Ms. Fowler has been a National Academy instructor for 21 years. Having started her career after attending National Academy in 1985. She enjoyed the profession so much she continued her education and became an instructor.   What’s Changed Since You Started “The perception of cosmetology has changed with the times. When I started it was mostly hair cuts, now anything goes. Today’s Cosmetologists learn much more than 20 years ago. Cosmetology is now recognized as a serious well paying career with a future, after all hair always grows.”   Who Becomes A Cosmetologist “You have to be a people person, be involved, it’s fun. You build long-term relationships with clients; you have to care about people and like to give back. And you have to like to learn all the new advances and how your clients benefit from them, it’s exciting.”   Tell Us About Your Students “My students are wonderful; I always hate to see them leave. Over the years I’ve taught thousands, they feel like family. It’s very gratifying to see them go on and be successful. Hundreds of my past students have gone on to own their own salons and are doing great even in these tough times. I’m told there are five jobs for every licensed cosmetologist. Today students are more focused and realize the opportunities that exist in the field. They do their homework.”   How Do You Teach “I like to help people, at National Academy our process is total hands on. Students work with real people; each student is different, what works for Sally may not work for Jerry. We are all adults; I teach them how to be professionals. I feel like their all part of the family. And best of all they keep me young.”