Cosmetology school? Anyone?!

Feb 21, 2014

Rhonda C.

Anyone go to cosmetology school? Is it worth it? What school and does the school matter!? Thanks!

Feb 21, 2014

Antonia S.

I planned on going to cosmetology school but I just began to doubt my decision. None the less I did plenty of research when I wanted to go so I can give you advice.
-I think it's worth it. You're learning three different trades. (Hair, nails, and some makeup.) Hair is the main focus. The price varies depending on your location and what school you pick, allthough all the schools in my area were around the 18-20K mark for tuition.
-The school is completely up to you. In my area we have four schools.
Empire Beauty School
Regency Beauty Institute
The Aveda Institute
Paul Mitchell
I ruled out Empire from the start because I did not like the environment. I never even set foot in the school, but the area is very dangerous and I don't want to attend school there. Regency was holding an open house for seniors and I went and winded up being the only one there. I got a really good in depth tour of the school and I fell in love with it.
I toured Aveda second. That school blew me out of the water. It was triple the size of Regency and I liked the side of town that it was located. Everyone seemed so chic.
I never toured Paul Mitchell. I was dead set on going to Aveda.
-In theory, the school doesn't matter because you are essentially learning the same thing.
I think of it like a t-shirt. You can buy a t-shirt from Walmart or a t-shirt from Abercrombie and Fitch or Forever 21. They are probably the exact same, but Abercrombie is name brand so people prefer it. This is how the schools go. Basically having a backing like Paul Mitchell or Aveda sounds nice to potential bosses and clients. But, no matter what t-shirt you buy, if you can't style it and wear it to make it look good, then it's pointless. (think of this as your skills. It doesn't matter what school you go to if you're simply not a good hairdresser.)
I suggest for you to compile a list of cosmo schools in your area and tour all of them. Ask a lot of questions. Ask about the schedule, dress code, schedule flexibility, tuition, payment plans. Ask everything. Try to tour when school is in session so you can get a glimpse of what the students actually do. Try to talk to some students if you can. Ask if they like school, if the schedule is rough on them, how they are paying for it, etc.

Feb 22, 2014

Heather G.

I went but knew from the beginning I loved makeup. So decided to not finish. If you love hair it's super fun but can't get catty.

Feb 22, 2014

Heather G.

But can get*

Feb 22, 2014

Jennifer S.

I say if you are interested in doing hair, makeup and nail, definitely check out cosmetology schools. I personally would recommend any Aveda Institutes or Paul Mitchell Schools. They are leaders and pioneers in the industry. I learned a lot from Aveda. If you are more interested in only the makeup part, I would look at schools like Joe Blasco. Hope this helps!

Feb 22, 2014

Katy S.

I totally agree with Jennifer. Aveda and Paul Mitchell are both great schools. I'm actually 3 months away from graduating from Aveda. Both schools go above and beyond with their education and teach you a lot more. From my experience I've noticed that other schools only teach you what you need to know for your state board exam. You also, for the most part, graduate feeling confident in your abilities.

Feb 23, 2014

Ember F.

I am actually a votech student, so during my normal school days I get bused to a different school where high school students get taught technical skills. I am in the cosmetology program and finding a good school where you are comfortable is the most important. I would suggest going to a votech school not only because you graduate being worth money it is a fraction of the cost I only paid $500 to attend and I pay miscellaneous costs along the way. It isn't so much the school you go to it is the teacher.

Feb 24, 2014

Tamarah M.

I'm a makeup artist and recently started cosmetology school. Let me tell you it's definitely a commitment. I go full time 40+ hours a week. being a makeup artist I just wanted something extra to add to my resume and oh boy was I in for a surprise! It's lots of work but totally worth it :)

Feb 24, 2014

Maria C.

It actually depends in what you want your main focus to be. If your looking into hair then cosmetology school is good. I have been a licensed cosmetologist for 10 years now. I went to a smaller beauty school. Paul Mitchell and Aveda are definitely you way to go. Now if your more interested in skincare than an esthetic school will better suit you. Good luck in your decision.