Good morning, everyone. Happy Wednesday, and welcome back to the Institute Insider podcast. As always, I’m your host, Maria, and on this channel, we cover all things beauty school. From the admissions process to student life and the success that follows our students after graduation, we represent the Institute of Beauty and Wellness in Milwaukee, as well as the Aveda Institute Madison. On today’s podcast, we are going to be talking to Margo Ice, a cosmetology student at the Aveda Institute Madison. This isn’t a new gig for her, as she has grown up watching her mother work as a cosmetologist. Let’s dive into her journey and experiences during these challenging times.
Margo’s Background and Journey into Cosmetology
Margo’s Introduction
Maria: Good morning, Margo. I haven’t seen you since our photo shoot at Madison. How have you been doing?
Margo: I’ve been doing well, Maria. A lot has changed since then. I had my online class this morning, and it went well. We’re trying to get as many hours as we can so we can graduate and continue with our careers.
Maria: So how is hybrid learning going for you? How has that been?
Margo: At first, it was a big change. Many people find change hard, and it all happened so quickly. One day, I was packing up my stuff from Madison and heading home. But Aveda made it worthwhile. They organized sessions with industry experts, which kept us engaged and learning, unlike some of my friends at other beauty schools who weren’t as fortunate.
Adapting to Hybrid Learning
Hybrid Learning Experience
Maria: That’s fantastic to hear. So are you excited to get back on the floor? When is your class moving back to campus?
Margo: I’ve been back on campus for about two weeks now. I do online classes on Tuesday and Wednesday, and I’m at school Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. We’re gradually getting back into the swing of things, learning the new guidelines, and adjusting to safety protocols like wearing masks and face shields.
Safety and Adjustments
Safety Measures in Place
Maria: How do you feel about the protective measures in place? Are you feeling safe?
Margo: Yes, I feel very safe. Everyone cleans everything they touch, and while wearing a mask can be uncomfortable, it’s necessary. Our temperatures are taken before we enter the building, which adds an extra layer of reassurance.
Favorite Topics and Future Learning
Learning Phases and Interests
Maria: What phase are you in now?
Margo: I’m finally in my last phase, which is exciting. We’ve learned so much, but my favorite part has been seeing transformations through coloring. It’s like painting, and it’s different every time.
Maria: What are you looking forward to learning next?
Margo: I’m really interested in learning more about textured hair. In my hometown, not many people specialize in it, and I want to provide that service. My instructors are very supportive and always ask us what we want to learn more about.
Growing Up with Cosmetology
Early Influences
Maria: Let’s talk about your background. What initially got you interested in the beauty industry?
Margo: My mother is a cosmetologist and owns her own salon. Growing up, it was normal for me to see her work. I started braiding mannequins at home and doing updos for friends’ dances in high school. It was something I enjoyed, and I realized I could make a career out of it.
Career Aspirations and Future Plans
Future Goals
Maria: That’s wonderful. What do you want to bring to the cosmetology world that perhaps your mom didn’t have?
Margo: Balayage is something my mom didn’t learn about in school, and I want to bring that to her salon. Also, I want to cater to people with textured hair, providing services they might not find locally.
Maria: Are you planning to join your mom in her salon?
Margo: Eventually, yes. For now, I plan to work at a salon to gain more experience. Later, when my mom is ready to retire, I’d love to take over her salon.
Discovering Aveda
First Impressions of Aveda
Maria: Did you know about the Aveda brand before entering the Institute?
Margo: Surprisingly, no. It wasn’t well-known in my town. But once I found out about it, I was impressed by their professional environment and supportive staff.
Top Aveda Products
Favorite Products
Maria: Since joining, what are your top three Aveda products?
Margo: I love the hydrating skincare products, the black mascara because it’s free of harmful ingredients, and their glosses which feel refreshing and don’t stain.
Experience at Aveda Institute Madison
Choosing Aveda Institute
Maria: What drew you to the Aveda Institute?
Margo: The professional atmosphere and welcoming staff, especially Katie from admissions, made a huge impression. The personal attention and knowing everyone’s name reminded me of my small-town school experience.
Maria: Did you go for the full-time program?
Margo: Yes, I wanted to get in and get out, so I chose the full-time program.
Instructors and Learning Environment
Learning from Different Instructors
Maria: Who are your instructors, and how have they influenced you?
Margo: I’ve had amazing instructors like Hailey, Danielle, and Sam. Each brings a unique perspective, which is crucial in this industry. They all have different experiences and insights to share.
Madison as a Student City
Living in Madison
Maria: How do you like Madison as a city for attending school?
Margo: Madison is great because it has a college town vibe without the dorm life. I love my apartment and enjoy the youthful energy around the city.
Specializing in Cosmetology
Areas of Specialization
Maria: Have you thought of specializing in any form of cosmetology?
Margo: I want to offer a variety of services, from cuts and colors to eyelash and hair extensions. Being versatile is important to me.
Trends and Personal Style
Current Hair Trends
Maria: What hairstyle trends are you into right now?
Margo: I’m all about clean cuts and highlights. During quarantine, I chopped my hair short, and I love it. It’s fresh and fun.
Marketing on Social Media
Social Media Strategy
Maria: How do you plan to market yourself on social media?
Margo: I want my Instagram to look sleek and professional. I’m focusing on posting my work consistently, but I also plan to add more personal content over time.
Advice for Future Students
Tips for Prospective Students
Maria: Any advice for students thinking about applying to the Institute’s cosmetology program?
Margo: Don’t stress over things you can’t control. This year has been unpredictable, but it’s important to stay adaptable and keep learning.
Maria: What do you wish you had known before starting school?
Margo: It’s harder than I thought. Beauty school isn’t easy, and it requires a lot of hands-on work and time on your feet. I have a new appreciation for hairstylists now.
Future Aspirations
Five-Year Plan
Maria: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Margo: I want to be settled in a community, running my own salon, and balancing work with life experiences. Stability and flexibility are my goals.
Maria: Thank you for sharing your journey, Margo. Your insights are invaluable to future students and those considering a career in cosmetology.
Follow Margo on Instagram at excellence.in.styling. Clearly, she’s excellent in styling!
If this story inspired you to start your own journey, contact our admissions team to learn more about how to get started, or check out other Institute Insider episodes to hear more personal stories.