When I was a senior in high school and had to decide on my future, I strongly wanted to continue playing baseball, which I had been doing since I was a child. I was hoping to go to college so I could keep playing.

At the same time, however, I couldn’t clearly imagine what kind of career I wanted after graduating from college. I began to question whether going to university was really the right path for me.

During that time, I decided to consider becoming a hairstylist, partly because my mother was one. I grew up watching her work as a hairstylist, and I admired her. Still, I also had the impression that being a hairstylist in Japan was a very demanding job, so I honestly felt unsure.

Once I actually began working, though, I started to feel the joy of seeing clients leave the salon with smiles on their faces, and I found happiness in gradually becoming able to do more and more on my own. In those moments, I strongly realized how rewarding and fulfilling this profession can be.

Through meeting many clients in both Japan and the United States, I have come to understand even more deeply the appeal of being a hairstylist, as well as the responsibility that comes with it.

I hope to continue being a hairstylist who can bring happiness to many people.

— Hibiki