my life and although it may sound cliche – I had a calling from my higher power. Beauty Therapy wasn’t something I originally thought I would pursue as a career, however my deep personal passion to care for myself was at the core of my decision. Business and the beauty/wellness industries excite me so it felt natural to start studying a Beauty Therapy course to support my personal journey and career development.
What was your main motivation for studying at the French?
I was drawn to the strong business structure, online presence and relevant service offering within the marketplace. This gave me confidence and I knew the whole package would support my education, personal growth and career development long term. On a personal level, I loved the Service Excellence Program. I believe it is essential to have an authentic interest in personal growth if we are to hold space genuinely for guests and clients.
What was your favourite part about studying at the French? How would you describe your experience from the day you started at orientation?
My favourite part about studying at The French was the fact that I could tailor the course to my current life circumstances and fit it in with my family and work commitments. The course was fabulous, I was able to ‘have it all’ and slowly build the life of my dreams.
How did the French help prepare you for life as a professional beauty therapist?
The French helped me to cultivate high standards of service through education, accountability as a student, as well as a building a foundation for strong work ethic. All the teachers and staff demonstrated high standards of professionalism which was important to me.
Did you have a favourite teacher / subject at the french? Why?
Nadine Russell – Nadine showed me how being a true therapist is about being an artist. It wasn’t in those exact words, but Nadine demonstrated her own personal standards over 18 months which I observed. She was a great mentor.
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU RECEIVED FROM YOUR STUDY AT THE FRENCH?
Go for it, set your sights on what you want, believe in yourself and make it happen.
WHAT WERE SOME OF THE INVALUABLE LESSONS OR MOST IMPORTANT THING THAT YOU LEARNT AT THE FRENCH THAT YOU HAVE BEEN ABLE TO APPLY TO YOUR NEW CAREER?
Consistency, flexibility, professional acumen, being apart of an inclusive team.
HOW EASY WAS IT FOR YOU TO GAIN WORK AFTER GRADUATING? TELL ME ABOUT YOUR FIRST CAREER ‘BREAK’?
After graduating I found gaining work an easy process. I have had employment in 3 fabulous spas within hotels and casinos and I have moved interstate to be a part of a fabulous team at Crown Spa Perth, working with my strengths and constantly growing within the industry.
WHAT ELEMENTS OF YOUR STUDY ALLOWED YOU TO OBTAIN YOUR NEW JOB? WERE THERE ANY SPECIFIC SKILLS THAT YOU LEARNED FROM YOUR TIME AT THE FRENCH THAT YOU THEN HIGHLIGHTED IN ORDER TO BE HIRED?
As business/commerce is a deep passion of mine, I really put substantial effort into developing a concept and thorough business plan (The Business of Beauty Module really helped me with this). This business plan became part of my portfolio/resume and I submitted it with my job applications. I believe showcasing this additional knowledge influenced my employers and showed them my dedication and the strength I could bring to their team. I have recently enrolled to study a Bachelor of Commerce at Curtin University to further develop my skills within the Industry. Yay!
The Business Of Beauty & Makeup
HOW ARE THE FRENCH GRADUATES PERCEIVED OUT IN THE INDUSTRY?
The French graduates have a strong reputation and are highly sought after in industry.
WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY ABOUT YOUR NEW JOB? HAS THERE BEEN A MEMORABLE MOMENT SINCE YOU GRADUATED?
Currently I am the Senior Therapist/ Educator at Crown Spa Perth. This role offers a diverse range of skills which keeps me interested. I love working with La Prairie as one of our luxury brands and we have recently launched our Subtle Energies Journeys in both Crown Perth and Melbourne. The Subtle Energies Journeys are a bespoke experience, taking the guest on a journey with the body and the mind in our luxurious suites. They are a step away from reality, in a deeply heart activated space which I love to create and are most aligned with my personal values.
DESCRIBE A DAY IN THE LIFE OF EMERALD…
In the morning I wake, stretch and listen to positive affirmations, have a coffee and journal. I always put care into my skin routine and love getting ready for work. I treat myself as a superstar and love the ritual of caring for myself. Work is a mix of treatments, training, meetings and guest interactions. It depends on what we have scheduled as to how I prioritise my day. At the end of the day I love to relax and watch something or read one of my many spiritually enlightening books. My home ritual is all about cleansing the day away, nourishing the skin and keeping super hydrated. Early to bed keeps me very happy!
WHY IS IT SO EXCITING TO WORK WITHIN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY RIGHT NOW?
We are at an extremely potent time in the beauty industry right now where there is a shift around beauty and all that it encompasses. Beauty comes from within and we can express it externally. They are not mutually exclusive which means we have so many options – our mind, our physical body, our self esteem, our skin and our daily lifestyle all play a large part in the jigsaw puzzle of life. Self expression and freedom of choice is the backbone of the beauty industry which really excites me!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS WHO ARE WANTING TO PURSUE A CAREER IN BEAUTY THERAPY?
Take time to get to know yourself, start your journey of beauty therapy with yourself. Layer your experiences like a cloak and try new ones on. Love yourself and celebrate yourself. Find your voice and share it with the world. There is only 1 of you in the world which is awesome!
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS? DO YOU HAVE AN ULTIMATE CAREER AMBITION?
I will be studying Commerce at Curtin University majoring in Business Information Systems. I am very passionate about the refined digital connection within the Spa/Salon and how it impacts guest experience – before, during and after their time in the apa. I would like to develop my skills so I that I could create my own consultancy brand and support small and large businesses to elevate their digital/technical components of their business. I’d like to help them enhance their brand, improve internal operations and ultimately sustain a thriving business.
HOW DID YOU BALANCE FURTHER STUDYING WITH WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY?
It took a clear decision to manage my time super effectively, a great support network and daily motivation.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THOSE CONSIDERING THE ADVANCED DIPLOMA? WHY DO YOU THINK IT IS A MUST?
If you want to stand out you need to define who you are and equip yourself with the skills and an education to match. That way you will be armed with all the knowledge to get noticed and find employment. The Advanced Diploma demonstrates your commitment levels to exploring advanced skin therapies which many employers are looking for.
MY SIGNATURE BEAUTY GO TOS…
Scent: Lavender Essential Oil
Lipstick: Nude lip with red gloss
Book: The Richest Man in Babylon
Blog: Beauticate
Best Kept Secret: If you make your bed everyday, you will cultivate success in all areas of your life!
THE FRENCH EDIT...
City: London
Beauty Muse: Jocelyn Petroni
Drink: Sparkling mineral water & coffee
Song: Amazing Grace
Quote: Life is for living, so live it!
"If you want to stand out you need to define who you are and equip yourself with the skills and an education to match"
- Emerald Golightly
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