Finding beauty in the journey

Jordan McVicker’s studies in Beauty Therapy have given her the skills and confidence to pursue a versatile career pathway.

“Growing up, the whole dress up, makeup and nails thing was just so fun,” Jordan says. “Beauty was something I was interested in, but I hadn't really considered it as a career path.”

That all changed when Jordan started her Otago Polytechnic journey as a Year 12 high school student, through our Otago Secondary Tertiary College (OSTC).

“With OSTC, I came to campus every Friday and that’s where I learnt about Beauty Therapy. I was able to get a taster of tertiary study, and I really liked it.”

Studying at OP

Jordan went on to study Beauty Therapy at OP, graduating with Level 4 and Level 5 qualifications and acing her studies with A and A+ grades.

One of the things she appreciated about OP was a strong focus on practical learning and real-world experience.

“I'm a visual learner so hands-on learning was a big positive for me. It was also a lot of fun, working in an actual beauty clinic on campus, and finishing the day with a facial or getting your nails done.”

She also loved the campus environment and the social side of being an OP student.

“The Hub is really social because you've got the cafe and everyone coming here for their lunch. There are lots of events and clubs on campus as well – there’s a big community aspect which I really appreciated.”

Pursuing her passions

While studying Beauty Therapy, Jordan worked casually at the Otago Polytechnic Childcare Centre. She loved it so much that she is now pursuing a qualification in early childhood education, while still making some income with beauty therapy on the side.

“If I had to start all over again, I would still study both subjects. I can use beauty therapy whenever I want – it’s a career where you can have your own business independently, doing brows or nails for example, so I wouldn't change a thing about my learning journey.”

Jordan’s advice to anyone considering what to study is to choose something you enjoy and are interested in.

“I think that’s really important. A lot of people worry and second-guess their study choices. But I think that if you are going to enjoy it – regardless of whether it becomes your main source of income – it won’t be a waste,” she says.

“I enjoyed learning about beauty therapy so much. If I ever want to go work in a clinic on a Saturday because I miss it, I can – and that’s really cool.”