This post is based on an interview with William Paparella, Shear Ego International School’s Artistic Director, and has been written to capture his insights and experiences.

As Artistic Director at Shear Ego International School, my journey has been shaped by a deep love for both the craft of hairdressing and the people who make this industry so vibrant. My roots in hairdressing run deep—my family owned salons even before I was born, and I grew up surrounded by the hum of blow dryers, the scent of hair products, and the artistry of stylists. I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian parents who had emigrated there, but I spent much of my life between Italy, Spain, and Argentina, where I honed my skills and developed my passion for the beauty industry.

At 17, I began cutting hair professionally, and since then, I’ve worked in a variety of settings, from high-end salons in Europe to television and film productions in Argentina. But what has always stood out to me, and what I bring to my role here, is the importance of people. Hairdressing is about more than just cutting or styling hair; it’s about connecting with people, understanding their needs, and helping them feel confident and beautiful.

When I took on the role of Artistic Director at our school, I knew I wanted to create an environment where students could not only learn the technical skills needed to succeed but also develop their creativity and individuality. My approach is simple: I don’t teach; I share knowledge. Every student is different, and my goal is to inspire them to find their own path in this industry. I believe in guiding them, not by imposing rigid rules, but by helping them discover safe, effective ways to express their creativity.

One of the unique aspects of our school is that we have an Artistic Director—a role that is not common in most cosmetology schools. This gives our students an edge. We go beyond just preparing them for state board exams; we prepare them for the real world of high-end hairdressing. We teach them to think outside the box, to push boundaries, and to be ready for whatever challenges they may face in their careers.

Being an Artistic Director is also about staying current with trends. In my role at Shear Ego Salon & Spa, I work alongside new and seasoned stylists, constantly learning from them and bringing fresh ideas into the classroom. This continuous learning process ensures that our students are always at the forefront of what’s happening in the industry.

For me, the most fulfilling part of this role is seeing our students grow. Whether it’s watching them perfect a new technique or seeing them gain confidence as they start working with clients, it’s the day-to-day progress that makes me proud. I’m here to support them every step of the way, helping them navigate challenges and celebrating their successes.

At our school, we believe that having an Artistic Director isn’t just a title—it’s a commitment to providing our students with an exceptional education that goes beyond the basics. We’re here to develop not just skilled stylists, but creative, confident professionals ready to make their mark on the beauty industry.