Anaise Miller
Lifelong Compton resident Anaise Miller views her ability to care for others as a
gift from God. She cherishes the joy she finds in her role as a hairstylist and the
calm that comes from helping someone navigate tough times. Growing up in a family
of hairstylists, Miller sees her work as an opportunity to blend her creativity with
her desire to uplift others, helping them to look and feel their best. And though
her life is fulfilling – she is a proud mother of two young children and an accomplished
stylist – Miller always dreamed of furthering her education.
So, she enrolled at Compton College and began a successful educational journey that
required dedication and resilience. In 2024, she graduated with honors, earning an
associate degree in cosmetology with a minor in sociology. Looking back, she remembers
her time at Compton College as a series of blessings: “Every day was a highlight for
me. Just having the chance to be there was a gift.” She was particularly proud to
make the Dean’s List and is deeply thankful for the support she received along the
way.
“My success at Compton College was made possible by the belief and care of the staff,”
she said. “They listened to me and stood by me through thick and thin. From guidance
with financial aid to tutoring and supporting me during my doubts, it felt like a
true partnership. I couldn’t have achieved this without the dedicated professors and
counselors who helped me pursue my dream of obtaining a bachelor’s degree.”
Miller’s path wasn’t without its struggles. Balancing rigorous coursework with family
commitments was a challenge, especially after facing the heartbreaking loss of her
parents and brother. Nonetheless, she remained determined.
“I leaned on my faith,” she said. “There were times when my grades dipped, but I turned
things around. It’s essential to keep pushing forward. It’s okay to feel what you
need to feel, but you must keep moving ahead. My message to everyone is simple: Never
give up.”
In the upcoming fall semester, Miller will transfer to California State University,
Dominguez Hills, to continue her studies in sociology. She aspires to broaden her
hairstyling career into new areas where she can provide care on multiple levels. From
creating eco-friendly hair products to addressing hair loss, she sees countless opportunities
to make a difference in people’s lives.
“I love bringing joy to others through my work,” she said. “I have a special passion
for helping those dealing with hair loss, especially since my sister is a breast cancer
survivor and my mother passed away from the disease. I am dedicated to supporting
those affected by hair loss due to cancer treatments and other conditions. As I study
sociology, I'm learning to connect with my clients on a deeper level — not just through
conversation, but by uplifting and inspiring them. If I can positively impact someone’s
life through my words and my craft, that’s the ultimate dream.”