A Casual Sit-down With Michelle Obama's Esthetician

Posted: March 5, 2013

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How did you end up in esthetic school?

At the time I was attending Columbia University and waiting tables. The esthetician who gave me my facials had the most awesome place, and I would talk about beauty with her constantly. Finally I asked her to tell me what I needed to become an esthetician. She said that I should attend the Dudley Beauty College, which has one of the best programs in Chicago. The director of that school attended my wedding a few weeks ago; she’s one of my mentors and has been a huge influence in my life.

What’s her name?

Betty Clawson. And you know, everyone who has come to work for the First Lady is a graduate of Dudley Beauty College, including the makeup artist who now works for Oprah.

Did you feel as though ethnic skin issues were addressed in the curriculum?