Elena Papula, a fourth-year student at the University of Rhode Island, provides in-house and traveling nail care services.
From painting for fun to considering a future career as an artist, Papula’s passion has always been creating art. They ultimately decided to major in animal and veterinary science, with a concentration in animal management, husbandry and exotics.
Papula has worked at an animal daycare and boarding facility as a kennel technician for two years. They are also currently interning for their animal science degree at West Place Sanctuary as an animal keeper.
On the side, Papula utilizes their artistic experience to provide nail services. They lost their creative spark in art, having to always abide by programs and portfolios. They describe feeling burnt out and tired.
“Once I started doing nails, I really felt like that spark came back,” Papula said. “It’s like a mini canvas to me.”
Papula started their journey by doing nails on themself, as they did not love the press-ons in store and the salons were too expensive. Their artistic backgrounds allowed for quick progression, and they were able to go from simple colors to flamboyant shapes and designs.
They started to see themself being good enough to practice on others. They started advertising “free sets” to people on YikYak and it was not long before the word was out. Once they started charging, they could experiment with different preferences and styles.
“It has really taken off,” Papula said.
Business peaked in the summer for Papula. A lot of their friends were home, and they were able to get the word out even more. Coming back to school in the fall, there was a small setback with new faces.
Papula transferred from Eckerd College to URI this year. Being at a much larger school, it is easier for Papula to get their name out there. They utilized YikYak, Instagram and Snapchat to advertise their business.
“I go through phases where I get really hyperfocused on doing my nails,” Papula said. “But now it really stuck because it is something I can provide other people too.”
To book an appointment with Elena, you can message them directly on Instagram @epdoesnails. They work out of their house, but can also come to campus. Papula has an amazing ability to connect with their clients directly, get to know them, and provide a comfortable and careful service. They are willing to work with their clients and perform specific tasks for a reasonable fee.
“I feel like I can really achieve somebody’s dream set,” Papula said.
