When you cut off your tips to the correct length don't through away the bit that's left as you can practice size, correct ratio and placement of the bead. The name of the game is to practice, practice, practice.
I'm afraid the Foundation course is exactly what it says it is - learning the basics. From here you will be advised to carry on and do your master classes, which will just continue your education.
Remember you are relatively new to this business and it doesn't happen overnight to any of us. We have all been where you are now, and if you look back over the old postings, you will also find that alot of us have done various training, spent endless amounts of money to eventually end up at Designer Nails door (phew!). At this moment in time, I don't think you will get better education than the route you are going, stick with it and you will achieve.
Good luck and keep posting
Adele