| In 250 hours, nail students at the Long Island Nail &
Skin Care Institute get an education like nowhere else. Not only are they fully prepared for the New York state
board, they're prepared for the real world -- specifically the spa world
-- as well. Graduates are flooded with job offers, says school owner Dana Caruso.
Caruso, a nail tech, opened the school in a small location in 1997, at first teaching only the basic state-required
curriculum. But she felt more was needed to enhance the reputation of the nail industry and attract quality
individuals, Convinced that in-depth, hands-on spa training would give students the skills they need to open their own day
spas and build large devoted clienteles, she moved the school to a 5,000
sq.-ft. facility with classroom space, treatment rooms, and even a Vichy shower.
Within the tranquil, spa-like environment, students practice an array of soothing natural nail and hand
treatments, complete with music and candles. "Of course,
they are fully trained in all artificial nail techniques and nail art as
well." says Caruso. To foster a professional attitude, students are required to wear lab jackets over
black attire and keep their hair pulled back.
"We place a heavy emphasis on each tech developing her own style," says Caruso. To that end, they
require each student to develop a detailed business plan for her own day
spa. "Everyone has to build a 3-D mockup of an actual salon and create a comprehensive
service menu, mission statement, and budget. They must also research permits, insurance, and licensing
requirements, as well as line up distributors for the product lines they intend to use and
retail." says Caruso. "They usually groan and moan at first, but they do
it."
The Institute offers full- and part-time nail programs,
as well as courses in skin cam, waxing, and makeup. For more information, call (516) 520-4800 or visit
www.linailskincare.com
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