Single Mom, 3 Jobs and a Dream. Sharon’s Story Will Inspire You Too!

As we all have, Anderson College students have faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In an attempt to focus on the triumphs and celebrate the courage and tenacity of our community, we launched a My2020 Story Campaign. Students were asked a few poignant questions to spark the sharing of their experiences and insights. The response was overwhelming and, in the process, we have been blown away by their authentic sharing and inspired by the powerful lessons they have learned. We are grateful to all those who contributed and are richer for having you in our Anderson family.

Here is one such story, for you …

How Did 2020 Change Sharon’s Medical Esthetics Career Journey?

2020 was a memorable year for me because, while it presented some unforeseen challenges, it also gave me a tremendous opportunity to slow down, pause, and do some deep thinking around my life, my commitment to things I care deeply about, and my core values. Health, family, resilience and the well-being and safety of my community are the most important things in life.

I have a responsibility to myself and the people around me. I’m so grateful so many of us were able to stay safe and that we’re getting through this, together.

“Her (my instructor) experience in this field makes me feel so confident and the hands-on training I have received will enhance my ability to be a great medical esthetician as soon as I graduate.”

Why Did Sharon Choose a Medical Esthetician Career at Anderson College?

While COVID-19 has had a huge impact on our lives and well-being, it’s nice to reach out and show compassion to everyone. I am eager and excited to move forward by creating a new career and new opportunities in my life. I am fortunate to have the best teachers at Anderson College, Maggie and Michelle. Maggie has been a great motivator for me. What she has taught me has made me who I am today, as well as shaping me into who I am becoming. Michelle on the other hand has such great experience. Her experience in this field makes me feel so confident and the hands-on training I have received will enhance my ability to be a great medical esthetician as soon as I graduate.

On December 1, 2020 I received a reply from my aunt in the United States who I sent a message to on September 24, 2020. I asked how she’s been, given she’s been living alone after her husband passed away. We exchanged greetings and I mentioned to her that I’m studying medical esthetics at Anderson College and how much I loved being a student and learning new things and skills.

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Her reply struck me to the core of my being. It’s been a while since I read something like this. I’ve been living without both my parents, they passed away and I’m largely raising my children alone.

She wrote:

Sharon, I’m proud of you. When you graduate, it will be great as you will find an even higher step on the ladder.

You are industrious, hardworking and you have very good motivation in terms of your career. You are also pragmatic, independent and a self-sufficient woman. Yes, it’s good that you went to school, there’s no limit in learning. You are smart, you take after your papa, as he was very smart too. Keep it up, I’m very proud of you. I encourage you to always lead a clean and frugal life.

This opened a whole new world for me, one of feeling so appreciated. I felt motivated reading her message.

How Did Sharon Balance Being a Single Mother, Working Three Jobs, and Studying?

I am a very hardworking person. I worked 3 jobs so I can raise my children, plus I’m also studying medical esthetics at night. I felt guilty not being able to be with my children during their childhood, because I left my family to work abroad to give them a better life. After 8 years of working abroad, I managed to sponsor them, and they joined me here in Canada. Life wasn’t easy in the beginning. Raising kids doesn’t come with directions and instructions. You can’t just love them enough; you need to build their self-esteem and give them a space to discover things on their own. Now they are both in college and they work part-time. I’m so happy that they like their lives here.

How Did the Pandemic Strengthen Family and Purpose?

Before 2020, I was constantly exhausted and burned out. The lockdown forced me to slow down and reevaluate what truly matters.

Completing my virtual classes at home allowed me and my kids to become closer than ever. We spent more time together, eating together, watching Netflix together, dining out and planning trips together. I regret not being able to be with them on their birthdays, and school recognitions throughout most of all their childhood life. I’m always praying for them and guiding them in my own way. This is the way I was raised by my parents.

As I bid goodbye to the year 2020, I took a moment to acknowledge what this year did for me, and I am grateful for everything that I have.

Why Did Sharon Share Her Story?

I wrote my story to inspire others to be resilient in life.

I hope this encourages people to:

• Value family
  
• Support their communities
  
• Continue learning at any stage of life
  
• Live with purpose and discipline
  

2020 reminded us that we all have a responsibility to protect and care for one another.

Sharon B.

To learn more about the Medical Esthetics diploma program or one of our other 30+ leading-edge programs to help you take life to the next level of success, book a virtual appointment with our Admissions Team today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a medical esthetician career?

A medical esthetician career focuses on advanced skincare treatments, client care, and working in clinical or medical spa environments.

2. Can single parents pursue medical esthetics education?

Yes. Many programs, including Anderson College, offer flexible learning options that support working parents.

3. Why choose medical esthetics as a career?

Medical esthetics offers hands-on work, career stability, and opportunities for growth in clinics, spas, and medical settings.

4. Does Anderson College provide hands-on training?

Yes. Anderson College emphasizes real-world, hands-on training guided by experienced instructors.

5. How long does it take to complete the Medical Esthetician program?

Program length varies, but many students complete their diploma in just over one year, including practicum.