The first time cutting someone’s hair in the salon at the Hamilton-Fulton-Montgomery BOCES Career and Technical Center (CTC) was an insecure moment for cosmetology student Jade Bonneau.
“I did a cut on a male client which I had never done before. I was terrified,” recalled the Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville senior.
Bonneau said she was scared because she didn’t want to mess it up and was afraid the individual wouldn’t like it.
“I had no confidence at the time,” stated Bonneau.
However, through classroom instruction and participation in ‘salon days’ at the CTC, Bonneau has been able to improve her skill set and gain confidence as she prepares to become a licensed cosmetologist.
On salon days, the senior students in the program invite classmates and members of the public for services ranging from cuts and coloring to manicures, pedicures and more. Bonneau is one of 27 seniors in the cosmetology program that participate. Following state requirements and under the supervision of highly trained industry expert teachers, students gain real work experience while working in the salon.
According to HFM Career & Technical Education cosmetology teachers Amanda Landrio and Brianna Rivas, salon days have been a great experience for their students.
“Salon days are an essential component of their education and will help them get prepared for future success in the cosmetology field,” said the pair. “We are hopeful that the knowledge they gain in professionalism, life skills, and the beauty industry will have them ready to be valuable assets in our surrounding communities. Watching their confidence grow as they offer services to the public brings us so much joy.”
Nevaeh Rivers said she has participated in three different salon days. The Fort Plain senior has performed a cut, a blowout with tinsel, a pedicure, and has also assisted a classmate with a cut and highlights.
“My very first experience was a pedicure. I was nervous, but the client actually talked me through it so I wouldn’t be so nervous. It came out good in the end,” said Rivers.
She plans to enroll in college next fall to study business while also working part-time in a salon. Rivers said her goal is to own her own salon in the future.
Madison Pero said her first time cutting a patron’s hair in the salon was nerve-wracking.
“By the end of the cut though I felt more confident in my abilities.”
The Broadalbin-Perth senior said she plans to pursue another form of higher education after high school, but will test for her cosmetology license as soon as she can. To qualify for the exam, students must complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of approved instruction.
Pero said having her license will give her the ability to work part time during college to earn money.
Amsterdam student Odette Rivera said that prospective students who may be considering enrolling in the program should keep an open mind.
“This program, like any program, can be difficult,” she said. “There are hard days, but don’t give up. It will all pay off in the future.”
