“Make-up is not a mask that covers up your beauty: it’s a weapon that helps you express who you are from the inside” (Michelle Phan). Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatments. It includes a wide range of practices including hairstyling, make-up, skin care, esthetics, and so much more. The more years that pass, the more expensive beauty services become. In 2024, the average spent on one service of getting full glam make-up cost anywhere from $80-$150. Bridal make-up also starts at $250 and can range to $1000 depending on what state or area you live in. My goal is to be a licensed cosmetologist because it’s therapeutic, it helps others, and it will enable me to achieve future goals. First, when I do hair and make-up I feel it's therapeutic. Many people like to paint or draw when they are stressed. Instead of painting or drawing, I like to do make-up and hair. While working on a client or myself, I like to play music and take my time creating a look. Doing make-up gives me a sense of relief and it relaxes me. Also, being able to talk to a client and relate to them makes me feel better, and makes the client feel better. Cosmetology is a form of therapy and meditation for me. Next, Cosmetology can help people feel better about themselves. As a girl, I always had insecurities. I know many girls or women can relate that we don't always feel like the best version of ourselves. Something that makes me feel better is putting on a full glam look, and getting ready even if I'm not doing anything. For example, last month my aunt asked if I could do her hair and makeup for a wedding she was going to. My aunt is very insecure about herself, but she is perfect to me. After I was done doing her hair and make-up she started tearing up because she said, “ this is the best make-up I have ever had on”. My aunt telling me this made me so happy and inspired, because I was able to help her to feel better about herself. Having access to getting your make-up and hair done can help people feel better about themselves. Last, becoming a cosmetologist will enable me to achieve my future goals. As long as I can remember, I have always had a passion for make-up and hair. When I was a little girl, I always tagged along with my mom to the hair salon. I was always so fascinated by being in the salon, and watching the workers. My dream is to open my own salon. Becoming a cosmetologist will help me get the practice, and requirements I need. I like to practice with family and friends, so I can build my skills. Watching YouTube and Tiktok videos also really helped me practice, and get tips and tricks I can use in the future. Cosmetology has always appealed to me, and I feel the most passionate towards it. In conclusion, becoming a licensed cosmetologist will help me achieve my future plans and goals. Becoming a licensed cosmetologist offers therapeutic benefits, an opportunity to help others, and the ability to achieve my future goals. Doing hair and make-up is relaxing, but also rewarding. Make-up has helped people over the years feel better about how they look, and has opened many possibilities for people to achieve their goals. The future of cosmetology lies in the