16 Hours Down...584 to go!

Well, my first week of esthetician school is complete (minus one day)! I already feel like I've come a long way since Day 1, even if it hasn't been a lot of practical (hands-on) education. I was warned that my first day would be confusing and kind of a shock for me. There were people in my class at all different levels. Some had completed 200 hours, some had completed 500 hours (a total of 600 hours is needed to graduate). So, when I walked in, three girls were practicing for their state board exam, giving facials and doing make-up for fellow classmates. Everyone basically sat in silence. After our 30 minute break, the instructor did a demonstration on a chemical treatment using an electronic machine and an orange (the Vitamin C diminishes hyperpigmentation ;-)). A plethora of scientific terms were being thrown out, and I didn't know how much I was supposed to remember/learn/absorb. I was sure that I shouldn't worry about it too much, but at the same time, I didn't want to make assumptions...because you know about "assuming" and all. Same thoughts crossed my mind, when our instructor showed us a video on skin analysis..."should I be taking notes? How much do I need to be absorbing?" I came home overwhelmed and utterly baffled, wondering how it was going to get easier.

Between Wednesday and today, however, things have greatly changed. Wednesday was a super easy day, where I basically did nothing the first half of class (perhaps got rules and regulations - oh, and a tour of the school), and the second half, I received a facial. This gave me the chance to get to know a couple more people. Yesterday, another new student came in; she was a little shy, but very eager. We talked a bit, and it was nice to know that we were on the same page as far as our excitement towards the program (she didn't return tonight, so I hope she didn't change her mind). More conversations also happened towards the end of the night, where a few more classmates discovered my age ~ as always, shock and amazement followed. I was feeling good as I left, since I was starting to get comfortable with everyone. Then today, while I chatted with even more gals, I also had my first practical! Sanitation and disinfection. Aww yeah. My esthetician tools will be clean, ya'll (by state board regulations)! The night ended with a back facial...ahhhh... :-D

Having the opportunity to observe the other groups working on their practicals ~ whether it be on a mannequin head, classmates, or actual clients has really made me look forward to learning and practicing. I'm thinking more and more that it will be fun and satisfactory to work on clients, make 'em pretty with facials, waxing, and/or make-up. Make-up was my original route, but now I think, along with that, I'll be excited to offer other esthetician services, as well. :-)