As a young child, Lumberton native Shannon Hunt spent several years watching her mom style hair; that was her career inspiration. Fast-forward several years later and Hunt is inspiring others to obtain their goals as Southeastern Community College’s newest cosmetology instructor. 

Hunt’s favorite part of being an instructor at SCC is the work environment and learning from lead instructor Eli High.  

“She is always excited, and I love her desire to improve the cosmetology department,” Hunt said. “Because she’s here not just so everyone will pass the state board, but she makes them ready when they graduate. They’re ready to hit the floor running, and I like that.” 

Hunt’s favorite interaction with her students is “seeing the lightbulb come on when they get it.” Helping her students in the introductory cosmetology classes has “all been worth it to me.” 

Hunt said she is looking forward to the stability of working full-time at SCC and letting her “plant my roots as a teacher.” Hunt hopes to become a better instructor working under High and gaining experience in many areas of cosmetology.  

“I worked in a candy plant for a couple of years, and I didn’t like the plant life,” Hunt said. “So, I thought, ‘What do I like to do?’ and thought about it while sitting in my car one day during lunch and dreading to go back inside.” 

At 25 years old, Hunt decided that hair was favorite thing to do and enrolled as a cosmetology student at Robeson Community College. She received her cosmetology license in 1997 and has worked in the hair industry since then.  

Hunt went back to school and graduated from Bladen Community College in 2021 to get certified in teaching cosmetology. She worked there for one semester as a cosmetology instructor. After that, she went to work at RCC for a year and a half as a cosmetology instructor. 

Outside of work, Hunt enjoys visiting her brother in Myrtle Beach on the weekends, spending time with her family and being a grandma. Hunt has one daughter, one son and one grandson. 

The SCC Salon & Spa is a simulated environment that enables students to develop their cosmetology skills and enhance their learning experiences. 

Haircare, skincare and nail care services are available to the public. Call the SCC Salon & Spa to make an appointment at 910-642–7554.