New Skills blossom for Kaitlin on Theatrical Special Effects and Hair and Media Make-up Course at SERC

With a passion for make-up and a clear direction of her desired pathway, Kaitline Maney found the Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects and Hair and Media Make-up at SERC has helped her to boost her skills and to establish a career in the make-up industry.

Kaitlin (19) from Portadown says, “I studied ten GCSEs at Portadown College before I started my journey at SERC’s Lisburn campus. I decided that going to college was the best route for me because staying on to do my A-Levels wouldn’t have helped me develop a future career in make-up. In 2020, I started the Level 2 Diploma in Hair and Media Make-up, before progressing to the Level 3 Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects and Hair and Media Make-up in 2021 which was led by tutor Lisa Cunningham-Black.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at SERC, and I gained a lot of confidence studying make-up in an environment where my entire class was as passionate about it as I was. I grew as an artist, as a person, and met lots of new people along the way. SERC was filled with a lot of friendly faces, and as students, we were always encouraged to thrive and reach beyond our goals.”

Kaitlin says, “The thing I most enjoyed about the Level 3 course was building upon the foundation of skills that I already had. It showed me there need be no limits to my creativity and ability, while providing me with an open space to get imaginative and make many different artworks. I especially loved learning how to take simple, everyday items, and use them as tools to showcase my ideas.”

Reflecting on the opportunities she has been given, Kaitlin says, “Since finishing the Level 3 course, I have gone on to secure a position with BPerfect Cosmetics as part of their operations team, alongside working in the new product development team. I have also had the opportunity to work alongside my former tutor, Lisa Cunningham-Black at the Grand Opera House as part of the make-up team for The Addams Family Production.

“At the weekends, I work as a freelance make-up, lash and brow artist from home. My days usually consist of meeting and greeting clients; consulting with them to create a make-up, lash or brow style to complement their skin, face and personality; carrying out the cosmetic, eyelash and eyebrow treatments, and then cleaning and preparing my tools for the next client. On a Saturday, I can have five to seven clients a day during the busiest periods of the year and I also offer bridal packages and evening appointments when requested.”

Concluding, Kaitlin says, “I would recommend SERC to anyone considering further or higher education, as it really opens up a pathway for your future. My time at SERC definitely helped me in becoming a freelance artist; and has equipped me with many skills such as accurate time management, being able to work under pressure, and overcoming any uncertain situations. The course taught me how to trust myself, always be confident in my work, and to never shy away from being creative.

“My advice for anyone who has a passion to work in this industry, is to always be willing to thrive, adapt and modify your techniques to keep up to date on modern trends. Enjoy every service you do, and never see it as a job!”