Hair, Art, & Heart: RCC Students Compete in Summer Skills Project
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 31, 2025
LUMBERTON, NC – Students in the Cosmetology program at Robeson Community College have put their talents to the test this summer through a dynamic and imaginative Skills Project designed to challenge their creativity, technical knowledge, and career-readiness.
Modeled after the guiding principles of SkillsUSA, the project encourages students to become world-class workers and leaders by promoting essential personal, workplace, and technical skills. The competition-style assignment not only mirrors real-world industry expectations but also highlights the depth of learning provided through RCC’s cosmetology curriculum.
“The purpose of SkillsUSA is to empower our students,” says Ms. Mary Ransom, Director of the Cosmetology Program. “This project helps reinforce that purpose while allowing students to explore their creativity in a way that demonstrates the full scope of what they’ve learned in our program.”
The Skills Project is divided into three parts:
- Part 1: Students submit a photo or illustration of a character they’ve chosen—based on a movie, book, or their imagination—along with a one-page explanation of their inspiration.
- Part 2: Students create a detailed portfolio, including a step-by-step description of their coloring techniques, hair design, and makeup application. This documentation allows the look to be replicated by another stylist, mirroring professional standards.
- Part 3: Students complete a mannequin showcasing the hair and makeup design of their chosen character. Props and other visual elements may be used to bring the character to life.
Throughout the project, students often face challenges such as creative blocks, time management struggles, and learning how to work with unconventional products like clay and theatrical paints. These hurdles, however, provide rich learning opportunities.
“As instructors, it’s rewarding to see students overcome obstacles and develop original ideas,” says Ms. Ransom. “We’re not just teaching them techniques, we’re teaching them confidence, professionalism, and how to bring their artistic vision to life.”
The project aligns with key skill areas outlined by the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts, including shampooing, coloring, haircutting, thermal styling, and makeup application. The assignment also reinforces the importance of time management and following instructions, which are critical skills for any career in the beauty industry.
Robeson Community College has proudly participated in SkillsUSA competitions for the past three years. The program emphasizes that success is defined by personal growth and skill development.
The top three winners of the Summer 2025 Cosmetology Skills Project were:
- 1st Place: “Queen Charlotte” by Nayyriah Jenkins
- 2nd Place: “Tin Woman” inspired by The Wizard of Oz by Brianna Graham
- 3rd Place: “Ursula” by Ashleigh Brooks
Each winning design stood out for its creativity, precision, and overall presentation, exemplifying the high standards of excellence RCC instills in its cosmetology students.
“We always remind our students that we walk in as winners and leave as winners. It’s not the trophies that define us, but the knowledge we gain and the growth we experience, those are the true jewels in any competition,” said Ms. Ransom.
For more information about the Cosmetology program at Robeson Community College, please visit www.robeson.edu or call (910) 272-3700.
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For media inquiries, please contact Courtney Jacobs, Director of Governance and Marketing, at 910-272-3231 or cjacobs@robeson.edu.
