am i making the right decision about being a hairstylist?

I came on here to find out how much these schools charge, because they won't even tell you unless you go visit! You have to make a formal appointment with admissions and have an interview. Glad I dropped in! There are several options I have considered and being ripped off is not one of them. On another note, if you wish to be taken seriously on any forum...SPELL and write correctly. Especially if you are complaining about being in a field where others don't take your career choice to be as prestigious as others you may have already exlpored.

Most school that are 'Beauty Academies' and not Technical- Vocational Institutes are in the range of 11,000-15,000 dollars for a Cosmetology license. Some of the more prestigious schools like Aveda Concepts or Paul Mitchell Focus institutes are more often in the upwards of 18,000 + range. Typically vocational schools are closer to 6,000+. In most cases, (but not all) you get what you pay for. But in my experience, the higher end salons and salon professionals profess that any cosmetology license will do from any institute; it's the experience you receive after that in either an apprenticeship or assisting program that will really give you the technique and mentoring you need to be hugely successful. Hope that helps:D

Saradipity in San Diego, California said: If this is what you want to do, then do it.
I went to college for business rather than fashion design (which I wanted to do at the time but was talked out of). Then I started a career in banking. I'm 27 years old, and Assistant Vice President, making $63k a year, and I am applying to cosmetology school. It's something I want to do and I know that doing what you want is worth its weight in gold. My family understands it more now that I took the path they saw fit for me and still decided to do something more creative.

Have confidence in yourself and no one else's opinion will matter :-)

I can't thank everyone enough for sharing their helpful insight and experience. I am also 27 years old, have a masters degree,and make $52k at my current 9-5 serious conservative stressful job. I have been making plans to break out and follow my dream of attending cosmetology school to become a stylist. I'm nervous due to my age, and the fact that it is a new realm of schooling away from traditional education. I'm also nervous because this would entail me to start from scratch even though I've put in my 8 hard years of time in college plus 4 years of professional experience. I want creativity, to work for myself, and do well. I want to be innovate and positive! Just having this forum available has helped reaffirm pursuing your goals despite what others think or say. You all have motivated me to turn my dream into a reality!
For those of you who have made the jump from traditional college and career to this field, what are your thoughts? Are you glad that you did it?

Rene in Pasco, Washington said: ...
For those of you who have made the jump from traditional college and career to this field, what are your thoughts? Are you glad that you did it?

I wish I finished my degree before I did hair. Why? Because eventually, the body gives out. After 20 years doing hair, my wrists and thumb joints, and left elbow gave out. Yes, I had carpal tunnel surgery, but that doesn't have a thing to do with the joints. The nerves in my hands would just ache and the hand pain was unbelievable. When it got that bad, I went from 5 days/week to 3 days/week, working M,W,F... and no more than 8 hours. Then I went to two days every other week... until I eventually quit.

My wrists and thumb got to the point that I would just drop a Marcel iron or a blow dryer. I used the lightest equipment, too. When I dropped an iron on two clients and even burned one, it scared me to know I actually hurt someone. I learned to pace myself and not push so hard. I also forced myself to take breaks when I really didn't want to. The nerves in your hands and your joints can only take so much abuse.

If I had to do it all over again, I would not work any longer than six hours a day; and I would take 45~60 min. for a woman's cut. I would not ever shampoo.... and would rarely roll a perm.

After 33 years in the business now, I have a salon in my home. My hands get tired pretty fast. It happens when you grow older. A college education will be very nice one day. Having your education will move you up on the totem pole with *clout* with the educated clients, who hate going to 'silly hairdressers'... and there are some goofy ones. You will attract a very nice following, I am sure. Education is a very nice accessory in this business. You will be able to communicate on many levels with the public that many stylists will not be able to compete with you.

Be blessed.

SheriC in Orange Park, Florida said: .... Education is a very nice accessory in this business. You will be able to communicate on many levels with the public that many stylists will not be able to compete with you.

Be blessed.

P.S. Make no mistake, there ARE educated stylists that do not have a college degree; and I'm one of them. I have a couple of years of college and am a licensed Real Estate Agent.

Having a degree will open some doors... even in hair: however, you must continue your education and perfect techniques and skills constantly in this business. Skilled, creative stylists are always in demand, and there are a lot of them out there. You have your work cut out for you. You're still young and have get-up and go. It's just tough when your get-up leaves before you put your feet on the floor in the morning! :D

response to SheriC in Orange Park, Florida:

Sheri,

I can't thank you enough for your wonderful information, insight, and wisdom. This career continues to be something that I'm planning toward but still feel cautious. I went to college for 8 years (and have threw college degrees) but just don't feel the creativity or the passion that I do within the field of the stylist. I think that you bring up and excellent point in terms of utilizing the education that we have to commmunicate well with a certain type of clientele. I'm sorry to hear about the pains that you are enduring with your hands and joints. I'll take to heart your recommendation to minimize shampooing and perms as well. You and other wonderful people in this forum have been so supportive and realistic in terms of sharing their personal experiences within their careers. I truly appreciate it more than you know. Especially when everyone else around me can't seem to grasp the concept of my changing my career path completely. Thank you again and I look forward to any additional ideas or recommendations that you have. You're the best! Rene

Rene,
I've been attending Pulse, a Paul Mitchell Partner Salon School since September and couldn't be happier. The same goes for all the "older" girls in my class (I am the oldest at age 37, though the average "older student" is about age 27. You will lead an incredibly successful career because of the experience and professionalism you bring to the table. I have almost 10 years teaching experience, and with it feel comfortable and confident knowing that this cosmetology degree will offer me many years of satisfying work in a salon and then if I should decide to expand my career path, I can always work in a more corporate level with a cosmetics company and will actually have a resume that could get me the job. I could never make this kind of career move had I stayed in teaching. I truly love what I'm going to be doing!

Best of luck to you and I wouldn't hesitate for a moment! This might be the best change you've ever made.

Sandra

Rene,
I've

Rene in Pasco, Washington said: response to SheriC in Orange Park, Florida:

...I think that you bring up and excellent point in terms of utilizing the education that we have to commmunicate well with a certain type of clientele....e

Rene,I've written quite a bit about building clientèle on this site. I think if you search by my name, you can find what I've written. It would be worth reading. You'll find me as SheriC in Orange Park or Fleming Island, FL.

I wanted to say, that if you find the **right upscale salon** to apprentice in after you get out of school, then, if you have basic skills and expand on those, then I can pretty much guarantee you that with the prices that people pay today, you can make far more than you have been making. The last year I worked was about ten years ago and I worked only 48 days that year. I made over $29,000+ that year. I mainly did only cuts and colour on women & very few men... because I weeded little humans out and any man that would not pay my top dollar for my time. Develop your eye for colour and perfect techniques. COLOUR is the way to make money in this business. Learn to LOVE IT. The more $$ you make, the more you will love doing hair. Overall, I was not driven to do hair. I was driven to make money and in time, I like hair better. The one thing I loved is I had started each day new and NO PAPERWORK OR PROJECT HANGING OVER MY HEAD! Until I owned my own business. :D

I graduated a year-and-a-half ago from journalism school. I have applied for every job posting in my area and have been unable to get a job. I have been working for minimum wage since I graduated as a receptionist. I need to get a job to support myself, because I am barely getting by. I have decided I want to do a trade because I don't want to spend another two years in school and I like learning hands-on. I like the idea of doing a fast-track course in a hands-on learning environment. I'm not interested in the field of science-- I'm a creative person. Since I was a little girl hair and makeup have always been an interest of mine.
I have some worries though: People keep on going off about this 'passion.' I have a passion for art, creating and making people feel good. But how do I know if I have a passion for hair until I'm DOING it? I won't know until i've learned how to do cut, colouring, perms etc... I'm worried I will spend all this money to only discover that I'm no good at it.
My second concern is, I have shakey hands when I get nervous--- what if they shake when the teacher watches me work. I can't be the only potential hairstylist who had this concern? I hope once I master the craft every motion will come with ease.
My confidence in schools has taken a beating since I graduated from University, unable to get a job.
Everyone's guidance is very appreciated. This resource is helping a lot of ppl! Thank-you.

Sandra,

You are a true inspiration. It's so wonderful to have someone so encouraging in support of my passion. I am a Director of a program in education and advise and counsel students to follow their passions as well. I guess that I should take my own advice! Sometimes I think that I push students to pursue their passions because while I followed my interests, I knew ultimately it wasn't what I wanted to do. Since I work in the world of higher education and academia it can be a very ridged and conservative field in terms of even suggesting the words of cosmetology school. Ultimately I know that I'm passionate about the field, love working with people, have established positive communication skills, and even have a successful freelance make up business on the side. It is intimidating for me to make the jump from my current "safe" career to something so foreign but exciting. I'm also leery of leaving my current salary to pay for costly cosmetology school. In addition, I'm seriously considering simply making the jump to work for myself and rent out a booth at a salon which provides continuing education. While I've lead my life to this point in the "safe" lane, it's time for me to venture out to take a risk and pursue my passion -- I believe that it will pay off in terms of self fulfillment. Hopefully I'll be able to make enough money to pay the bills too!

The transition of your teaching to cosmetology is FANTASTIC. It's courageous people like you who continually inspire greatness! I can't thank you enough for your outstanding encouragement, insight, and support. You truly made a difference in my path.

Sincerest gratitude,

Rene

Rene,
Thanks for your kind words! It is you, however, who is showing what passion you have for what it is you want to do. A few thoughts on a plan for accomplishing your goal of attending school and transitioning your career path.
*Research schools that fit your needs. I love Paul Mitchell Schools because of the warm, supportive, positive atmosphere and culture they believe in. Even at the corporate level, the culture doesn't change
* Check out the financial aid available at the school you want to attend. My school is flexible and lets me pay monthly installments of the total balance while I'm enrolled, although they do offer financial aid as any other higher learning institution would.
*Look into a very high end salon where, you might alternatively, apprentice to earn your certificate. You could make some money to pay your bills, wouldn't have to pay for school, but would spend almost 2 years as a glorified "shampoo" girl and hopefully would be taught and learn alongside a great stylist. This, of course, would be ideal if it turned out like that...I did not choose this route because I wanted an environment where I would be free to ask all the questions I wanted without feeling like I was a nuisance, was looking for the structure of a curriculum, and wanted the benefit of being in a "safe" learning environment where I would not be intimidated by stylists much more experienced than I. Most of all, I didn't want to be discouraged by a less than positive experience which I feared apprenticing might be.
*Consider saving up the tuition expenses now with a start date that is within a year.

Continued on next post

Rene,
FYI... You mentioned renting a booth at a salon and working for yourself. This came up as a topic of discussion in our class, and in PA, it is illegal to charge for booth rental at salons. You may want to look into whether or not it is in your state too.

Best of luck in your transition and don't worry about what your academia world may think of cosmetology. I too was worried about what anyone and everyone would think of me doing this, and surprisingly enough, more people than I ever are so proud of me for just moving my life in a direction that gives me more happiness. I was most worried about what my husband would think and he's been wonderfully supportive and is and investment banker...the last person who I would think would support the idea of being a hairstylist. He's been so pleased though to see the change in my overall approach to every day since starting school. My outlook on everything is sunnier and happier since doing this. It's effected everything from good times with my kids, to my husband, to a much more functional household. Amazing what being happy can do for you:0)

Let me know how it all works out for you!
Sandra

SheriC,
my name is Yannis. I was browsing the site when I found your testimonial here. It is a great description of the daily reality of the hair stylists. I'm a fitness and wellness professional. I'm developing right now a DVD for hairstylists on how to stand and move better while they work, so they can protect themselves. I would love to use what you wrote here in the forum for people to see the long term impact of the nature of this job. It took me a long time of study and research to develop these techniques in order to help the hairstylists. I see that the industry is in deep need of someone who can provide the "tools" to hairstylists to protect themselves, and I found it strange that nobody before me so the importance to do so. I hope I can give hairstylists something of value because I find them underrated and under-appreciated and I like to help the "underdogs." Thanks.

BMFitness in Redwood City, California said: SheriC,
... I would love to use what you wrote here in the forum for people to see the long term impact of the nature of this job. It took me a long time of study and research to develop these techniques in order to help the hairstylists. ....

Yannis, you're welcome to use what I wrote. People truly do not realize how constant movements of joints affects the body. It's more than "carpal tunnel" issues, which are relatively easy to alleviate for a time... only to have that type of issue to return.

Good hairstylists/colourists that are in high demand typically try to book as many clients as they can. Why? Because this is typically a commission business. (Not absolutely true, but I'd say over 90% of salons are commission only.) So, they work like DOGS GONE WILD and they **KNOW** how to push their bodies so they can perform, much like athletes push themselves. The only problem is there is no TRAINER to watch out and make sure that they are taking care of their hands and bodies. No one is bringing up in the salon the long term effects of NERVE DAMAGE: BECAUSE IT DOES HAPPEN. And once the nerves are damaged, it affects everything in your life. From trying to bend your wrist to wipe your buttocks (no joke... bought a Toto Jasmine (Google it) to help me out there. Even bought one for my mother who had severe Rheumatoid Arthritis, which I do not have.)

Having migraines is another culprit. Most brought on by *fragrances*, and I thought I was dying when a salon I worked for became an Aveda Concept Salon; "aroma therapy" type products, which produced migraines.

I eventually learned more about nerve damage from a neurologist, who gives me occipital nerve blocks (8-10 shots starting at the base of my skull, side of spine, & shoulders). Doing hair well & rights is detrimental to your future health. I'm 51 and know what I'm talking about.

Sheri C,

Wow -- everything that you have gone through and continue to endure sounds increadibly painful. I know previously you had indicated that you wouldn't work more than six hours a day and would not do shampoos amoung other things. My question is this -- knowing what you know now, would you choose to still have been a stylist? Is it something that you would or would not recommend getting into? I truly values your thoughts and insight.

Amy

Also: Does anyone know of scholarships available for cosmetology school? Unfortunatly due to my degrees I am no longer eligable for pell grants. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Hi SheriC,

sorry for my delayed reply, I wanted to thank you for your answer to my question and your permission to use your own experience for the benefit of other hair stylists. As a thank you I would like to offer you some tips from my own professional experience and knowledge.

If I understand correctly your biggest problem is the neural damage from years of abuse. There is a good side and a bad side to this. You can always regenerate the nerves and make them a whole lot better but it takes time and it needs a complete shift in your lifestyle. But, I am sure that the trade-ff to no pain is super good. The injections from your neurologist DO NOT solve the problem. They ONLY DEAL WITH THE SYMPTOMS. And there is a negative long term effect to the body from the drugs.

The best way to deal with the nerve rehabilitation is to attack the problem holistically from different angles:
1. You need to go to a good chiropractor. This is the best www.NUCCA.org
2. Ice your arms 2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes.
3. Nutrition: Get rid of all the sugar, including white carbs (pasta, bread, rice, potatoes) and fried foods.
4. Supplements: Omega 3, vitamin B-complex, for regeneration, bromelain, for the pain.
5. Exercise: Strengthening the weak muscles and stretching the tight muscles.
6. Proper biomechanics (how you move and stand) and ergonomics (how you arrange your work space)
If you want more details, please e-mail me at BMFitness@netscape.net and I will tell you more. I will send you also a few pictures with great stretches. Do this and you'll feel better

I'm 25 years old and trying to justify enrolling in cosmetology school after spending 4 years earning my BA in Fashion Design.

I have been considering going for a Masters in Industrial Design, but worry that I'd be right back in the same boat. Not to mention that the professors seem to go out of their way to make ID sound like a drag. Are they trying to recruit students or have their program dismantled? I'll never understand why creative majors have to be so tortured about everything.

Beauty school sort of seems like a step backward, but also sounds insanely fun. The economy sucks, we all know it. Companies can pick from a wide variety of talented and experienced designers who need work, so it's harder than ever for new graduates to break in. In my mind, hair is just another fiber within textile design. Designing hair would be a potentially enjoyable way to generate some income.

On the other hand, would I be able to pay off my $18,000 loan on the income of a hairdresser? Some people boast incomes well over $50k/yr while others cry out that they have been crippled and can barely make ends meet. I can only assume that this gap is caused by differences in talent/effort/personality/location.

I've come to the conclusion that I have as good a chance as anyone at being successful at cosmetology. I like going to school. The school is local. No unpaid student loans. No kids or pets. Boyfriend is willing to pay full rent. Already went to college and know how to study. Can continue to do my current graphic art job part time in the evenings. Friends have already volunteered their hair for practice (poor [expletive deleted]s). Took many business, science, and design courses in college. Current job involves creating various promotional materials. Have an extra room in our apartment if I want to set up a mini salon. Mom actually has a chair dryer for some reason. I'm healthy and not getting any younger. Why not? Let's do this.

Just because you have a college degree and plan to return to cosmetology school, it doesn't mean that you are taking a step backward. I have my masters degree and I plan to return to cosmetology school as well. I think of this as something in addition to the educatio that we have already obtained. I think of this industry as a scope of freedome for creativity, structure, and postive challenges. The traditional college education that we have earned will ultimatly be helpful when speaking with clients or even running our own business possibly in the future. I understand the concern, but keep up your great work in pursuing a career that you're passionate about instead of a career that doesn't necessarily advance you.

Thanks for the encouragement, Amy. It's funny, but instead of college helping me to communicate better within the cosmetology field, I think cosmetology will help me obtain the communication skills I never seemed to pick up in college. This may have had something to do with avoiding people I considered to have self-destructive behaviors (excessive drinking, drug use, being just plain crazy, etc). I imagine that doing hair will be a lot like speed dating, giving me the opportunity to try to read and talk to many different kinds of people on a daily basis in an environment where I have sharp objects to protect myself (kidding, sort of).

My speech patterns are a terrible combination of to-the-point, but that point is a little...off. Many people find this hilarious although that is not my intention. I have never interviewed well. Days of prep before interviews have helped with the nervousness, but I still lack the ability to come up with good (or even normal) answers on the spot. Answers and solutions that quickly come to other people's minds are not obvious to me. I think this is both the gift and the curse of creative thought. Questions about weaknesses that are meant to be engaging just seem like some old pointless formality. It's excruciating to follow the script, but it's not like I've got anything better.

What are everyone's thoughts on the Tony & Guy Academy?

Hi all, I just need some advice if you wouldn't mind?

I am an 18 year old college freshman studying apparel and merchandising, and although I love the school and the environment, I just can't justify making my parents pay 18,000 a year, while I am still not convinced college is for me, and not even sure what I want to do with y life. I have loved hair and makeup and fashion and all that stuff for a long time now, but recently decided I really would love to go to cosmetology school instead. Getting a degree in fashion I feel would not help me much, living in the non-fashion-state of Colorado.

As of now, I decided to finish out my first year and then transfer to a cosmetology school. It would be cheaper, as well as a faster degree, that I could start actually working within the next few years and making money, as opposed to paying money the next for years in hopes that my degree will get me somewhere. All of my cousins and friends that have graduated are having problems even finding jobs, and I don't want to go through 4 years for nothing.

My plan is to go through beauty school, and then do Colorado State online afterward (or during) fr 1 more year to receive a basic 2 year associates degree, just to have under my belt in case hairstyling is not for me.
Any suggestions? I'm so torn. What do you all think about a job as a hairstylist? Are you bored with it after so long? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!!!

Andrea, try to get an apprenticeship with a good company in a big city. I would try Vidal Sassoon or Tony and Guy in LA, Chicago, pr NYC. You can always go to College afterwards or start taking courses along the way. Just going to Cosmetology school won't cut it. There are also good places in the Orange county area.

Andrea in Littleton, Colorado said: Hi all, I just need some advice if you wouldn't mind?

I am an 18 year old college freshman studying apparel and merchandising, and although I love the school and the environment, I just can't justify making my parents pay 18,000 a year, while I am still not convinced college is for me, and not even sure what I want to do with y life. I have loved hair and makeup and fashion and all that stuff for a long time now, but recently decided I really would love to go to cosmetology school instead. Getting a degree in fashion I feel would not help me much, living in the non-fashion-state of Colorado.

As of now, I decided to finish out my first year and then transfer to a cosmetology school. It would be cheaper, as well as a faster degree, that I could start actually working within the next few years and making money, as opposed to paying money the next for years in hopes that my degree will get me somewhere. All of my cousins and friends that have graduated are having problems even finding jobs, and I don't want to go through 4 years for nothing.

My plan is to go through beauty school, and then do Colorado State online afterward (or during) fr 1 more year to receive a basic 2 year associates degree, just to have under my belt in case hairstyling is not for me.
Any suggestions? I'm so torn. What do you all think about a job as a hairstylist? Are you bored with it after so long? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!!!

Andrea in Littleton, Colorado said: Hi all, I just need some advice if you wouldn't mind?... My plan is to go through beauty school, and then do Colorado State online afterward (or during) fr 1 more year to receive a basic 2 year associates degree, just to have under my belt in case hairstyling is not for me.
Any suggestions? I'm so torn. What do you all think about a job as a hairstylist? Are you bored with it after so long? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!!!

I *hear* you, loud and clear. I do not know if you're paying out of state tuition or not, but $18K a year is ridiculous. I have paid a lot of money for kiddos to go to school and if you can live at home and go to college, then that's the way to go. It's only a short time in your life to get a degree that will serve you for the rest of your life.

If you want to make money at hairdressing, then educate yourself so you can attract the type of clients that are also educated. "Like" attracts "like". Dress professional, talk professional, be professional and you will become a success no matter the field of work you decide to choose. Always 'act' like the person that you want to become. Soon enough, you will not be acting. I've heard people say 'fake it till you make it'. I am not saying fake anything. I am saying believe in yourself.

I was once at a crossroads such as yourself. Parents will never feel that they are sacrificing for their child if the child does well and FINISHES WHAT THEY START. You will NEVER regret having a college degree; what you will always regret is not having one. It would be more beneficial if you got a degree with a skill, like CPA or teaching. Just having a 'degree' is only a key. A key to a specific door is more helpful, imho.

But, Mousie, thou art no thy lane,
In proving foresight may be vain;
The best-laid schemes o' mice an' men
Gang aft agley,
And lea'e us nought but grief an' pain
For promised joy!

Where did you all attend beauty school? I am looking at Regency, possibly Empire, and would love some feedback about them! :)

Janna in Calmar, Alberta said: Well if you love what you are doing, why let these people bring you down!

Trust what God has put in your heart, when you enjoy what your doing so will your clients. They will want to come to you just for the pleasant experience, you are not only touching their hair but their life...and they come to escape the stress and hopefully come out looking good in the midst of it. Don't listen to the nay sayers keep learning and be the best you can be. Your diligence will be rewarded....why go back to school to do something else you know you won't enjoy? This is your life and you only got one. Live it to the fullest! Be who you are:)

I want to know what do you think? I am 62 have been in college working on my bachelors for a while now but I am not sure I want to continue. I wanted to do hair when I was younger but never finished. Am I too old to do this?

The way i see it, you are never too old. You will make as much money as you choose to make. So if you are exceptionlly great, then you can charge as you wish and do well. You can hustle and make a good living, or work as you wish and do alright. It does usually take some time to develop a strong client base, but if hairstyling is your passion then you should follow your heart. This is a tough economy and college degrees are only needed in certain areas that are actually hiring. Learning a trade is never a bad thing. It will take about a year to complete. Good Luck!

Are there any part time only salons where a person can work 2 or 3 days for a smaller amount one would pay for full time space?

kat in Powder Springs, Georgia said: Are there any part time only salons where a person can work 2 or 3 days for a smaller amount one would pay for full time space?

If you understood how to trim down a business to work part time, you could. I did hair, went from full time to part time. Full time was 4 days(M,W,T,F), 3 days (M,W,F 8-5), 2 days every week(M,F), then to 2 days (W,T) every other week when I moved two hours away. I did not work nights or Saturdays. Why? Because I did not want to build a clientele that needed me on those days. Period. I built a clientele that had money and could afford me. Most of my clients had spouses that supported them, or had jobs that allowed them the freedom to get their hair done during my business hours. I was a single mother for many years and I had to pick up my children by 5:30 and I was leaving work at 5:15, so I was DONE by 5 o'clock, no exceptions. NONE. My clients 'got' it, or they went to someone else. Period. KNOW your clients and them little about you. Also, I made the same money working 4 days a month as working FULL TIME. I started working smarter booking only certain types of appointments, which is another story...

SheriC in Green Cove Springs, Florida said: If you understood how to trim down a business to work part time, you could. I did hair, went from full time to part time. Full time was 4 days(M,W,T,F), 3 days (M,W,F 8-5), 2 days every week(M,F), then to 2 days (W,T) every other week when I moved two hours away. I did not work nights or Saturdays. Why? Because I did not want to build a clientele that needed me on those days. Period. I built a clientele that had money and could afford me. Most of my clients had spouses that supported them, or had jobs that allowed them the freedom to get their hair done during my business hours. I was a single mother for many years and I had to pick up my children by 5:30 and I was leaving work at 5:15, so I was DONE by 5 o'clock, no exceptions. NONE. My clients 'got' it, or they went to someone else. Period. KNOW your clients and them little about you. Also, I made the same money working 4 days a month as working FULL TIME. I started working smarter booking only certain types of appointments, which is another story...

SheriC! I am 23yo and graduating from the Houston Aveda Institute in a month. I would really love to get in touch with you for advice. I hope to accomplish what you have seemed to do. I have a lot of drive and passion
but want to start smart so that i'm not breaking my back in 15 years for a $10 dollar tip. I would love to pick an experienced stylist's brain.

Aja.masterson@gmail.com

Just wanted to follow up on the people om this forum, to see whatever happened...please share if you are still out there!

Erica in Charlotte,NC said: wow! this site is great! i am also a new hairstylist. im apprenticing at a nice busy salon in charlotte,NC. i went to this salon right after school and my concern is that it is departmentalized. if i one day want to work for myself, or booth rent...do you think i need to learn the best of both worlds? i love every aspect of coloring and cutting, so having to choose bothers me, but it seems as though its the new trend! i hear departmentalizing is more for benefiting the salon rather than making a hair stylist wealthy. any comments?

Where do you work? I'm looking to get back to a departmentalized salon and I'm having a hard time finding salons here in charlotte.

Loving what you do is all that matters, cause it doesn't mean a thing to have a degree and you hate your job. You have what most people want, the satisfaction of loving what you do :)

aholley in Union, Kentucky said: I too am 35 and after 10 years in finance I quit to do hair. I am in my 4th month of school and I'm loving it. No you aren't to old. I thought the same thing. Many women are changing careers and doing what they love. Now the majority of girls going to the school are teens and in their 20's but there are a hand full of 35, 45 year old women in my school. You'll never know unless you try it! Go for it!!

could you tell how is it now, that you are finish with school? how do you like the field now and are you working fulltime? i too plan to go back to hair school after working in the medical field for 10 years. thanks

Hi I'm 20 years old and I'm considering going to Paul Mitchell's school. I'm just really confused because I want to make money and be successful at what I love, but I hear most people say that you don't make good money in this industry. If I don't choose Paul Mitchell, I'm going to go to school to be a nurse, but I honestly don't think I will enjoy it as much as I would the cosmetology field.
I would like to know as a Paul Mitchell graduate what is job placement like and how much money does this make you?
I'm just really getting my life started and I don't want to struggle like I did growing up. I want to make good money doing what I love, that's why I'm asking.
If anybody can give me advice it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Hi everyone I am 31 yrs old mother of 3 and am really thinking about attending Cosmetology school. I have an appointment today for a tour. I am really not sure if this is something I want to do. Absolutely no one in my family supports this career. I have read enough career books that tell you to think back to when you were a child and what did you enjoy dong. When I think back I loved Barbies, clothes, hair and shoes. When I go to beauty supply stores I get an excitement inside. I could be in there for hours. I wanted to do this career 10yrs ago but my mother discouraged me. So I became a medical receptionist for 12yrs and I hated every minute of it. Now here I am 10yrs later and still wanting to pursue this career. I have a friend who just graduated cosmetology school and works at an exclusive salon in their 9mo apprentice program. She said she absolutely loves it and if she had to do it again she would. The downside is the pay. She said she only makes $9-10/hr and it barely covers the gas in her ford expedition so she does home healthcare on the side. She said she knows in 2years she will make alot more. I love her attitude because she is doing something she enjoys. My husband wants the money now, big house fancy cars even if that means hating your job and being on the verge of jumping out a window. Of course I want to make money I have children but I want to be happy. I am creative, I love fashion, Art, drawing and obsessed with shoes and hair. I hate being stuck in an office for 8hours answering phones. This is why I want to try out this profession. I feel that I am still young enough, everyone swears I am 19 because I have a very young face which runs in my family. I look at it like this, if I do this I will give it my all, be the best I can be and if I fail I can always do something else but at least I tried and will no longer be curious. My family wants me to be a nurse because of the pay but I want to be happy.

Don't ever let anyone change YOUR mind. You do what YOU want. If you have a alent for making people look beautiful DO IT. I would love to work in a nice salon and take home tips every day. Who knows, someday you might have your own TV show like Tabitha!

Liz in Los Angeles, California said: LOVE THIS SITE!! So, I'm one of those people considering a lifestyle/career change... AND at the top of my list is becoming a hairstylist. BUT, I feel a little overwhelmed when I look at different schools (Aveda, Paul Mitchell, Toni and Guy, local JC's etc) and really not sure the best and most cost effective direction to take. Any advice?? I do have a big reservation... I'm 30. Yep, just turned the big 3-0. Maybe I'm just insecure about it, but I'm wondering if I'm too old to really start in this profession and to become successful at it. I would greatly appreciate any help or advice anyone is willing to give me. HELP!!

I just graduated from Paul Mitchell The School, Huntsville, and I am 49 years old! Go for it, if I can do it, you can. I can't wait to get back to Los Angeles. And support myself as a single woman. To the ladies/gents - get a great education and be prosperous xoxo

Well everyone, I went in for my tour yesterday at International Institute of Cosmetology. The school was amazing and the tool kit you get was unbelievable. I loved the curriculum and everything was state of the art. I was all ready to sign up even after hearing that the tuition was $20,000. but then the admission rep told me there was a $50 app fee and a $150 registration fee which is fine with me but then she said I had to pay a $1500 downpayment that was not included in financial aid. I was crushed because I am a mom of 3 and I really cant afford to just drop $1500 for a downpayment. I have been to schools before and I have never been asked to put down so much money. I really love the school and don't want to go anywhere else but that is just too much. The admission rep said they never did that before but they want to separate the students from who is really interested because you are putting money down. I think being responsible for $20,000 of student loans shows that you are interested. I think I might call the Paul Mitchell school and see if they are the same way.

I feel 20,000.00 for school is just too much, when I went in 1984 it cost 2,500.00 it took me 5 yrs to pay it off at 50.00 a month. The education basics is the same as when I went to school just the price went up. When I went back to school 5 yrs latter to get my Instructors license it cost nothing and I got a check for 300.00 I aplied for a pell grant and student loan and the grant must of covered everything.I really feel an evaluation should be given for how much a stylist really makes an hour and what their chance of benefits are in this industry, and a school should not charge any higher than what a student would make for a average living expense, and no student loan should be given to a school that does not meet the requirements, this would be a buyer be where red flag. You can wish in one hand and piss in another and see wish one fills up faster.

Adrienne in Sarasota, Florida said: I was not talking about LAZY hairstylists simply because they choose to work 9-3, that is their choice. They can give the best service in those hours and not be deemed LAZY. it depends on what your agenda is. If that's what I chose to do, than that will be what I do. If I am good enough, I will have clients. Of course Saturday is a necessary day to work. As with any CAREER the more you put into it the more you will get out of it. Anyone wanting to do hair has a love of doing hair, so it may be of little significance how many hours they are putting in if they love being there. If your friend hates what she's doing ( and is a mother of four) I'm sure she could tell her clients when she is available, and then it is a matter of prioritzing one's life. For me family would come first.

Yes I am totally agree with you. There are no stylist Lazy, for reason the stylist can not come to work on schedule busy time because of family. Life is too short
Busy making money to forget about family it is not the point. Also depend on the job you are doing, some of stylist love what they are doing and however they can put their heart on the job because their have life

liz in Los Angeles, California said: That's it, I'm SOLD!! I was leaning toward Aveda, but as I said before, the tuition was holding me back. After reading your advice/reviews... I'm going for it. My age worries me a little (30... YIKES!!), but I think that I'm just going to have to get over it and tell myself that 30 really is the new 20. Gulp. ;-) Thanks guys for your help and sharing your experiences. I really needed to hear them. Any other words of wisdom/advice, etc. is more than welcomed.

I haven't read the rest of the thread, so forgive me if you have posted about whether or not you have completed school and how it went. Thanks

Secret Stylist in Scottsdale, Arizona said: I feel 20,000.00 for school is just too much, when I went in 1984 it cost 2,500.00 it took me 5 yrs to pay it off at 50.00 a month. The education basics is the same as when I went to school just the price went up. When I went back to school 5 yrs latter to get my Instructors license it cost nothing and I got a check for 300.00 I aplied for a pell grant and student loan and the grant must of covered everything.I really feel an evaluation should be given for how much a stylist really makes an hour and what their chance of benefits are in this industry, and a school should not charge any higher than what a student would make for a average living expense, and no student loan should be given to a school that does not meet the requirements, this would be a buyer be where red flag. You can wish in one hand and piss in another and see wish one fills up faster.

I went through a local ROP program here in southern CA and paid for nothing but my kit, which was $350.00. It got me my license, which should be the point of beauty school. You can get advanced classes for 1000 bucks at Paul Mitchell or Aveda once you've gotten your license.

I see a lot of replies in this thread saying "do what you love" and I agree with that, but when older women/men go into the industry at 40 or 50 plus, it really concerns me. If you do not have a nest egg and something saved for retirement, you may be living in poverty in 30 years when you can no longer do hair. I think it's important to think ahead. Those that have a college degree will be better off later in life if they have to switch careers if it doesnt work out. If you are older and cannot go to beauty school without getting into debt, I wouldnt do it. Sorry.

Before making a concrete decision to be a hair stylist, I have two essential recommendations that I can offer that each potential hair stylist should do to gain more clarity on the matter:
1) Shadow a hair stylist or work as a receptionist in a hair salon for a minimum of four weeks to get a feel for how things really work in a salon. See how a stylist interacts with their clients, what is expected of them. You need to see the different personalities that come through the door. Working in a salon is not fun and games every day. You will encounter grouchy, bitchy people who can never be pleased.

2) Take the Myers Briggs personality test to see what your personality is and if being a hair stylist is a good career match for you. If you are highly introverted, you probably will not enjoy being a stylist. Stylists come in all varieties and not all are highly outgoing, but you need to truly enjoy talking to people and getting to know them. It can be draining to talk to people all day and be "on" at all times. As a hair stylist, it's part of your job. Clients won't enjoy sitting in your chair if you are not talkative, a bit "up" and can keep a conversation going. This can be draining for introverts.

So I have a meeting with the manager at a salon on Tuesday, they asked me to bring in an updated resume. My problem is that I have no work experience in a salon. I am licensed both in AZ and Ca but have not had the chance to work because I don't have clientele(and cali took forever getting me a test date for my exams.) What should my resume look like? what do they not want to see on it?? Your advice would be greatly appreciated!!

I've been looking into going back to school for cosmotology. It's great to read all of the advice and experiences. I'm 35 an I think you're never too old to learn some thing new, I think it's time for me to learn some thing new and move on. I've been in the same dead end part time job in retail for 10 years with out seeing a promotion or much appreciation. Right now I'm lucky if I get more then 5 hours a week at $10.77 per hour. I'm so bored because I don't have the money to do any thing besides grocery shopping. I've tried to get other jobs but they never seam to work out.
When I think of going back to school it scares me a bit, but I need to do some thing different, more creative and rewarding. It also wouldn't hurt to earn more money and work more hours.

This forum is very informative. I stumbled upon it trying to glean more information about becoming a stylist. I love seeing the positive and negative aspects of joining the field. I am still debating when the timing will work for me as I have a 10 month old son as well as a 3.5 year old daughter that I quit corporate america to stay home with. I have no intention of going back to that soul sucking environment but where else does one make $60+k a year? I have no problem earning less if I can set my own hours/days. I get stir crazy if I am not busy and being an independent stylist has that flexibility - if you can afford to take fewer days.

I have decided to go the quick and cheap route as I want to pay off my debt inside of one year of working. If I only pay $7k vs $18k that is a HUGE difference. I caution all young ladies about taking on large debts. It takes a lot of effort to pay back $20 grand! Make sure you understand the pressure of owning that much. I will spend my cash on advanced training after getting my license.

My question is how to find an internship/apprenticeship in the Pacific NW? Not super common over here. Is the smartest thing to find the most successful stylist to work for? or just the most technically skilled? My desire is to become an expert cut and colorist as I've been told that is where the most demand is.

Also, age is just a number. As long as you have a youthful attitude, sense of personal style and are easy to talk to you should have no problem with gaining a clientele. If you have an abrasive personality, like to complain frequently, I would choose another career path as people don't like going to negative stylists. They want to do the talking. You are the listener & technician. Also, I agree with the comments regarding the spelling/grammar I see here and there on this thread. Atrocious. Young ladies - spelling and grammar matter!

I have a college certificate in fine arts and floral design and look where I ended up. Working in an arts and crafts store for the last 10 years. I also worked in a flower shop before that for about 4 years. It all depends on path you chose to take.
I'm trying not to be negative and I don't complain a lot. Don't take me wrong I'm greatful that I have a job it's just time for me to move on from it. I'm usually friendly and easy to get a long with I'm also creative. I'm not the most out going person in the world but I can talk with people. Even though I work at a craft store, I don't get to do any thing creative while I'm at work.
When people tell me I can't do it or it's too hard, that only pushes me more to do it. I know it can take a while to get estabolished but if I'm determined enough to become a really good hair stylist (and gain lots of clients) then I could at least make a good living out of it. I know I would be happier, if I can making a living out of a career where I can use my creativity.
By the way: I don't think there is a spell check or grammer check on this site, would be nice if they had it.
As for finding an apprentice maybe do some research on salons in your area even cold call them and ask around. Or even try in the next town or city closest to you if you can't find one in your area. If you have any friends with good hair cuts find out where they got their hair done and ask the stylist they can take on an apprentice.