Atelier Student Uses Talents to Bring a Smile to Seniors

Read the full article from Kare 11

Marielle Smith – a nail student who recently graduated from the Atelier Academy of Beauty – hasn’t wasted any time putting her talents to good use.

For the past two years, Marielle has worked at Good Samaritan Society- Ambassador. She began as a certified nursing assistant before transitioning to health information management and working the front desk.

While there, she took to painting residents’ nails, who then encouraged her to go to beauty school.

As she attended the nail program at the Atelier, Marielle brought her new skills back to the residents of Good Samaritan, who cheered her on along the way.

“She’s caring,” one resident says of Marielle, “That’s what she is, she’s a caring person.”

Quote taken by Boyd Huppert at Kare 11

It’s also clear that Marielle has a knack for nail art. Over the holidays, residents sported holly berries, candy canes, and gift wrap on their manicures.

During February, at least one resident could be seen donning valentines. Presently, for spring, Marielle has painted flowers and Easter bunnies.

Marielle says she knows she “not saving lives or anything like the nurses . . . but it makes me feel like I’m doing something to change their lives”

Quote taken by Boyd Huppert at Kare 11

Residents and staff couldn’t agree more.

Good Samaritan’s director of nursing Kim Stoltzman states, “If I’m helping a resident with a task, they’re very quick to point it out and they’re very proud of their nails. It just makes them feel good. It just adds so much joy to their day and their life.”

Quote taken by Boyd Huppert at Kare 11

While Marielle still works her regular hours at the senior living facility, the nails she does for residents are on her own time.

One day, Marielle hopes to own her own salon.

At the Atelier Academy of Beauty, we’ve designed our nail program with accessibility in mind. Our hybrid online and in-person schedule combines flexible schooling with quality, hands-on education. Each Atelier nail student creates their own schedule to learn at their own pace.

If you want to learn more or schedule a tour, visit our contact page and fill out a request form. Ready to start? See our application for more details

Got Questions?

This is the general form for students who are interested in programs

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
Address
I am interested in…*
Anticipated Education Year
Anticipated Educational Season
Hidden

Scroll to Top
Scroll to Top