The Professional Beauty Association’s (PBA) renowned Beacon competition provides the nation’s most promising cosmetology students with education and opportunities to network with the industry’s highest profile salon owners, professionals, and stylists during PBA Beauty Week, held in Las Vegas July 23-25, 2016. The entry process is designed to help guide the entrant from student to salon professional by effectively and aggressively preparing for successful careers. Entries are judged on creativity, professionalism, and a professional portfolio. The deadline to enter is February 25, 2016.

To compete, you must be a student enrolled in an appropriate program (cosmetology, esthetics, nail technicians, etc.) in the U.S. or Canada between September 1, 2015 and February 25, 2016. Former Beacon attendees are not eligible to re-apply. Note: You must be 18 years of age or older to attend the Beacon event in Las Vegas. Entry materials include a professional resume, a letter of recommendation, a portfolio of images showcasing your talent in your chosen career path (hair, nails, skin, etc.), and a professional marketing piece. Examples, tips, and more information on each of these components is available on the PBA website. The entry fee is $35 for PBA student members, and $50 for non-members.

New for 2016: Beacon Applicant Scholarship. Beacon entrants now have the opportunity to receive a scholarship to cover entry fees. The deadline for applying for the scholarship is February 18th, 2016.

Funded by the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation (AGDF), The Beacon Applicant Scholarship rewards up to 1,000 eligible recipients. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and students must be eligible for the 2016 Beacon program to be eligible for the scholarship.

Visit the PBA website to learn more.

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For more information about your career in nails, check out NAILS Career Handbook.