Discovering Passion: Emilee’s Journey from Dentistry to Beauty

Emilee McPherson’s Story

Emilee’s journey into the beauty industry wasn’t a straight path.

Initially, she enrolled in dental assisting school while living in Arizona. However, she quickly realized that working with people’s mouths all day wasn’t quite her calling.

“I just couldn’t see myself having my hands in people’s mouths all day,” Emilee recalls with a laugh. Despite this detour, Emilee always had a love for all things beauty. Childhood dreams of running a salon with her cousin Lauren nudged her back toward her true passion, leading her to the nail tech program at Aveda Institute – Twin Falls.

Aveda Institute – Twin Falls: The Perfect Fit for Her Dreams

When it came time to choose a beauty school, Aveda Institute – Twin Falls turned out to be the perfect fit for Emilee.

Emilee and Lauren, who share an inseparable bond, embarked on their educational journey in beauty together. They enrolled on the same day and graduated together. Their friendship was so evident that during their graduation ceremony, their names were called simultaneously, a testament to their shared journey and dedication.

Emilee praises the support she received at Aveda Institute – Twin Falls, emphasizing how the school helped shape her into the professional she is today.

“They were amazing, and I definitely enjoyed learning the backstory of how nails became a thing. Learning about the anatomy of hands and feet was fascinating,” she shared.

Overcoming Setbacks and Embracing Success

Transitioning from student to professional brought its own set of challenges for Emilee, particularly finding clientele.

School taught her the importance of marketing and advertising, skills she actively applies by posting on social media, distributing flyers, and relying on word-of-mouth recommendations.

Emilee’s days are packed as she juggles two jobs to support herself while building her client base. She works at a local coffee shop and dedicates her Fridays and Saturdays to her true passion—nail art at the nail salon she co-owns with Lauren: Mary Jade Beauty.

“Being here on Fridays doing nails is kind of my way to get away from my other work life. I definitely relax on nail days just because I love being in here, and I love seeing my clients,” Emilee says.

Keys to Success: Determination and Prioritizing Mental Health

Emilee is a strong advocate for mental health, drawing from her personal experiences to underline its importance.

“I have struggled in the past with my own mental health, and I think that making sure that people are focusing on their mental health even while in school is extremely important,” she emphasizes.

Her message to current students is simple but powerful: “Don’t give up, even if it seems hard in the beginning. Just don’t give up on what you want to do.”

Celebrating Milestones and Future Aspirations

One of milestones Emilee is the most proudof was being invited back to Aveda Institute – Twin Falls with Lauren to judge the “Trashion Show” as an alumna.

“It was extremely good marketing [for Mary Jade Beauty], and it was fun to see all the things that people came up with,” she said, reflecting on the unique experience.