Rising Star and Groom Tech Grad: This New Groomer Consistently Exceeds Expectations
Meet Rising Star and Groom Tech Grad Elizabeth Kelly of Petsense in Claremore, Oklahoma! We always love to see goal-oriented and self motivated learners come through our program, and Elizabeth is a shining example of both. There’s no stopping this fledgling groomer, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her!
Just ask her mentor Suesan Watson, who tells us, “Elizabeth was a model student, she set her goals and met everyone of them, even though she was a part-time student. She worked and studied hard and learned from critiques and the program well. I know if she continues in the program she will find that she is where she belongs and grow into the groomer she wants to be. Congrats!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
After being disappointed in the direction my state’s education was heading, along with the mental anguish most educators face, I knew it was time to leave the education field.
At 30 years old, married mother of 4 (14 – 6), I reevaluated my qualities and skills. I thought about dog grooming as I have always had a love of animals, and enjoy the creativity that comes with grooming pets. After shadowing a local salon, I knew I had to learn more. After numerous phone calls and interviews, I found a corporate salon that would take me on as a groom tech. Even better the salon offered Paragon education!
I was terrified of jumping ship and changing careers but could not have imagined it was even better that I expected. If I could change anything, I would have done this sooner!
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
During my coursework I enjoyed the sense of community Paragon offers their distant learners. From lunch and learns, a mentor that is reliably accessible, and a thriving Facebook group of students and grads I felt like someone was always in my corner. I learn best by reading so I was always looking in the group for different posts where a student talks about how they achieved specific outcomes.
Where can we see your work?
I am still growing my portfolio but I have been diving into social media marketing. I frequently post on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube shorts. Within five years I plan to add on more holistic spa offerings such as canine massage, acupressure, and canine run therapy.
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
Grow your personal skills just as you are growing your professional skill. Building trust and relationships with your clients will be the foundation to a great groom. If that customer cannot trust you to do what’s best for their pet you eventually will loose them as a client.