Where Are They Now? Alumni Who Are Living Their Dream

Beauty school is just the beginning.

At Paul Mitchell The School San Diego, our Future Professionals don’t just graduate—they go on to do extraordinary things. From red carpets and content creation to bold, inclusive beauty spaces, our alumni show that the beauty industry has no limits.

*Individual results and career paths may vary. Results are not a guarantee of future outcomes.

DJ Quintero — From #PMTSSD to Red Carpets & Runways

Graduated: 2008 – Cosmetology Program
Now: Editorial + Celebrity Hairstylist | NYC + LA
Instagram: @djquintero

DJ Quintero’s career path reflects where passion, education, and persistence can lead. After graduating from Paul Mitchell The School San Diego in 2008, DJ packed up and moved to New York City—ready to take on the world of high fashion, editorial shoots, and red-carpet glamour.
What started as a bold leap quickly turned into an extraordinary journey. DJ spent years working alongside iconic hairstylist Serge Normant and went on to become Creative Director at the Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon. Today, he’s a sought-after freelance artist represented by The Wall Group, with dual representation in both New York and Los Angeles.

DJ’s client list reads like a Hollywood who’s who: Demi Moore, Emma Stone, Katie Holmes, Sarah Jessica Parker, Amanda Seyfried, Lily Collins, Jessica Chastain, Julianne Moore, Charlize Theron, Reese Witherspoon, Mariah Carey, and Mick Jagger—to name a few.

His artistry has graced the pages of Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, W Magazine, InStyle, Elle, Rolling Stone, Allure, and Cosmopolitan. And his work has made waves on screen too, with credits on Saturday Night Live, Project Runway, and HBO’s And Just Like That.

“I’ll always be grateful to Paul Mitchell The School San Diego for being part of the foundation that helped me build my career. It gave me the start I needed to chase what seemed impossible—and turn it into reality.”

Thinking about enrolling? These stories are just a glimpse of what’s possible when you start your journey at Paul Mitchell The School San Diego.

Bella Balajadia — Cosmetologist Turned Content Queen

Graduated: 2022 – Cosmetology & Barbering Combo Program
Now: Cosmetologist + Content Creator
Instagram: @444urhair

When Bella moved eight hours from home to attend Paul Mitchell The School San Diego right out of high school, she wasn’t just starting cosmetology school—she was starting a new chapter of her life.

“I found my motivation, gained some of my closest friends, and discovered what I’m capable of. That changed everything.”

Through long days of hands-on learning and inspiring mentorship, Bella found more than her technical skills—she found her voice.

After graduation, she landed a role assisting a well-known stylist, but something unexpected happened: she fell in love with content creation. Through social media and storytelling, she found a new creative direction that continues to evolve.

“The beauty industry is so much bigger than I realized. Now I get to combine creativity, connection, and passion—and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Today, Bella’s turning her talent and camera into a tool for empowering others and shaping the industry from behind the screen. Her journey is just beginning, and her work is already making an impact.

Ash — Bold Artistry with Purpose

Graduated: 2022  – Cosmetology Program + Advanced MUA program
Now: Queer Alt Stylist + Makeup Educator
Instagram: @ashcreates_sd

From competitive dancer to fine artist to fearless stylist, Ash’s career shows how beauty can be a powerful form of personal expression.

During their time at Paul Mitchell The School San Diego, Ash dove deep into all things creativity—joining the prestigious Design Team, working alongside beloved mentor Ann Degischer, and building serious skill in both hair and makeup.

“This school gave me the path to success. I was surrounded by people who saw me, supported me, and helped me become the artist I am.”

Ash’s work has been featured in community events and professional collaborations—think San Diego Swim Week, Getty Images features, and collaborations with the CEO of the San Diego Symphony. Bridal looks? Editorial? Statement glam? They do it all—and they do it with purpose.

Today, Ash is making their mark as a queer alternative stylist at Black Dagger Hair Salon, where they also teach makeup classes and help create a safe space for every person who sits in their chair.

“My chair is for everyone. I want people to feel beautiful, empowered, and 100% themselves when they leave my space.”

Feeling Inspired? Your Journey Starts Here.

These are just a few of the many inspiring alumni from Paul Mitchell The School San Diego who have taken their education and created careers with impact, artistry, and individuality.

Whether your goals include beauty, business, education, or creative expression—your journey starts with the first step.

Tour our campus, meet our team, explore your path.
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