Stephen and Rachel Skinner

Stephen and Rachel Skinner in a classroom. Stephen and Rachel Skinner decided to put their children first by coming back to school.

Stephen and Rachel Skinner decided to put their children first by coming back to school. Rachel, HCC Cosmetology student, wants a better life for her kids than a waitressing job would ever allow. And Stephen, HCC Therapeutic Massage student, wants the kids to know how important a college education is.

“Actions speak louder than words,” Stephen says. He has worked in management for 18 years and is now ready to embark on a field that has always interested him.

The couple would love to gain experience in their respective fields and eventually open their own bed and breakfast, offering a full retreat to guests.

“We love to entertain, cook, and fellowship,” Stephen says. “With a bed and breakfast, we could combine everything we enjoy into one package.”

The Skinners also enjoy service to others. Rachel says she enjoys interacting with clients. “It’s the little things you can do to make people feel better about themselves.”

For Stephen, Therapeutic Massage is the perfect way to give people the human touch. “Many people don’t realize how much massage can help and heal.”

But with three children, no one said having both parents in school would be easy. The Skinners have a very hectic schedule. Between track and Scouts, daycare, and schools schedules, homework for the kids and themselves, the days are long.

“I focus on the end result,” Rachel says. “When I finish school, my career will offer more flexibility. I’ll be able to spend more time with my kids.”

The Skinners chose HCC because it is close to home and convenient. They enjoy the diverse student body. Rachel says that students in cosmetology are close-knit and support each other.

“The instructors make sure that we have the knowledge and are able to pull from it,” Stephen says.

“When you enjoy what you do and have your heart in it, you can do amazing things,” Rachel says.

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