Success Stories

We usually talk to our Level 4 Certificate learners once they’ve successfully completed the course. But from time to time we like to catch up with a current student who’s in the middle of their studies. That way we can get a snapshot of how it feels to be working through the course right now. And anyone thinking about studying our regulated course can discover just what it’s like.

Nicole Howard is an experienced colour specialist, working full-time with her sister in their large salon and spa in Fresno, California. First, a bit of geography. Fresno is a large city in the fertile San Joaquin Valley in central California. It’s famed for its many and varied crops, especially its grapes – it’s even been called ‘the raisin capital of the world’!

Why Nicole Wanted Deeper Hair and Scalp Knowledge

Just like every hair professional, wherever they’re located, Nicole has seen a constant stream of clients with hair and scalp issues over the years. “When you don’t have in-depth knowledge of what may be causing their problems, all you can do is try to be reassuring,” Nicole tells us. “There’s only so much you can say in those situations, and that can be really frustrating for both you and your client.”

In search of answers, Nicole set about researching the scientific causes of hair and scalp conditions, and she discovered trichology. “I’m a learner. So I decided to find a trichology course provider who would give me the detailed knowledge I wanted, as well as fitting in with my commitments at work and at home.” It was through her research that Nicole found TrichoCare Education and our trichology courses.

“I saw that I could study online and in my own time, and that was really important to me, as I don’t have the time to travel to a distant study centre,” she says. “And there was the chance to see if I liked the content and the way you learned by taking the Introduction to Trichology course first.”
Which she did. And having experienced the TrichoCare’s learning style and the learning platform, she then signed up for the regulated Level 4 Certificate in Trichology.

Balancing Study, Salon Life and Family

“I work full-time, and I have two kids, so there’s lots going on. It was important to find a study schedule that works for me. And I have. My personal study time is first thing in the morning, when it’s quiet and there are no distractions. I find I can fit in a manageable 8 to 10 hours a week – which keeps me on track with TrichoCare’s course timetable.”

We were interested in how Nicole is finding the course, now she’s well into her studies. “It’s professional, informational and affordable, because I can pay in instalments. There’s lots of scientific detail, which is what I was looking for. I was worried at first I might be overwhelmed by the amount of content, but actually I find it absorbing. I really like it and my Mentor tells me I’m doing very well.”
And is there anything that’s been particularly challenging? “It did take a little time to figure out some of the detail of the learning platform, but I’m with it now!”

Nicole has found that when learners are looking for a little help with their studies, TrichoCare’s Student Care team is there to lend a hand. “My Mentor Gina and Course Director Keith have been really supportive when I had a question or wanted advice. And the learner WhatsApp group is also great for sharing ideas with other students.”

Turning New Knowledge into Future Opportunities

We wondered if Nicole had decided yet how she’ll use her newly acquired knowledge when she completes the course. “It’s a little early to say, but we do have an ideal space at the salon for private trichology consultations, so that would be an option. I’m certainly hoping to put my new qualification to good use for the benefit of my clients in the future.”

Nicole’s Advice for Future Trichology Students

Finally, does Nicole have any words of advice for anyone thinking about studying trichology with TrichoCare? “I’ve already recommended the course I’m studying to my co-workers. You do have to be ready to study regularly, and get your head around some of the scientific language. But all the new knowledge and skills you gain will be really valuable when you talk to your clients about the worries they have with their hair and scalp.”

Ready to deepen your hair and scalp knowledge?

Take the next step in your professional development with TrichoCare’s Level 4 Certificate in Trichology. Like Nicole, you can study online around work and family commitments, with support throughout your learning journey.

Not sure where to start? Discover our Introduction to Trichology course and get a feel for the subject before committing to Level 4.

For more information about checking a qualification’s regulated status, visit the government’s Register of Regulated Qualifications