“Aw, man, broken nail again. I don’t have time to go get a filling?”

Good news, you don’t have to go far to fix it, because here at Miami High we have our very own salon shop and it’s not even expensive. Miami High’s Cosmetology Program can provide you with haircuts, manicures, pedicures, and more.

There are so many electives to choose from at Miami High, what makes some students choose Cosmetology? “I picked this class because I clearly have a passion for hair, make-up and nails. In the future, I want to help others look their best. I’ve helped my friends and family style their hair and make-up on several occasions, and I have really enjoyed it,” said sophomore Ninoska Garcia.

“I chose cosmetology because I like being able to bring out someone’s inner beauty whether it’s with their hair color, skin, or nails,” added senior Cristal Bentancourt.” I like being able to help someone bring out who they really are even if it’s with a simple blow dry or nail color.”

What do students like most the class?

Taking this class can be beneficial for students who wish to have a career in cosmetology.  Sophomore Karina Castillo likes that they have so much hands-on training, and because they have a lot of training, it will help her get better in the areas that she’s weak in.

Junior Gabriela Cruz likes learning the different techniques of braiding hair.

What is most challenging about the class?

That doesn’t mean the class doesn’t have challenges.  “The most challenging thing for me is the consultation. I have to find out what my client likes and doesn’t like, and also the client needs to feel confident that I can give them what they want,“ said sophomore Stephanie Solis- Duarte.

For sophomore Virginia Marrero the biggest challenge in the class is learning to adjust to working hours because our teacher is preparing us for real life situations. She said, “We have to know how to act with our clients and what we can do to keep them happy.”

What is expected from the students?

Expectations are high for students in the program. Cosmetology teacher Ms. Northcut said, “Students should begin their cosmetology training in their sophomore year and commit to the program for three consecutive years. If the students do not complete all cosmetology program requirements by the end of their senior year, they are encouraged to complete their program at an adult learning facility-offering cosmetology.”

Taking this class is not cheap, but if you’re really committed you’ll find that it pays off. Ms. Northcut says that prospective students and their families can anticipate purchasing approximately $150-$200 of nail training equipment/supplies, $150 to $200 of skin care materials/supplies, and $220-$250 of hair training equipment/supplies.

How do you get this class?

Subject selection for the upcoming school year traditionally takes place during the month of February, according to Ms. Northcut. She said, “Students that wish to take Cosmetology must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher, demonstrate a positive attitude, have a desire to work as a team member, a willingness to work on and touch others (hands, feet, legs, head, neck, face and hair), act responsibly and maturely, and hold excellent conduct and attendance records.

To be considered for enrollment into the Cosmetology program, application forms can be obtained from Ms. Northcut in room 2104. Application forms must be completely filled out and require a recommendation from a current core area teacher and parental/guardian signature.

When is the salon open and what are the prices?

The cosmetology department here at Miami High offers some services to both students and teachers on Thursdays and Fridays. During periods 2 and 6, they can get a manicure for $5 and/or pedicure for $7.

Also during 1^st and 7^th period they can get their hair shampooed, conditioned, and blow dried (flat ironing is an extra $6) The prices depend on the length of their hair. If they have short hair it’s $8, medium hair (shoulder length) is $10, long hair (shoulder length or longer) will be $15.

A deep condition treatment costs $8, and a dandruff treatment costs $5. During periods 5 and 8 they can receive a facial for $8 (Pevonia facial is $15). Eyebrow, lip or toe wax is $5, 1/2 leg (below knee) is $10, and full leg is $20. Students must arrive promptly and hold an official pass from their sending teacher.