Meet the Winner of the Professional Japanese Shear Giveaway

Congratulations Nakia! This recent grad received her California cosmetology license this past March after graduating from MTI: College, Paul Mitchell The School in Sacramento, CA. Landing her first job quickly, Esteen works at COLORS Salon and Education, located in the Midtown area of Sacramento with Dean Rhodes and Ginger Wong! The salon is really big on education and has an amazing team of many talented people, Esteen told us, which helps her hairstylist’s philosophy. “My motto is to be a DayMaker to every person that sits in my chair. You never know whose life you can change! Join David Wagner's DayMaker Movement!!! It's truly life changing!”

Esteen also had lots to say about working in the industry, interviewing tips and how to stand out when interviewing in the beauty industry. We asked her to shed some light on becoming a successful hairstylist and are excited to see what she has to say about her cosmetology school. 

Q: When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in the beauty industry?
A: I knew I wanted a career in the beauty industry after my second year in college., I didn't feel happy with my career choice, and I realized I can take on my great grandmother and grandmother’s career as a hairstylist! My first day at Paul Mitchell proved me right! This was one of the best decisions I could have made.

Q: What were the most beneficial lessons you learned at cosmetology school?
A: The most benefiting lessons I learned at cosmetology school were: Sanitation, commitment and never take advantage of any educational opportunities that may cross your path.

Q: What do you like best about being a hairstylist?
A: The best part of being a hairstylist is we get paid to have fun doing what we love!

Q: What is one beauty item you could not live without?
A: I could not live without my SHEARS!! The haircut is the foundation to any hairstyle.

Q: What’s your favorite type of hair style or technique to perform?
A: I absolutely LOVE Extensions!

Q: What is your favorite magazine to pull hairstyles ideas from?
A: Vanity Fair.

Q: Feather hair extensions are becoming a popular hair trend. Are you for or against them?
A: For them - It’s a big trend!! I'm for any type of hair extension! I do feathers as well.

Q: Which celebrity do you think has outstanding hair?
A: I love the Kardashian’s hair!!!

Q: How big of a role did your look book play during your interview process?
A: Having a solid look book is what may separate you from the other applicants! For me, it boosted my interview to that 110%.

Q: What should a cosmetology student do while in school to prepare themselves on finding a job after graduation?
A: Get together a look book, portfolio, and resume while in school where you have professionals there to ensure you are interview ready by the time graduation comes!

Q: What advice would you give to cosmetology students looking to land a job in the hair industry?
A: Interview as many salons you can, even if you have found your dream salon, just to make sure you are where you want to be! Also, check for an education program within your salon.

We'd like to extend a special thank you to everyone who entered the Professional Hair Shear contest. The contest wouldn't be possible without the support of those passionate about the beauty industry. Want to connect with our winner? Follow Nakia on Twitter.