If you are considering cosmetology school as a way to train for your desired career, you have many types of programs in which you can channel your dreams. Whether you want to style hair, work as a skincare specialist, makeup artist, or nail technician, there are likely several options for training in your area. Sometimes, students hold back on pursuing beauty school because they have negative misconceptions about the experience. These common “myths” can stop talented students from achieving their professional goals in a fun, creative career path with opportunities across the nation.
Take a few moments to review these common beauty school myths. Maybe these will help you realize that becoming a professional in the world of beauty can be a solid choice for a dynamic long-term career. Once you’re ready to compare your options for training, let us help you compare beauty schools near you. Their advisors can help clear up any other questions you have about the enrollment process, classroom experience, and opportunities you can seek once you complete their program.
Myth 1: Cosmetology Is A Backup Career
There are many people who have a preconception that a person needs to acquire a 4-year degree at minimum to land a respectable career. This couldn’t be further from the truth. There are plenty of people who don’t follow a traditional academic path and achieve as much success in their careers as those who do. Ask any salon owner or stylist who makes their own schedule, works in a fun environment, and loves their clients, if they have any regrets about not spending 4-6 years in school. Plus, many people earn a degree and then choose a completely different career path. It all boils down to the question: What are you passionate about? If you feel compelled towards a beauty career as your first choice, don’t be afraid to explore it!
Myth 2: Beauty Schools Do Not Offer Financial Aid Or Scholarships
First of all, there are a wide variety of beauty schools, with many different types of financial options for students. Some schools offer students traditional forms of financial aid opportunities, along with scholarships that can help students pay down the cost of their tuition. Other beauty schools offer financing plans if enrolling students do not qualify for financial aid programs. Either way, most schools understand that all types of students require financial help to pay for their education. So don’t let this myth about beauty school hold you back from comparing your options for training.
Myth 3: Older Students Need Not Apply
Since we are used to seeing beautiful, young faces adorn the advertisements for beauty products, it’s easy to think that cosmetology careers are only for young professionals. This isn’t true at all! Whether you have been a stay-at-home parent for decades or spent the last several years working in another career your adult life, you can always consider beauty school training. All stylists age over time and continue to have fruitful careers they love, along with clients that stick with them through the years. Don’t let your age hold you back from pursuing your aspirations! When you speak with advisors about local programs, don’t be afraid to discuss this concern. They will likely assure you that plenty of students make the same decision after years of walking a different path in life.
Myth 4: You Can’t Earn A Decent Living
This is a myth that is usually told by people who don’t understand the diverse opportunities for professionals in the field of beauty and cosmetology. Since stylists, makeup artists, estheticians, and nail techs can work full or part-time, the average salary potential can depend on how much you work. But this is also a benefit of working in a field that gives you such flexibility. Where you work can also have a great impact on your average salary. When you speak with beauty school advisors, ask about potential salary for licensed professionals in your area. They can help you understand your options for employers and salary expectations.
Myth 5: Your Options Are Limited
This myth is untrue for several reasons. As mentioned, there are several types of beauty professionals. When you become a licensed cosmetologist you will likely be qualified to work with hair, skin and nails, since many programs cover all three. Also, the Bureau of Labor Statistics currently projects 13% job growth for beauty professionals through 2026. Meanwhile, the job growth for all other careers is 7%, a little over half of what beauty professionals can expect. So the next time someone tells you that beauty is a dead end career path, seek a second (or third) opinion by speaking with schools near you. In fact, your instructors and school advisors likely have their own personal experience in the field. They will be able to help you bust this myth and understand what career options you can pursue.
Still Believe In Beauty School Myths That Are Holding You Back?
Have we changed any misconceptions you previously had about going to beauty school? Do you have more questions or concerns about choosing the right program? Let us connect you with local cosmetology schools so you can move forward with your life, and towards the career you’re daydreaming about. Put your love for beauty and style to work in less time than it takes to earn a traditional degree. Contact the cosmetology schools in your area right now to learn how you can make it happen as quickly as possible!