Nail Technology Student Success Story: Kamiel Salinas

About Kamiel Salinas

Before enrolling in beauty school, Kamiel was working behind a computer at an ophthalmology clinic. “After 4 years, I felt like there was little to no room for growth or promotion and I felt like I had maxed out my potential and needed to move up in life. I realized I wasn’t happy behind a computer all day and needed a career in creativity to challenge my artistic soul. I chose the nail program because I have always admired beautiful nails and have a passion for art and creativity. I started practicing nail art a few years ago and was encouraged to pursue this profession by my boss at the time and friends. It took a long time to work up the courage to take this leap but I am excited to finally begin my nail journey at Evergreen Beauty College.” Kamiel shared.
When asked why she chose Evergreen, Kamiel shared with us, “I chose Evergreen Beauty College because this program came highly recommended by others I know who have graduated already. Most schools don’t take time to teach nail art and primarily focus on passing exams. I could have easily gone to a local school, but I choose to commute 65 miles for a better experience and a better education!”

Evergreen Experience

All the programs we offer at Evergreen Beauty College have all types of fun and creative tasks, assignments, projects, etc. When asked about her favorite assignment so far, Kamiel says, “I love the daily themes my Educator assigns each week. Everyday is a new challenge and I get to practice a technique I may not have pushed myself to try on my own. Getting out of my comfort zone forces me to focus on areas I lack confidence or need improvement. With my educator and classmates support, I leave feeling accomplished rather than bored or defeated.”
As fun as assignments can be throughout your program, your favorite part of the program may not be related to a type of assignment or project. “My educator and my peers are the best! Everyone is very supportive, encouraging, and willing to give help at any time. Seeing my classmates and the future professionals in other phases grow their artistry and confidence in their skill is an endless flow of inspiration and motivation.”

As we finish talking about school and her program, we ask Kamiel what she believes her strengths and/or specialties are. “Before school, I was intimidated by forms and acrylic. As I go through my program they have easily become my favorite. My specialty seems to be creating custom acrylic powders. I enjoy mixing acrylic, glitter and confetti to create unique looks that I hope my future clients will look forward to and request over and over again.”

The Next Step

To some people talking about the future they want for their career can be scary. Kamiel shares with us her plans for after graduating the nail program. “I don’t want to rush into anything right away. I’m hoping to work in a salon and gain more experience and improve my skills and time. Once I am feeling confident in my craft, I would like to have a space of my own or booth rent. I’ve also considered teaching myself special effects nails in the hopes of one day collaborating on creature looks for movies or shows. That would be the ultimate dream! Additionally, working with my community is very important to me. I want to team up with my local homeless shelter and woman’s shelter to provide free services to men and woman. I know what a confidence boost that would be.”

We asked Kamiel what sets her apart from other Manicurists to where clients would book with her instead. She says, “Initially, as an artist, my goal was to master nail art and be able to deliver “Instagram nails” to my clients. However, now that I have discovered custom acrylics and encapsulating, I can’t stop! I want to be that Nail Tech everyone comes to for the looks they can’t get anywhere else. Whether it be custom acrylics or encapsulating. I want to provide a unique experience that has everyone asking “how did she do that?!”

Lastly, we had Kamiel think of some type of advice to give to any incoming students. “My best advice is to show up, no matter how tired you may be, and do the work. Make the most out of your time in class and utilize your educators an peers for support and feedback. Keep practicing and pushing yourself to improve each day. Don’t be too hard on yourself and don’t compare yourself to others.”

Kamiel is estimated to graduate in December of 2021. If you would like to follow her on Instagram, her handle is @clawsxmahz.

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 six locations: Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Everett, North Seattle, Renton, and Yakima.