Lauren Babcock
Lauren Babcock – Cosmetology Graduate (2009)
For Lauren Babcock, enrolling in the Cosmetology program at Milan Institute in 2009 was about independence, passion, and building a future she could truly call her own. From the very beginning, Lauren knew she wanted to work for herself and build a career that would allow her creativity and determination to shine. What made her journey even more special was being part of history—she was among the very first classes to enroll and graduate when Milan Institute opened its Reno campus.
Lauren describes her experience in Milan as thoroughly preparing her for success in the beauty industry. From hands-on training to state board preparation, she felt equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to step into her career. The program didn’t just teach technical skills; it fostered resilience, professionalism, and a strong sense of community among students.
That sense of community became especially important during one of the most challenging periods of Lauren’s life. While attending school, she faced multiple financial hardships, periods of unemployment, and even temporary homelessness as she worked to complete her program. Despite these obstacles, Lauren stayed focused on her long-term goals. She pushed forward with a constant reminder of the future she was building and the career waiting for her on the other side. Her perseverance paid off—and today, her story stands as a powerful testament to determination and grit.
Now with more than 16 years of experience in the beauty industry, Lauren works at Sublime Salon Studios in Sparks, Nevada, where she continues to thrive doing what she loves. Some of her favorite memories from Milan are the friendships she formed—the laughter, the shared busy days, and the camaraderie of students supporting one another as they honed their craft and built confidence together.
Looking ahead, Lauren isn’t done growing. Her goal is to continue pursuing her aspirations as a Cosmetology Instructor so she can pass on her years of experience to the next generation of beauty professionals.
Her advice to future students is heartfelt and honest: “Don’t quit. Keep going—and remember, nothing worth anything is easy. The longer you stay in the business, the better it gets.” Lauren’s journey proves that with perseverance, passion, and support, success is always within reach.