Milan Institute Student Gives Back: A Heartwarming Salon Makeover for Burn Survivor
Collette Fletcher knew this community service event would be different. She volunteered to join her cosmetology instructor, Rebecca Torres, for a standard hair makeover. Collette didn’t know the simple act of hairstyling would have such a profound effect on her own life.
In partnership with the Ronald McDonald House of Bakersfield and other community organizations, Milan Institute in Bakersfield recently participated in a life-changing salon makeover. Suci, a burn survivor from Indonesia, had been in California to receive skin grafts and other surgeries not available to her locally.
Burn Survivor Receives Treatment in Bakersfield
Suci’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As a young bride, she suffered severe burns when her clothes caught fire while cooking. The incident left her with significant injuries to her face, chest, arms, and neck. Due to limited healthcare access in her home country, Suci was fortunate to survive but faced ongoing challenges that affected her quality of life. She struggled to lift her neck and close her mouth efficiently, constant reminders of her traumatic experience.
Enter the compassionate team at Milan Institute. Recognizing the opportunity to make a difference, they embraced the chance to provide Suci with a salon experience she truly deserved. This act of community service provided an invaluable learning experience for those involved.
“As a student of Milan Institute,” Colleen said, “I was honored to be able to be a part of helping Suci with styling her hair and giving her the salon experience that she deserves.”
“Experiencing our Bakersfield community come together for Suci and hearing her story is an experience I will never forget,” Colleen said.
The impact of this community service extended beyond the student to the instructor as well. Rebecca Torres, a cosmetology instructor at Milan Institute, expressed her emotions: “I am moved and appreciative to have been a part of Suci’s salon experience. Having met her and hearing her story has touched my heart.”
“On behalf of Milan Institute,” said Rebecca, “I want to thank Suci’s amazing team. To be a small part of her healing journey will forever live in my heart.”
Community Service As Part Of Beauty Education
This heartwarming event underscores the importance of incorporating community service into beauty education programs. By participating in such meaningful activities, students at Milan Institute gain more than just technical skills – they develop empathy, compassion, and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of their chosen profession.
Community service opportunities like this salon makeover allow students to:
- Apply their skills in real-world situations
- Develop a sense of social responsibility
- Build confidence in their abilities
- Connect with their local community
- Understand the emotional impact of their work
Milan Institute continues to emphasize the importance of giving back. They are shaping not just skilled beauty professionals, but compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact. This blend of technical expertise and social consciousness is what sets Milan Institute apart in the world of beauty education.
The story of Suci’s salon makeover serves as a powerful reminder that the most beautiful transformations happen in the heart.
Connect with Milan Institute for Community Service Events
Are you part of a charitable organization? Are you local to a Milan Institute or Milan Institute of Cosmetology campus? If so, contact us to see if we can join your next event.
For more information on Suci’s journey, visit www.bakersfield.com to read her story.
