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Karla Gallegos

2x

Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Makeup and Beauty
  • Dog Training

Reading

  • Health

Bio

My name is Karla Gallegos, and I am currently enrolled in the LEAD Rolfs Global Institute through Mesa Community College, with plans to transfer to Arizona State University. I am pursuing a degree in Applied Science in the Beauty and Wellness department, blending my passion for aesthetics with a dedication to helping others feel confident and empowered. My long-term goal is to combine advanced education with hands-on expertise to create a meaningful career in the beauty and wellness industry. Earning scholarship support will allow me to continue building my skills, expanding my opportunities, and contributing positively to my community and future clients.

Education

Mesa Community College

Bachelor's degree program

2025 – 2029

Majors:
  • Biological and Physical Sciences

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Master's degree program
Majors of interest:
Biological and Physical Sciences
Desired degree modality:
Hybrid, Online
Medical school interest:
Yes

Career

  • Guest service associate

    Health, Wellness, and Fitness · European wax center

    Jan 2025 – Present

  • Optician/keyholder

    Consumer Goods · Americas Best glasses and contacts

    Jan 2024 – Jan 2025

  • Barista

    Food & Beverages · Starbucks

    Jan 2022 – Jan 2023

  • Trainer

    Food & Beverages · Jamba Juice

    Jan 2019 – Jan 2021

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Cosmetics
Work experience:
5 years
Has nursing license:
No
Brown Skin Agenda Aesthetics & Cosmetology Scholarship
From a young age, I was drawn to the world of beauty. What began as a childhood fascination with makeup and product packaging evolved into something far more meaningful when I began experiencing hormonal acne as a teenager. Struggling with my own skin created both personal frustration and curiosity. I wanted to understand why certain products worked for some people but not for others, why skin reacted differently from one person to another, and most importantly, how to restore confidence to those who felt insecure about their skin just as I once did. That curiosity grew into a deep passion for skincare and ultimately the career path I have chosen. My inspiration comes from both personal experience and the people around me. I have seen how skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or sensitivity can affect someone’s self-esteem and even the way they engage with the world. I believe that healthy, cared-for skin is not just about appearance. It is about restoring confidence, dignity, and comfort in one’s own body. This belief fuels my desire to become a licensed esthetician, entrepreneur, and educator specializing in skincare for all skin types with a particular focus on underrepresented skin tones and conditions. Too often, the beauty industry has overlooked diversity in its education, products, and services. I want to be part of the change that ensures everyone, regardless of skin color or concern, feels seen and supported. To turn this vision into reality, I have already taken my first steps. I am currently attending esthetician school to build a strong foundation in both technique and theory. My plan does not stop at licensure. I intend to continue my education by earning a bachelor’s degree in Applied Science within the Beauty and Wellness department at Arizona State University. Through the LEAD Rolfs Global Institute and my current studies at Mesa Community College, I am gaining academic knowledge along with leadership, business, and industry insight that will help me innovate in my field. I envision building a brand that represents inclusivity, innovation, and integrity. This will include offering advanced treatments, developing products that serve all skin tones, and mentoring future professionals so they enter the industry with the skills and cultural awareness needed to serve a diverse clientele. I am committed to staying at the forefront of skincare science, continuously learning about new treatments, and advocating for broader education in the industry, especially in areas that address ethnic skin types and conditions that are often under-researched. What inspires me most is the idea that my work can have a lasting impact not only on how someone looks in the mirror but also on how they feel walking into a room. My career path is more than a profession. It is a calling to uplift others through knowledge, care, and representation. Every step I take in my education and career is fueled by the belief that beauty is for everyone, and it is my mission to make that belief a reality.
Karla Gallegos Student Profile | Bold.org