As a child, I always had extremely long hair, long enough to touch the back of my thighs. It was always so thick and pretty, because my mother's hair is also like that. Naturally, it became shorter over time, but it's always been considered long.

Kelsi Mills

I've transitioned in and out of different phases with my hair: bangs, choppy layers, and even the colorful streaks during middle school.

Kelsi Mills

I cut it the shortest it had ever been about three years ago, and it was still a pretty long length. This time, however, I knew a change needed to happen. I was going back to college for my sophomore year, and recruitment was the next week, so I needed a fresh look. The balata get he done a couple years ago had grown out, and looked brassy, so my goal was to get my natural hair color again. The original plan was not to cut it all off, but I couldn't be more happy with the results.

Kelsi Mills

I didn't have a ton of money, and my budget was definitely not able to cover an expensive salon charge, so I went to Great Clips, where I've had the best and worst hair memories. I hadn't been there for about even years or so, because I either avoiding getting my hair done, or would go to a salon. This particular session was amazing, and my beautician was an absolute dream. She made me feel comfortable from the get-go and held a deep conversation about RuPaul's Drag Race the entire time.

My cut took only 10 minutes, and was $14, before the tip. Now, don't get me wrong, I know Great Clips isn't the best option for an extensive cut, and can be a bold choice in a salon, but I was so blown away at the fact it was quick, enjoyable, and affordable.

Now that I'm back for recruitment week, I've received so many compliments on my hair, and tons of my sisters have noticed the change in looks. The most common remark is, "Kelsi, your hair is so cute!" I know that reassurance from others shouldn't be something you worry about or look for, but it feels so good to be noticed whenever you do something different.

I think I'll keep my hair at this length, because it's so much easier to maintain, and I spend a lot less on shampoo and conditioner.

So, my biggest piece of advice for someone needing a change of looks, to strengthen their confidence, or if you're just bored, cutting your hair seems so simple and easy, but can change all of the small things, to make your big things better.