Jillian Duncan is a self-sufficient diva that has been styling hair since the 8th grade. This collegiette believes that one’s hair should match their attitude. To Duncan hair styling is more than just a hobby, it is also an extra income. She currently manages her very own hair company, The Classic Diva Chicago, which specializes in natural hair styling. During her sophomore year of college she spent great deal of time promoting the company by handing out her business cards on campus. Clients have raved about her Senegalese twist, as well as her Marley/Havana twist.
As if managing a business wasn’t enough, Duncan is also a full-time student that works part-time at the James Stukel Towers desk. The Houston native loves her busy schedule because she thrives off of productivity.
Duncan recently spoke with us about her business, multi-tasking and her future plans. She hopes to grow her business while pursuing a successful acting career. This go-getter doesn’t plan on slowing down any time soon.
To find out more information and view more of her work, visit The Classic Diva Chicago.
Name: Jillian Duncan
Year: Senior
Major: Political Science Minor: Psychology
Hometown: Houston, TX
Hobbies/Interests: I am an aspiring actress! I want to be a film/television actress. I love to play video games too. I’ve traveled to Europe when I was 15yrs old and this was my motivation for going to school at UIC. I love travel so I want to live in Europe for some time. I am a political science major so professionally I’d like to become a Child Advocate with my degree. A child advocate is basically an attorney for children where I tell the judge what’s in the best interest of the child.
When did you start styling hair?
I started styling in 8th grade. I learned how to do it from my aunt then little by little I began charging for my skill. During my sophomore year of college I made business cards and began promoting on campus! This skill has been years in the making and I’m still learning new tricks every day.
What was the motivation behind founding The Classic Diva Chicago?
I started the classic diva because I needed an extra income. That was my main motivation too. Lol I had a skill that others as well as myself could benefit from. I’m an only child and my mother made sure I was self efficient so I took that logic and ran with it
.Is there a specific type of style that you consider a specialty?
What other responsibilities do you have besides The Classic Diva Chicago? How are you able to manage a business with your other obligations?
Well I’m a full time student. 16hrs and I work at the JST desk. I’m able to manage everything by God’s grace, so the business is not an extra headache it’s an addition to my life and I don’t mind it one bit.
After graduating I plan to be acting full time! I’m hoping to get an agent and already have jobs lined up. Acting is my passion and I can’t see myself doing anything else. I know its a timing thing, so I’m waiting on God’s timing. Acting is my gift and that’s how I will make money doing something I love.
Where do you see the company in 5 years?
In 5yrs I would love to extend it and get others to do the braiding. I believe in owning multiple sources of income and I feel that would be a great income source. Hopefully my acting will take me to a point where I can afford to run/start up an actual location for the business. The hair business is booming and every woman should learn how to do it because as women we always love to have our hair done.
How can people find out more about The Classic Diva?
If people would like to know more they can visit: The Classic Diva Chicago, or visit me personally I’m conveniently located on South campus at MRH. Pricing, pictures, and more is available on the website!