Pageant winner pursuing cosmetology at COD

College of DuPage student Jillian Dirks is translating her love of high fashion and the pageant world into a new career through the College's Cosmetology program.

The 21-year-old has competed in various pageants, and in June 2010, was named Perfect Miss Illinois. For the Warrenville resident, the fast-paced industry fostered her love of hair and makeup, leading her to enroll in classes at COD.

“I actually went to COD right out of high school for criminal justice, but after I finished and got a job I realized it wasn't what I wanted to do,” Dirks said. “My ultimate goal now is to finish school and I'd like to eventually travel and maybe work in the entertainment industry.”

The college's 46-credit hour Cosmetology program is offered at both the Addison and Naperville regional centers. Students enrolled may either obtain an Associate in Applied Science degree or a certificate, awarded through the College and the Technology Center of DuPage School of Cosmetology.

Throughout the program, students receive hands-on experience working with volunteer clients and completing various community projects, including visiting nursing homes and other charitable organizations, said coordinator Bea Brown.

Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for a cosmetology license from the State of Illinois.

While Dirks initially considered several schools, she decided on COD because of the length and strength of the program.

“My experience here has been wonderful and I've learned so much,” she said. “The skills I've learned here will definitely help me as I move forward.”

For more information on the Cosmetology program, call (630) 942-4700 or visit: http://www.cod.edu/cosmetology.