WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE ATTENDING COSMETOLOGY SCHOOL?
I was working in fast food earning minimum wage at the time. I’ve always had an interest in the beauty industry and I wanted to make a big change in my future, so I just dove into the work. My school, Protege, was local and I thought it was the best school for me, so I took the chance to apply.
HOW HAS PROTEGE AFFECTED YOUR CAREER PATH?
Since I’ve graduated I’ve actually gone into more of a customer service role within salon management; however, I continue to practice and take some hairdressing customers in my spare time. Something I’ve noticed when applying my education to my current job is the ease with which I speak to the public. My background in consultations made me comfortable talking to people and, in turn, those people respond well to me. Employers also note that you’re willing to learn new skills and have the discipline to stick to it.
HOW DID MIA SHARE HELP YOU ON YOUR EDUCATIONAL JOURNEY?
I heard about Mia Share through the school, they helped me set everything up and it has been super easy ever since. I got offered different banking solutions and loans, but I chose to do Mia Share. It seemed like the simplest option with the least amount of risk, and I was right, it’s been one of the easiest payment plans I’ve ever used. It’s a flexible option that accommodates the student's needs. Not only is the support great, but the online portal makes it super streamlined, making sure your payments are complete.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN FIVE YEARS?
I’m hoping to be completely immersed in the industry. I look forward to owning a salon in Tennessee, where most of my family lives. I want to be a full-time practicing hairdresser and continuing to expand on my skillset, while owning my own business.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR THOSE PURSUING A TRADE SCHOOL EDUCATION?
Something I learned through attending beauty school and talking with other professionals in the field is to do your homework. Go on a tour of the school, do some thorough research, and make sure that it aligns with your lifestyle at the time. A school is more than just where you get your degree. You will learn from the instructors and your school’s facility will set your expectations once you're in your field, especially in the trades.