Beauty At Tech

Hi, my name is Gabriella Acosta! My time as a Cosmetology student at SECTA has been an unforgettable experience filled with growth, challenges, and meaningful connections. I chose cosmetology because I’ve always loved helping others feel more confident and beautiful in their own skin, and this program gave me the opportunity to do exactly that! Over time, I discovered that my favorite skills revolve around hair, especially styling and color, but I also enjoy doing nails, particularly nail art, as a creative outlet.

While I don’t have one specific favorite memory, what I’m most grateful for is the friendships I built along the way. The girls I met in this program became such an important part of my journey, and they made even the long, exhausting days more enjoyable. One of the biggest challenges for me was definitely the hours. The days could feel long and draining, but in the end, it was all worth it because of how much I’ve learned and grown.

Another major part of my experience was being involved in SkillsUSA. It brought me closer to some of my closest friends and helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. Serving as the Nevada State Officer President for the 2025–2026 term was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! It taught me leadership, confidence, and skills that I will carry with me throughout my life. SkillsUSA is a place where you truly get to see people grow, step out of their comfort zones, and thrive.

One important lesson I learned is that not everything will go exactly as planned. In cosmetology, things can change quickly, and you have to be able to problem-solve and stay calm under pressure. Keeping a steady mindset is key to avoiding stress and continuing to improve.

After graduation, I plan to work in a hair salon where I can continue building my skills and gaining experience. I also plan to further my education in college, and in the future, I hope to come back and teach cosmetology. My advice to future students is to always give it your all, not just on the lab floor, but also in the classroom during theory. Cosmetology is more than just hands-on work; it requires knowledge, dedication, and a willingness to keep learning.

Hi, my name is Cassandra. My experience at SECTA as a cosmetology student has been incredible and filled with so many meaningful memories. Throughout the program, I’ve learned that stepping out of my comfort zone, no matter how intimidating it may feel, can lead to valuable opportunities that make it all worthwhile. Each experience I’ve been given has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

While I enjoyed working on nails and makeup, what I valued most were the connections I built along the way. Joining SkillsUSA was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It allowed me to meet new people and strengthen relationships with those I see every day. I was fortunate enough to travel to Atlanta for SkillsUSA Nationals 2025, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to experience it again this summer. None of this would have been possible without my amazing teachers, Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Halstead, who consistently encouraged me to do my best, thank you for your support and belief in me.

After graduation, I plan to continue my education in esthetics, and I’m excited to see where this next chapter takes me.

To incoming cosmetology students: when you feel like giving up, push yourself a little harder. Let discouragement motivate you to keep going. Stay focused, and don’t be afraid to ask your teachers for help, they are there to support you and help you succeed.

Overall, my experience has been truly unforgettable, and I will always be grateful for the incredible opportunities I’ve been given.

Heyy I’m Arianny, and cosmetology has truly been one of the biggest and best parts of my life. From day one I found something I genuinely love. Cosmo wasn’t always easy but every challenge helped me grow and I’m so proud of everything I’ve accomplished along the way. I’ve learned so much, built my confidence, and found what I’m really passionate about. These past years have been full of fun, hard work, and memories I’ll never forget. The friendships, the laughs, the busy days, and even the stressful moments made it special. I’m so thankful for my teachers who supported me, believed in me, and helped me become the person I am today (they will help if you take the help). And to all my family and friends for pushing me and supporting me i love you alll. You guys all mean so much to me and I couldn’t have done it without you. I’m really proud of how far we’ve all come. This is such a big accomplishment and if I can do it anyone can! I truly love cosmetology and I can’t wait to see what’s to come not just for me but for everyone whether you stay in this career or not!  I’m going to miss this chapter in my life more than I can explain but I’ll carry everything I’ve learned with me. Cosmo will always have a place in my heart 🤍✨

Hi, My name is Isa and I am a graduating cosmetology student here at Beauty at Tech! Being in cosmo has allowed me to grow so much both in the beauty industry and personally. I have met the sweetest people who have pushed me to be better in every aspect of life here at SECTA. My instructors, Ms. Sandoval and Mrs. Cruz have shown me my true passion for this industry and how far hard work and dedication goes. Some of my favorite memories include the SLC in Reno where I competed for nail care (DO SKILLS) and Ms. Sandoval’s birthday field trip. After high school I plan on pursuing a career in nails, brows, and hair while continuing my education to go into the medical profession. My advice for future cosmo students would be to always put intention and thought into your work. It will always reflect. It is hard to be confident but you are capable of incredible and amazing things. You will see so much growth and passion. It may be hard sometimes but I PROMISE it’s worth it. Stay on top of your grades, love yourself, and remember to lead with kindness and grace :)!

Hi, my name is Danna. I just want to start off by saying that senior year really does pass by in the blink of an eye. I remember being a junior and thinking, “next year, next year,” and let me tell you, it goes by really quick.

Cosmetology has always been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I always loved getting my nails and hair done and just being dolled up. I am so beyond grateful for this opportunity because it was honestly life changing. I couldn’t imagine what my life would be like at my old high school, so I’m truly grateful I had the chance to accomplish a dream at such a young age.

I’m grateful for the lessons, discipline, and knowledge we were taught, because that’s something we’ll carry into our careers. One of the biggest things I took from Cosmo is that if you really want something, you have to stay consistent and disciplined, and that mindset is something I’ll carry with me into everything I do.

We all take different things from our experiences, but my favorite memories were in Skills, being nervous for competitions, and the memories we created in Reno. I encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone, because you never know what you might be missing.

For me, that passion is leading me to attend UNLV, where I’ll be pursuing a degree in business while continuing to grow my lash business, something I’ve built with time, dedication, and practice. Cosmetology gave me the confidence to dream bigger. I am so proud of all of us, and I truly can’t wait to see where life takes everyone.

Going into cosmetology, I knew it’d be tough; we were warned about the workload, the infamous cosmo department drama, and the stress that comes with it. But, being entirely honest, these have been the best two years of my life. I remember how afraid I was my first day: I thought I wasn’t supposed to wear my scrubs because no one else seemed to be wearing any. Obviously I was supposed to, but I was still scared. The attachment you get from being with the same people every day for over 1600 hours is like no other. I know it’s corny to say it, but this department is like a family: some people you don’t get along with, you have a favorite or two, and some times you argue, but you’re always there for each other (even if it’s only for their spare nail file). Over these years, I’ve learned how much I was made for this career and how deeply I love what I do. You shouldn’t be afraid to try other things; even if you think you’ll like nails, you may find a passion in hair, or maybe in skin! I didn’t. I loved hair from the get-go, but that wasn’t the case for everyone! Be kind to those around you. We all have bad days and everyone thinks differently, so the best thing you can do is forgive and move on. Treat your foes good but your friends great. Listen to your teachers: they’ll be your number one supporters! The more you listen, the more you’ll learn, grow, and the less mad they’ll be… I’m only kinda kidding… Enjoy your time in the department and take every opportunity you get. Don’t forget how lucky you are to have this spot!

(P.S. SkillsUSA is super stressful, but it’s worth it!)

1st Place 🥇 2026 Gala Showcase
MCJ’s

McKenzi S., Caylene L., Jayla E.

2nd Place 🥈 2026 Gala Showcase

Pearlessence

Aubrey, Tatiana, Vanessa
Photographer: Leanne V

Teaching future Cosmo professionals during SkillsUSA Week + Spirit Week chaos? All in a day’s work. 😅✂️✨
at.tech skillsusa

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