Senior Julie Rocco has excelled in the cosmetology program at Career Institute of Technology (CIT). Her work has an element of creativity that makes it stand out among all others.

As a child, Rocco always had a passion for hair and makeup. When she got to high school, Rocco deemed it important to obtain her cosmetology license as fast as she could in order to pursue her dreams.

“I wanted to graduate with my license and be ahead of the game. I also didn’t want to waste time, and I wanted to save money. I knew what I wanted to be, so why wait?” Rocco said.

Being a part of CIT has given Rocco many different opportunities, especially exposure to competition in her field and in her current job.

“I’ve been assisting at Shear Design and Day Spa since 2016, so I plan on working there right after graduation,” Rocco said.

One of the biggest competitions CIT students are involved in is known as Skills USA, in which students from different technical schools statewide face off and display their level of field expertise.

Passing Skills USA with flying colors, Rocco placed first and qualified for states. In the competition, Rocco went head to head with 11 other opponents who were judged on a variety of different skills.

According to the Skills USA information page: “This contest evaluates the competitor’s skills in fantasy long hair design, hair coloring techniques, men’s and women’s haircut and styling. Communication skills, a written test, styling skills, originality, creativity, use of tools, and safety are also evaluated in this competition.”

For Rocco, the competition allowed her to really shine.

“My favorite is probably the creative updo. I like to make it look like a runway style. It’s crazy and fun!” Rocco said.

States is held at Hershey Park in April. There, Rocco will not only be representing Bangor and CIT, but also the entirety of District 11.

All the years of experience, competitions, and practices are what will make Rocco stand out amongst her peers.

When the curling iron cools and the hairspray settles, Rocco moves onto her next passion—softball. She is a second baseman for the lady Slaters softball team.

“I’m going into my last year of softball and I’m really looking forward to it!” Rocco said.

Although the past 13 years haven’t always been the easiest, Rocco’s love for softball and support from her teammates always been uplifting.

“My favorite thing about softball is the girls. I love growing with them, supporting each other, and playing the game we love together,” Rocco said.

Between her passion for cosmetology and her love for softball, Rocco is a well-rounded individual. Her fun-loving personality as well as her incredible creativity will allow her to thrive in the future.