Katie Chamel graduated from Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Hammond and is currently following her dreams in the beauty industry. Read about her journey through her esthiology career and get some of her tips on how to have a successful career of your own.
What Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute did you graduate from?
The beautiful Hammond, LA location!
What does having an AVEDA education mean to you?
Having an AVEDA education means excellence. Employers recognize a great education and only want to hire the best in the industry. At the Institute I was truly prepared for everything I needed to launch into a blossoming esthiology career.
What was your favorite experience during your beauty school education?
I enjoyed being in a holistic environment. My time in the school has helped me to appreciate all beauty in nature. I’ve also strongly adopted Horst’s beliefs on positive effects, from how we interact with people to what we may eat. We’re always effecting the world around us.
Where are you currently working?
The Benefit Brow Bar within Ulta Beauty in Harahan, LA!
What does your job entail?
You’ll usually find me waxing or explaining how a specific foundation works! At the Benefit Brow Bar we shape eyebrows to flatter your facial features, do full-face waxings, brow tints, and lash applications! It’s so much fun and very fulfilling to make a difference in a womens day-to-day life!
How did you get to this point?
I started working as a Freelancer for Benefit Cosmetics, traveling to different stores and helping with their product line in June 2014, fresh out of Aveda! I was planning to take State Boards in September and around that time there was going to be another Brow Bar opening. The store manager at this location held a waxing position for me because of my salesmanship and go-getter attitude!
What is your ultimate career goal, and how do you plan on achieving it?
My ultimate career goal is to travel the United States, educating and training Benefit employees on new service techniques and product! I will remain on the radar for a promotion by maintaining high sales per hour and keeping my clientele rebooked. I also find that truly adopting the brand you work for and embodying what they stand for is a great way to set yourself apart!
Do you have any advice for current AVEDA students or recent graduates?
Don’t wait until after you’ve passed state boards to start applying for jobs or putting yourself out there. I had my resume perfected before I graduated and started sending one out for every job listing I saw. Always strive for more and never settle!
Here are some of Katie’s before and after pictures of her work at the Benefit Brow Bar
