Did anyone else experience this?

Wow, reading this brought back so many memories! Starting college, especially something as hands-on as esthetician school, when COVID-19 first began truly felt like navigating uncharted waters. It's wild to think back to those days when we were all just trying to figure things out. Like you, I remember the frustration of watching detailed waxing tutorials or facial massage techniques on a screen, knowing instinctively that my hands needed to feel it to truly learn. One of the biggest hurdles was definitely the lack of consistent hands-on practice. My instructors did their best with virtual demonstrations, but it just wasn't the same as applying a chemical peel or performing extractions in a supervised setting. To cope, I got creative. I invested in a few inexpensive mannequin heads – they aren't perfect, but they helped me practice my facial routines, product application, and even some basic makeup techniques. My family became my very willing (and sometimes unwilling!) test subjects for everything from basic facials to hand massages. It wasn't always ideal, but any practice was better than no practice. Connecting with my classmates, even virtually, became a lifeline. We'd often hop on video calls after 'class' to discuss what we'd learned, share tips we'd found, or just vent about the challenges of learning esthetics through a screen. That camaraderie was so important for staying motivated. We even organized small, socially distanced study groups when regulations allowed, just to get some supervised practice in with each other. The mental toll was also real. The uncertainty of the pandemic combined with the pressure of learning a new trade virtually was a lot. I found that scheduling regular breaks, practicing mindfulness, and making sure I had a dedicated 'school space' at home helped immensely. It was easy for my living room to become my classroom, but having clear boundaries helped maintain some sanity. Looking back, while it was incredibly challenging, I feel like starting my esthetician journey during COVID-19 unexpectedly equipped me with a unique set of skills. I learned to be incredibly adaptable, resourceful, and self-motivated. If I could learn complex esthetic procedures with limited in-person interaction, I felt confident I could tackle anything in a spa setting. It taught me the importance of continuous learning and finding solutions, even when traditional paths are blocked. For anyone else who went through this, or who might be facing similar unconventional learning paths, remember that your perseverance is a huge asset. Don't underestimate the resilience you've built. That license you earned represents not just your knowledge, but your incredible dedication in extraordinary circumstances. It's a story worth telling and a strength that will serve you well throughout your career. Keep shining!