What does it take to turn a passion for visual storytelling into a successful career? For Bella Piety, a proud graduate of F.I.R.S.T. Institute’s Graphic Design and Web Development program, the answer is clear—mastering a wide range of creative skills while embracing every opportunity to grow and step out of her comfort zone. Bella’s impressive journey, from a budding creative to a full-time social media manager, shows how determination, diverse training, and a willingness to explore new avenues can unlock endless opportunities in the digital and creative industries.
From social media management to photography and web design, Bella’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability in today’s fast-evolving professional landscape. She has not only harnessed her creative skills but also turned them into a thriving career filled with purpose, passion, and endless growth.
Leveraging Every Skill Learned: The F.I.R.S.T. Institute Journey
At the heart of Bella’s success is the strong foundation she built during her time at F.I.R.S.T. Institute. There, she had the opportunity to hone her talents in photography, videography, graphic design, web design, and editing. Each skill she acquired added another versatile tool to her creative toolbox, arming her with the confidence and capabilities needed to thrive in her career.
“I feel like I’ve learned a little of everything,” Bella says, reflecting on her time at F.I.R.S.T. Institute. This diverse skill set has proven invaluable in her current role as a social media manager for a thriving hair salon, where she juggles multiple responsibilities and creative projects every day. From designing sleek, professional websites to capturing stunning visuals, editing dynamic content, and managing social media strategies, Bella’s work showcases the versatility fostered by the F.I.R.S.T. Institute curriculum.
“I use everything I learned here,” Bella explains. “Whether it’s photography, videography, or even editing, I feel like I can tackle virtually anything.” Her ability to draw from a broad range of creative disciplines has not only made her an asset to her employer but also set her apart as a multi-talented professional in a competitive field.
A Day in the Life of a Social Media Manager: Creativity Meets Strategy
Bella’s role as a social media manager is the perfect blend of creativity and strategy, showcasing her ability to transform ideas into impactful results. Her mornings often begin with engaging the salon’s digital community, where she responds to DMs, answers comments, and reposts stories from followers who tag the salon in their posts. This daily interaction not only strengthens the salon’s online presence but also fosters a sense of community among its clientele.
Beyond managing day-to-day interactions, Bella takes a proactive approach to content creation. She plans and organizes photoshoots at least a week in advance, carefully crafting shot lists, capturing high-quality images and videos, and editing the content to perfection from the comfort of her home. Her attention to detail and passion for storytelling shine through in every post, reel, and video she produces.
But Bella doesn’t stop at creating standard content—she’s always on the lookout for trends that can elevate her client’s brand. Whether it’s a viral TikTok challenge, trending dance, or popular social media format, Bella’s creative mind is constantly seeking ways to merge these trends with her client’s vision. “I see trending ideas and think, ‘How can I combine that with my client’s business?’ That’s where I get most of my inspiration,” she shares.
Her work goes far beyond quick-hit content like Instagram Reels and TikToks. Bella also films longer-form videos, documenting everything from in-depth hair tutorials to behind-the-scenes footage of salon events and classes. These videos not only provide valuable content for the salon’s audience but also help humanize the brand, giving followers a glimpse of the personality and passion behind the business.
Venturing into New Creative Horizons: Expanding Her Passion Projects
While Bella’s work as a social media manager keeps her busy, she’s always seeking new opportunities to expand her creative horizons. Recently, she took on a deeply personal project outside the world of business—a maternity film for her close friend and her husband. This project allowed Bella to combine her technical expertise with complete creative freedom, resulting in a piece of work she holds close to her heart.
“I think that was my favorite project so far,” Bella recalls. “I didn’t have any guidelines. I could take the reins and create exactly what I envisioned.” This experience not only reinforced her love for visual storytelling but also inspired her to dream bigger about the future of her career.
Looking ahead, Bella is eager to build her brand as a wedding photographer and videographer, capturing life’s most magical moments for couples on their special day. While she plans to keep social media management as a complementary venture, her ultimate goal is to transition into full-time photography and videography, with a specific focus on weddings. “I’d love to take on a few clients for social media, but my goal is to go full-time with photography and videography. And someday, I want to photograph weddings,” she shares with excitement.
Bella’s Advice to Aspiring Creatives: Seizing Opportunities
If there’s one piece of advice Bella wants to share with aspiring creatives, it’s this: “Just go for it.” She believes that stepping out of your comfort zone and asking for opportunities is key to success in any creative field.
When Bella first started working at the salon, it wasn’t as a social media manager but as a barista in their attached café. However, she wasn’t afraid to share her true aspirations. “During my job interview, I said, ‘This is what I love to do, and this is what I’m currently studying.’ Slowly but surely, I became their full-time social media manager and now get to do everything I love,” she recounts.
Bella’s story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, all it takes is the courage to ask for an opportunity. By voicing her passion and demonstrating her skills, she was able to carve out a role that aligned perfectly with her career goals.
Building Your Dream Career with F.I.R.S.T. Institute
Bella’s inspiring journey highlights the limitless potential that comes from acquiring a diverse set of creative skills and following your passion with determination. At F.I.R.S.T. Institute, aspiring creatives like Bella are equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in today’s competitive industry.
Whether you dream of becoming a social media strategist, an award-winning designer, or a full-time wedding photographer, F.I.R.S.T. Institute provides the foundation to turn your vision into reality. Through comprehensive training programs in photography, videography, web design, editing, and more, students gain the tools and versatility necessary to tackle any creative challenge.
F.I.R.S.T. Institute doesn’t just teach technical skills—it fosters a supportive environment where students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, explore new ideas, and embrace the opportunities that come their way. Like Bella, graduates leave with the confidence to pursue their passions and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing industry.
Ready to Take the F.I.R.S.T. Step?
Are you ready to transform your passion into a fulfilling career? Bella’s journey is proof that with the right training, determination, and mindset, anything is possible. Whether you’re just beginning your creative journey or looking to sharpen your skills, F.I.R.S.T. Institute is here to guide you every step of the way.
Discover how F.I.R.S.T. Institute can help you build the career of your dreams. Learn more about our programs and apply today! Learn more and apply now!
