Nails 101: A Student Blog

Week 1: Excitement and Balancing School and Parenting

by NAILS Magazine | May 5, 2011 | Bookmark +

My first week balancing being a part-time student and a full-time mother was exciting, educational, and at times demanding. I managed and I made it: come on Week 2 I am so ready to see you!

I must say it's hard to even get out the door when my 3-year-old is demanding I stay! The best and only consolation I have is I know this bit of separation will build the confidence in my child and help her to build trust in others beyond just mommy and daddy. Big hugs, many kisses, and reassurance that I will be back has been what gets me out the door. My first day driving to class I drove with excitement. I was thinking about how I've never paid to attend a school that gives me such excitement, incorporates art, and in the end I'll receive payment for a service that is as enjoyable for the client as it is for myself. I want my clients to leave with the mindset "I just wanna show the world!" The client or customer in any given business is not always right, but should in any case be served to the highest standards of practice. Great service keeps the client excited, ready to schedule the next appointment, and helps allows client to pass on the word as to where and how to receive the service they deserve.

The school dress code is all black,a scrub uniform. At first sight I thought this makes every bit of sense in this industry considering it's not about you, it's about the client. Nails are not about what color I'm wearing, the color and art should radiate from the properly serviced client's nails. The week consisted basically of the understanding, use, and sanitation of implements, manicure station, the client and beauty professionals to provide a safe and healthy experience. Bacteria is BaD! Always ask before you use nippers ("Ask before you nip!").

Basic first aid and CPR are not required, but we did go over this and I feel in the nail industry these certifications should be required because situations arise that we have no control of but we can do our part by knowing correct procedures to administer until emergency personel arrive. Many lives have been saved with this knowledge.

The Basic Manicure was taught and demonstrated, along with the correct pricing for this type of manicure. The polish 3 stroke method was taught and demonstrated. Practice included giving a manicure to a student and then receiving the service as well from a student. Instructors stand or sit near to watch, listen, provide assistance, and track progress for reporting.
 
Overall it was a great week and the teaching staff and fellow students were very helpful and welcoming. It's hard to know your way around the first week considering most of the students at my school are here for cosmetology. This makes for a packed salon of students to practice on, but it's crowded.

I can't wait to design and decorate a pointed nail. There's so much to say that it's hard to stop typing, so please feel free to ask me any questions!  Week 2 here I come...SNAP...There is no way Week 2 can be boring -- I get to practice on clients (but I can only receive tips not pay). Anyone who has this opportunity have the confidence and take the chance!

— Marti

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