Congratulations to Madison who was awarded the Sephora Scholarship in 2024. We asked Madison about the program and life as a Sephora Scholar. Here is what she said:
Why did you decide to go to beauty school at Aveda Institute Portland?
I decided to go to school at Aveda largely due to the focus on wellness as a whole, and wellness within the esthetics field. I take an interest in not only esthetics, but wellness, mindfulness, and health as a whole, which I saw was integrated into the curriculum.
How did you hear about the Sephora Scholarship/why did you apply?
I heard about the Sephora Scholarship while on a job search and found the opportunity of a lifetime with Sephora. The Beauty Scholar program was a six-month paid internship in which Sephora works to further your career via education, employment, and up to a $7,500 scholarship. Additionally, with weekly educational Zoom meetings with the Sephora Pro team to further my skills and knowledge with makeup, it was all the more reason for me to join.
What difference did the Sephora Scholarship make in your educational experience?
My time at sephora wildly changed my school experience. I had a team of people encouraging me, asking about my progress at school, congratulating my wins, and providing their insights on success at school and within the beauty industry. As mentioned, I’ve also furthered my education via weekly training, working with and shadowing professionals in my field, and Zoom meetings with professionals on topics ranging from makeup techniques to managing your social media and representing yourself professionally. My time at Sephora has been a wonderful experience because you get so much education, a ton of hands-on practice, and be a part of a truly unique team and culture.
Tell us about the impact this has had on your career and what is next for you!
I’m happy to report that once my internship is up at the end of August, I’ll be staying at Sephora as a permanent hire, and, once I receive my license, I will provide makeup, skincare, and waxing services in-store. I would absolutely recommend the program to cosmetology, esthetics, and barbering students. The program is running yearly across the country. If you see a listing for a store near you, and you need financial assistance to pay for school, definitely apply.
"Madison's charm, fierce determination, and never-ending love for all things beauty make her the perfect fit for your Scholarship Program. With her infectious enthusiasm and unparalleled drive, I do not doubt that Madison will make a lasting impression in the world of esthetics."
- AIP Instructor Kydra Bopp
The Sephora Scholarship Program was created to EMPOWER diverse students, specifically students of color pursuing a licensed career in beauty through professional training and education. Please visit the Sephora Scholarship for more information on how to participate.