Posted on April 11 2025
💬 Real Success, Real Advice
From bridal bookings and TV sets to working at MAC and Sephora, our graduates are doing amazing things. We asked them to share the most valuable lessons they learned during their time at the Academy of Makeup.
Here’s what they had to say 👇
👩⚕️ 1. You Can Juggle Study With Another Career
“I juggle bridal makeup with studying Occupational Therapy!”
— Amanda Saville, Freelance Bridal Artist & OT Student
Life doesn’t have to stop while you train. Many of our students balance their course with part-time work, parenting, or even other studies.
📆 The key? Flexible planning + consistent practice.
Even just a few focused hours a week can set you up for success—and the freedom to build a career your way.
💄 2. Let Your Confidence Grow With Every Booking
“I’m now Assistant Manager at MAC Cosmetics!”
— Shannen Nicholls, Diploma Graduate
Shannen’s journey from student to MAC leadership proves that confidence comes from hands-on learning and applying what you’ve learned in the real world.
💡 Don’t wait until graduation to start. Freelance, assist, retail—every job is experience that boosts your skill and your confidence.
📸 3. Say Yes to Every Opportunity (Even the Scary Ones!)
“I’ve been published, booked solid, and hired at Sephora—all within months of graduating.”
— Charleigh Bennett, Bridal & Editorial MUA
Charleigh didn’t sit still—she put herself out there, took every opportunity, and built momentum fast.
🚀 The takeaway? Push yourself outside your comfort zone.
Apply for that shoot. Submit that look. You never know where it might lead.
🎥 4. Your Dream Job Might Be in a Studio, Not a Salon
“You’ll find me behind the scenes at Channel 7!”
— Kayla Elefsen, Freelance MUA & TV Artist
TV. Editorial. SPFX. Weddings. Graduates like Kayla prove that your Diploma is a gateway to all kinds of creative careers—not just beauty counters.
🎬 Use your time in the course to try everything. You might discover a passion for something you never expected!
💪 5. The Skills Go Beyond Makeup (And That’s the Point)
“I learned how to accept feedback, challenge myself, and back myself with confidence.”
— Ashley Stephens, Store Manager
At the Academy of Makeup, we’re not just teaching you how to blend eyeshadow—we’re helping you grow as a professional.
🌟 You’ll learn how to handle feedback, build resilience, and develop the mindset that keeps your career moving forward—even after challenges.
🌍 6. Your Diploma Can Take You Anywhere (Even Around the World)
“I went from Diploma grad to award-winning hairstylist and salon owner, with international work under my belt.”
— Lauryn Plummer, MUA & Hairdresser
Lauryn’s journey shows how far your career can go with the right foundation. After finishing her Diploma of Specialist Makeup, she expanded into hairdressing, won awards, worked overseas, and eventually opened her own salon.
🎓 The Academy gave her a launchpad—and she ran with it.
Whether you want to work in fashion, film, education, or business, your Diploma is just the beginning. The industry is full of pathways, and you get to choose the one that fits your vision.
💖 Final Thoughts
Our grads say it best:
- Juggle study with life ✅
- Build confidence in real-world settings ✅
- Say yes to new opportunities ✅
- Explore beyond the beauty salon
- Grow personally and professionally ✅
No matter where you’re starting, we’ll help you gain the skills, support and confidence to succeed.