Khyler Yockey's Lakeland College experience was transformative. While she came to the college anxious, uncertain and shy, this Class of 2022 graduate left with a provincial gold medal and a national bronze, ready to take on the world.

Yockey, from Lloydminster, Alta., chose Lakeland because it was close to home and offered the opportunity for a more personal, one-on-one learning experience in esthetics. While she mastered the clinical esthetician curriculum, Yockey also grew on a personal level.

“As an individual struggling with mental health issues, my anxiety controlled my life before coming to the college,” she says. “My instructors and classmates helped me gain confidence in myself and come out of my shell. I quickly found that Lakeland was a safe place where everyone can feel accepted and welcomed.”

These lessons were learned both in the classroom, in Lakeland's student-run spa, and on the provincial and national stage where Yockey represented Lakeland at Skills Alberta and SkillsCanada.

“These were such life-changing experiences that have helped me develop both my personal and professional skills,” says Yockey, who credits the encouragement from her instructors, including Deb Minish, with convincing her to participate in the competitions. “It was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that wouldn't have been possible without the support of the staff and students at Lakeland.”

Yockey first competed in SkillsAlberta, winning gold in the aesthetics category, which earned her a spot representing Alberta at SkillsCanada, where she competed in the Team Canada track. There were a few skills she was tested on at the national level that are not part of Lakeland's curriculum, so while Yockey finished up her program, she spent any spare time learning lashes and sugaring. She practiced on classmates and mannequins, preparing for the competition.

“I really learned a lot professionally and personally about being able to adapt when things weren't going as planned,” Yockey says. “I learned how to adapt and bounce back, and focus on what I can control.”

Winning won bronze at SkillsCanada, Yockey credits her success and her new confidence to her experience at Lakeland.

“My instructors inspired me and pushed me to be the best,” she says. “They are so passionate and genuinely care for the success and well-being of all their students. They helped me find my passion and that is the most valuable thing in the world.

“I have learned how to push past my comfort zones and have trust in myself. That is something I will never forget.”