Cosmetology Student Success Story: Carmen Gunkel
About Carmen Gunkel
Vibrant is just one of the words that comes to mind when describing Ms. Carmen Gunkel, a student from our North Seattle campus. We can attribute that vibrancy to many things, from her bright hair color to her energetic personality. The unique flair and zest for life and all it has to offer is what makes Carmen, Carmen. It is also what was driving Ms. Carmen before she started school. “I have a passion for teaching, and taught partner dancing along with hosting social dance nights as a Dj in Seattle for the last 7 years which has let me share my love for music and dance with others,” shares Carmen. Ms. Carmen has changed her career three times and hasn’t looked back, “I am not afraid to start over, to learn new things, and to work hard for my success.” Switching it up, Carmen decided to pursue her Cosmetology license which will give diverse knowledge in the business aspect of this industry along with everything hair.
My Carmen Gunkel, a future professional in our Cosmetology program, created a beautiful new color that’s finished with soft curls.
The Evergreen Experience
Not only vibrant, but curious, fearless, and supportive are just some of the wonderful qualities of Ms. Carmen Gunkel. Carmen is in the spotlight this month for the work that she has been putting-in to establish herself as a stylist.
When asked what made her choose Evergreen Ms. Carmen stated, “The school’s culture was the number one reason I enrolled. Anybody can be successful when your in a nurturing environment, and that’s exactly what I found at EBC. All the professionals teaching here are encouraging, knowledgeable, and caring. Everyone, from the Campus Director to the ladies at the front desk, does their part in such a big way that they contribute to the healthy learning environment here.” Evergreen’s founder and intrepid leader Ms. Thi has even added to the richness of the culture, “Mama Thi gives me a hug every-time she sees me! Not many students can say that about their school’s founder. All of this pushes me to try to be the best student I can be,” exclaims Ms. Carmen.
With the halfway point of her schooling on the horizon, Ms. Carmen thinks the most valuable part of the program thus far has been all the hands on practice with real clients she’s had, “I learn so much every day!” Although she benefits from the lessons learned during each interaction and service Carmen shares, “In my heart of hearts my favorite thing is color formulations, and different coloring techniques. I love getting to make a unique formula for each client because it’s a way I’m able to give them a personalized experience.” Pondering if she has any strengths or specialties, Carmen states, “If I had to take a gander, I guess I’d say color again! I feel like every person in my chair so far has left very satisfied with their color service.”
As clients lighten up their hair for Spring, Ms. Carmen Gunkel gives this particular client all the blondes you could ask for.
The Next Step
At this point in our post about Ms. Carmen we hope that we have been able to capture enough of her spirit for you to be invested in where this journey will take her, “As a new professional to the industry, I will be looking carefully for mentor-ship from others who are willing to inspire and teach. I just hope to find a good salon or spa to take me in and show me the ropes of the industry,” Carmen says. With the experience gained out in the field Carmen hopes to become a well rounded hairstylist so that one day she can run her own full service salon or spa.
Knowing what’s to come may not be so clear just yet but Ms. Carmen knows that it will be her interpersonal know-how that will contribute to the building of her clientele. “When my clients sit in my chair they are the most important person. I make them feel heard and cared for, I invest myself into the service and suggest things that would suit them and work for them specifically. I want my clients to have an experience not just a haircut. I want them to leave feeling beautiful, renewed, and empowered,” offers Carmen.
As for what will give her a competitive edge in an industry that is always growing with a steady flow of new hairdressers, it will once again be her compassion and integrity, “I care for my clients, I invest in my training and practice so I can give them a great service without cutting corners.”
For others debating taking that big jump into something new Carmen has these words of advice, “Don’t wait to achieve your dreams. I waited too long in life to really start doing what I was meant to do and now I can’t be happier. Get organized, make a life plan, and go for it! You’ll never find a place as invested in your success as Evergreen Beauty College, fully embrace it and enjoy every second of the learning journey because it goes by so fast.” How beautiful is that?
Ms. Carmen is set to graduate early Fall of this year. Congratulations to our future professional Carmen Gunkel, this is one valiant boss lady to watch. To follow Carmen, and stay up to date on her growth you can find her on Instagram: @carmens.chromatic.cuts .
If you are interested in pursuing a career in the beauty industry take the Beauty Biz Readiness Quiz, you can also check out our programs or contact us at one of our five locations: Mount Vernon, Everett, North Seattle, Renton, and Yakima.
