What's it like to live as a young woman on this Baltic Sea island?
I think it’s really lovely here. I’m from a small town, so I feel very at home with rural life. My commute is short. That’s wonderful. In the summer, it’s a five-minute bike ride. There aren’t that many options for young people, but when I want to go out, I head to Świnoujście. Unfortunately, my favorite nightclub closed down a while ago. I’m sure I’ll get a taste of big-city life again someday.
What motivated you to train as a cosmetologist? What appeals to you about the profession?
It was a process. I got into it through various internships. It was important to me to do something with my hands. Preferably something creative and filigree. When I saw my sister cramming at her desk for her studies, I knew right away: That’s not for me. Dental technology—totally interesting, but I missed the variety and the contact with customers. With photography, I thought it might be hard to advance in the field unless you’re exceptional. I didn’t want that kind of pressure. My mom gave me the idea to become a cosmetologist. She’s a hairdresser, so I’ve been familiar with that world since I was a little kid. I love being close to people. It’s so wonderful to do something good for others. Every day is different. People bring so much variety. I never know who’ll be my next client. I can really let my creativity run wild, especially with decorative cosmetics.
You graduated at the top of your class. How does it feel to be Germany’s best cosmetologist?
It came as a complete surprise. When I received the invitation from the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce to the national awards ceremony in Berlin, I didn’t even realize it at first. “Do you even realize what this means?” was my family’s reaction. At the event, I found it really exciting to meet the other graduates. We had plenty of time to talk about our different professions. In total, the best apprentices from 200 professions were honored that evening. I had actually prepared very well for the exam. I’m ambitious and set high standards for myself. In exam situations, I simply don’t want to leave anything to chance. But it never would have occurred to me that I’d end up getting the highest score of all.
What cosmetic treatments do you offer at the Steigenberger Hotel? Do you have a favorite treatment that you’d particularly recommend?
The classics: manicures, pedicures, facials with exfoliation, massages, and eyelash and eyebrow tinting. I also offer full-body exfoliation and wraps, as well as partial-body massages. I just completed advanced training in ultrasound therapy. This technique can stimulate certain processes—such as blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, and collagen synthesis—and improve the skin’s appearance. Facial treatments are what I enjoy most. It’s wonderful when I can help with specific skin issues and offer advice. Plus, I find that facial treatments are a wonderful way for me to unwind. When I give clients a facial massage while soothing wellness music plays, it’s therapeutic for me, too.
