What is the most gratifying part of being an esthetician/massage therapist?
You will meet some amazing people and you have the chance to make each of them feel better, happier, and more confident. I truly believe we need more of that in the world. It is something you can be proud of, and it really changes not just how you feel about going to work, but your approach in all aspects of your life.
What is your proudest accomplishment in your role instructing aspiring estheticians and massage therapists?
It is impossible to choose, each one of my students have taught me something in return, but to witness their passion, drive, and success and to know I had a small part in that journey makes me very proud.
In what ways do you encourage creativity in your classroom?
I want my students to take a part in creating their own learning experience. Every student processes information in different ways, and that is okay! Lectures, reading, group activities… they are all valuable. I want my students to process and bring all of their knowledge from all of their different subjects together in ways where they have FUN doing it! Then it is about TEAMWORK and having MULTIPLE STUDY METHODS that helps to create dialogue in the classroom. I think most of us remember conversations better than listening to a list of facts without any application to real world experience. I want my students to ask the questions and dive in for the answers!
What is one of the most valuable things you have learned in your profession?
You have to practice self-care, no matter how busy you get. Its tough work, being on your feet all day, giving as much of yourself as you can to your clients. It is okay to take time to get a massage or a facial. If we are not at our best, we cannot bring our best to our clients!
What is your favorite song and why?
November Rain. My brother was obsessed with it and played in on repeat all the time. It always reminds me of him, I can still see the music video in my mind whenever I hear it.
