Both are amazing products and can be used on anyone. Acrylic is used by mixing powder (polymer) with liquid (monomer). This is one of the strong odours you can smell when you walk into a salon. You have to learn how to mix the 2 together to create a bead for the nail enhancement. If you want to stay away from strong odours, gel nails may be a better option. Acrylic nails have been more known and popular but Gel nails are just as good. Gel nails are cured in the LED lamp to harden, while acrylic sets on its own as you apply it. Gel nails are usually more expensive, and the product also costs more. It is also more flexible, so when you bang your nail, it will bend, rather then break. I love using both but it is totally up to you as a nail technician to decide what you like working with. Learning both is ideal so you can offer the 2 most popular options in the nail industry. Acrygel is a hybrid of both products in 1. I love them all but the main concern may be wether you are okay with the odour from the monomer (acrylic). I always recommend potential students to have a plan/idea with where they plan to work from eventually. If your goal is to work from home, find a space with a window for ventilation! If you still have more questions please reach out and I can help you further decide which course option is best for you and your goals.