If you’re planning on enrolling in beauty school, or even if you’re just considering the possibility, you know who would be really interested? Your hair stylist. If you’re still on the fence about going to cosmetology school, your hair stylist is a great person to discuss with you what he or she enjoys about her job and what challenges were presented at beauty school. No one else can provide the unique "been there" perspective.

When you share your intentions, don’t be surprised if your hair stylist gets really excited about the idea! After all, you’re sort of following in his or her footsteps. It makes that person a role model, even a mentor. You had to get an idea of what it would be like to be a professional cosmetologist from somewhere, and your hair stylist may assume it was right in your current salon. If you’re aiming to become a nail tech or esthetician and use the services of one now, I’m betting that mentioning your cosmetology career goal to that person will generate the same enthusiasm.

Once you start your classes at cosmetology school, continue to keep your hair stylist informed of your progress. You’ll both find it fulfilling to "talk shop," and you’ll develop a bond that can benefit you in many ways, including free advice when you start looking for a job. You may even want to consider working in that beauty salon, but in any case your hair stylist can point you in the right direction as you begin your cosmetology career.