Cosmetology, Confidence & Connection: Ūla Barbora’s SMK Experience Uncovered

In a recent episode of the SMK Tell Me More podcast, our admissions manager Indrė Jokubauskaitė sat down with third-year Aesthetic Cosmetology student Ūla Barbora and uncovered a truly inspiring journey. Ūla Barbora shared how studying at SMK has brought her closer to fulfilling a dream she’s had since childhood—to work in the beauty industry.

“I realized that I can sit in a room and do makeup for like seven hours and I wouldn't get bored,” Ūla Barbora recalled, reflecting on the moment she knew this was her calling. Discovering SMK’s Aesthetic Cosmetology program felt like fate. Since enrolling, she’s not only developed strong professional skills but also found a supportive and vibrant community.

Initially shy, Ūla Barbora said she didn’t expect to fit in so well. But on just the second day,  she met two friends who are still by her side to this day. “I was so grateful for that experience,” she said.

Barbora emphasized that SMK “teaches you the basics of everything,” from facial treatments to anatomy. She highlighted her favorite class—makeup—praising her teacher Kristina for her professionalism and kindness. “She teaches you really well and she explains really well,” Ūla Barbora noted. She also spoke highly of other lecturers like Virginija, Aistė, and Renata, calling them “patient, awesome, bubbly, and really cool.”

To future students, Ūla Barbora had one simple but powerful piece of advice:
“Do what makes you happy and you will be happy yourself.”

At SMK, she found a place to grow, create, and belong—and that’s what education should feel like.

Interested in studying at SMK College of Applied Sciences? We cannot wait to meet you!

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