I’m from a small town in South Georgia. We have a technical college, and a lot of the girls I graduated with decided to go into the cosmetology program there. Knowing this is what I wanted to do with the rest of my life, I wouldn’t settle for just any education. I even went to a university in North Georgia for a semester, sure that I was going to be unhappy finishing college with a cut and dry career. I decided to do some research. Hair and make-up are my greatest passions in life, but I couldn’t bring myself to stay close to home and be like every other stylist in the area. I wanted to push harder, learn more, and be better. I found myself on the Aveda Institute website and knew immediately it was what I needed. Upon entering school, I was excited and thought it would be a breeze and fun and games. I then got a huge wake-up call. Even though we have our fun days and activities, Aveda is a serious school. We work on timing, consistency, guest satisfaction, professionalism and product knowledge. Everything we do sets us apart from the technical schools because we work THAT much harder. 10 hours a day is no joke. Even in A1, we’re constantly on our feet working to achieve our goals. If our educators weren’t so passionate about what they do, it would be even harder, however, they are the most supportive team I’ve ever been a part of in my life. Being a stylist is definitely hard work, especially if you want to be a good one. It’s so very worth it though.
I plan to leave Aveda with a good head on my shoulders. I plan to be prepared and ready for what the real world holds for me. This institute is tough and you have to stay on top of things, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the world. I call this place my second home. We’re a family that strives toward the same goal and to be perfect at what we do because we’re doing what we love.
If you’re planning on coming to Aveda, be prepared to work and make some of the best memories of your life. Come in with a positive attitude and keep it! It’s not always going to be easy, but that’s what sets Aveda apart from the others.
Blog post by Aveda Institute Tallahassee student: Kayla Gibson
