Pursue YOUR Goals…No Excuses!

For as long as she can remember, Amanda Villanueva had wanted a career in Cosmetology….

Originally from Alabama, Amanda and her husband moved to Iowa five years ago where she is currently enrolled at La’ James International College in Cedar Rapids! “I had been discouraged to start a career in Cosmetology but knew I always wanted to pursue this dream! When I originally moved up here, LJIC Cedar Rapids had not been opened yet so I explored other schools and just couldn’t find the right fit for me and my family.” Amanda began working at an office where she continued for five years till she knew it was the right time to pursue her passion! “I found out La’ James offered the Cosmetology Hybrid 3-Day Program and knew that was PERFECT for me! It provided me the right flexibility to go to school while supporting myself!”

While attending LJIC, Amanda has LOVED meeting new friends and exploring more opportunities within the beauty industry! “My journey has been so FUN! I have gotten to meet a lot of new people! I was worried at first, since I wasn’t from around here and didn’t know if I’d maintain a good clientele, but I’ve surprised myself and have gotten many re-books! It is encouraging to know I will have the clientele when I graduate!” She recently attended LJIC’s 2016 Trend Vision Competition and had an incredible experience! “Trend Vision was amazing! Seeing all LJIC students was pretty memorable! It was also a great opportunity to be able to speak with industry partners and watching the platform artists was awesome!” Amanda has also enjoyed experimenting with new styles and colors while in school! “I did a unicorn look on someone and I had SO much fun! It felt like true artwork! I’ve learned a lot and have identified BIG goals for myself once I graduate!”

After Amanda graduates next year, she has BIG plans for herself! “I want to make a name for myself in this industry! I plan on finding a job in a full service salon to continue to grow my clientele and enhance my skill set!” Though there were difficult times in Amanda’s journey, she credits her positive outlook and support system on getting her through! “Life is always going to happen and there will always be obstacles. If there is something you really want to do MAKE IT HAPPEN! Figure out a road map of where you want to be and work hard to achieve your goals! You’ll continue to figure things out as you go but there are NO EXCUSES when it comes to your achieving your passion!”