Take a Look Inside!

Your tools play a huge role in your beauty school journey. That鈥檚 why every student at 海角社区 receives a professional-grade student kit 鈥� packed with everything you need to train, practice, and build real confidence in class and beyond.

Let鈥檚 break down what鈥檚 inside and how each item helps you grow.

The Full Breakdown

Shears & Clippers

• Clippers with guards for fades and men鈥檚 cuts
• Two sets of shears and texture shears for all cutting techniques
• Razor and blades for layering and detail work

Brushes & Combs

• Paddle brushes, round brushes, detanglers
• Rat-tail combs, sectioning combs, wide-tooth combs
• Tools for styling, sectioning, and heat application

Mannequin Heads

• Multiple mannequins with varying textures
• Great for practicing cutting, coloring, updos, and perms
• Includes stands for hands-on work at your station

Styling Tools

• Professional blow dryer with attachments
• Flat iron (陆鈥� and 1鈥�)
• Marcel curling iron 鈥� a salon-standard tool

Nail & Skin Tools

• OPI nail kit: nail files, buffers, polish, and brushes
• Practice hand and foot for nail care techniques
• Dermalogica skin care kit: applicators, sponges, analysis tools
• Facial mannequin for esthetics practice

Makeup Kit

• Foundation palettes, lipsticks, eye shadows
• Makeup brushes and sponges
• Bodyography makeup kit for a real-world training experience

Apron & Cape

• Keeps you and your clients clean during services
• Required for all practical salon floor work

Tool Bag or Rolling Case

• Durable, organized rolling bag
• Easy to store and carry your full kit between home and school

What Makes This Kit Different?

This isn鈥檛 just a starter pack 鈥� it鈥檚 real equipment for real work. These are the same kinds of tools you鈥檒l find in professional salons and spas. Empire instructors teach you how to use them, care for them, and master each one with confidence.

By the time you graduate, you’ll not only know how to use these tools, you’ll already feel at home using them.

Internal Resources

• Explore the Cosmetology Program
• View All Program Options
• Apply Now to Get Started

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to buy my own tools?
No 鈥� the student kit is included with your tuition. You鈥檒l receive it during your first few days on campus.

Can I keep the tools after I graduate?
Yes. The kit is yours to keep 鈥� many students continue using these tools as they start their careers.

Are kits the same at every campus?
Mostly, yes 鈥� but some campuses may have slight variations based on your state鈥檚 licensing requirements or program type.

Ready to Check It Out for Yourself?

Your kit is more than just equipment 鈥� it鈥檚 your foundation. You鈥檒l use these tools daily while training, taking clients, and preparing for your state board exam. Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post What鈥檚 in the Empire Student Kit? appeared first on 海角社区.

Why Choose a Career in Beauty

If you’re on the fence about beauty school or wondering if cosmetology is a good fit, you’re not alone. A career in beauty isn鈥檛 just about hair or makeup 鈥� it鈥檚 about connection, creativity, and building something of your own.

Here鈥檚 why thousands of students choose to start their careers in beauty each year 鈥� and why it might be the right path for you, too.

1. Creative Freedom Every Day

This isn鈥檛 a desk job. You鈥檒l use your hands and your imagination every single day. From custom hair color formulas to bold makeup looks, your work becomes your art 鈥� and your clients are your canvas.

Explore what you鈥檒l learn in our Cosmetology Program and see how creative your training can be.

2. Real Skills That Travel

Beauty services are always in demand. Whether you’re in a small town or a big city, people need haircuts, facials, and nail care.

• Work in salons, spas, or on cruise ships
• Launch your own beauty business
• Build a loyal client base anywhere you go

Check out our Esthetics Program if skincare is your passion.

3. Quick Start, Fast Growth

Most cosmetology and esthetics programs take less than a year to complete. That means you can start working 鈥� and earning 鈥� way faster than a four-year degree.ok

Even better? Your career grows with you:

• Stylists become salon owners
• Estheticians become skin care educators
• Nail techs create their own product lines

Learn more about how long cosmetology school takes.

4. Flexibility and Independence

Many beauty professionals:

• Set their own hours
• Choose their ideal number of clients
• Work part-time or build full-time businesses

Some build personal brands, while others work behind the scenes on photoshoots or fashion shows. You define what success looks like..

5. You鈥檙e Making People Feel Good

There鈥檚 something powerful about helping someone feel confident in their own skin. Whether it鈥檚 a fresh haircut or a relaxing facial, you鈥檙e not just offering a service 鈥� you鈥檙e boosting someone鈥檚 self-esteem.

And when you love what you do, that energy spreads.

FAQs: Choosing a Beauty Career

Is the beauty industry stable?
Yes. Self-care services like hair, nails, and skincare remain in demand 鈥� even during economic downturns. Committed professionals usually find consistent work.

Do beauty careers pay well?
It depends on your skills, location, and how you market yourself. Many Empire graduates become high-earning stylists, estheticians, or salon owners.

What if I鈥檓 not sure which program to choose?
That鈥檚 totally normal. Start by reviewing All Our Programs, or visit a local campus for a tour. Talking with an admissions rep can help you narrow it down.

Ready to Check It Out for Yourself?

Beauty is more than a job 鈥� it鈥檚 a career built around creativity, connection, and confidence. If you鈥檙e looking for something flexible, fulfilling, and future-focused, this could be the path you鈥檝e been searching for. Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post Top 5 Reasons to Choose a Career in Beauty appeared first on 海角社区.

Looking to Fast-track Your Career?

If you鈥檙e weighing your options between beauty school and something like a four-year degree, the time commitment matters. The good news? Cosmetology school typically takes less than a year, depending on your state and schedule.

Here鈥檚 what to expect if you鈥檙e thinking about becoming a licensed cosmetologist.

How Long Is Cosmetology School?

Most states require between 1,000 and 1,600 hours of hands-on training.

• Full-time students usually finish in 9 to 12 months
• Evening or part-time students may take a bit longer, but the schedule is more flexible

Want to see how the Empire Cosmetology Program is structured? It鈥檚 designed to give you everything you need 鈥� fast.more.

What Counts Toward Those Hours?

Your required hours typically include:

• Haircutting, coloring, and styling
• Skincare, facials, and hair removal
• Nail care and basic manicuring
• Makeup application and beauty trends
• Safety, sanitation, and hygiene
• Client communication and consultation
• Business skills like scheduling and retail

It鈥檚 not just technique 鈥� it鈥檚 training for a real career.

How Soon Can You Start Working?

Once you finish the required hours and pass your state board exam, you鈥檙e eligible to become a licensed cosmetologist. At Empire, many students graduate and step right into their first salon job 鈥� some even secure offers before they finish school.

Explore all the Programs We Offer to see where your path could start.

Can You Go at Your Own Pace?

Yes. Empire offers different learning paths based on your needs:

• Daytime classes for faster completion
• Evening or part-time classes if you鈥檙e balancing work, parenting, or other priorities
• Hybrid learning options (online + in-person) available at select campuses

For more details, visit your local school鈥檚 page or Request Information.

FAQs: Cosmetology School Length

How many hours does cosmetology school require in my state?
That depends on your location. Most states require 1,000鈥�1,600 hours. Your local 海角社区 campus can give you the exact requirement.

Can I pause my program if life gets in the way?
Yes. You can speak with your School Director about taking a temporary break and coming back later. Just keep in mind it may affect your graduation timeline.

Do hybrid classes count the same as in-person hours?
Yes. Our hybrid cosmetology programs 鈥� like the one at our Manhattan campus 鈥� combine online learning with hands-on training and still count fully toward your licensure.

Ready to Check It Out for Yourself?

Cosmetology school doesn鈥檛 take four years. In most cases, you can be working in less than 12 months 鈥� doing something you love and building a career that keeps growing with you. Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post How Long Does It Take to Become a Cosmetologist? appeared first on 海角社区.

Welcome to Your First Day!

Your first day at beauty school isn鈥檛 just about showing up; it鈥檚 the start of your beauty career. Whether you鈥檙e starting in Phoenix, NYC, or anywhere in between, day one sets the tone for your entire journey.

You鈥檒l meet instructors, get familiar with your campus, and receive your student kit. But most importantly, you鈥檒l start learning the real-world skills that lead to success in this industry.

What You鈥檒l Need (And Why)

Don鈥檛 stress 鈥� Empire helps you get ready with everything you need. Just show up prepared to learn and grow.

What to bring to beauty school:

• Notebook, planner, and pens
• Closed-toe shoes (required at most campuses)
• Clean, dress code鈥揳pproved outfit
• Snacks and water for breaks
• Review our dress code

Your student kit will include everything else, including brushes, shears, mannequins, and more.

Get Mentally Ready

Cosmetology school is hands-on, fast-paced, and incredibly rewarding 鈥� but only if you鈥檙e ready to show up and grow every day.

• Remember, every hour counts toward graduation

• Be open to feedback 鈥� it’s how you improve

• Get good sleep the night before

Helpful Resources:

• Cosmetology Program

• Explore Programs

• Financial Aid Info

• 海角社区 Dress Code

Not all schools are the same. Before enrolling, make sure the program offers:

• Accreditation
• Updated curriculum
• Financial aid options
• Career support after graduation
• Real salon experience

Why Students Choose Empire

Empire campuses are located across the country, and each one is set up like a real working salon. Students don鈥檛 just learn from textbooks. They practice on real clients with instructors guiding them through each step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear on the First Day?
Most campuses require clean, professional attire and closed-toe shoes. Double-check with your student handbook or see our blog for details.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Tools?
Nope 鈥� Empire provides a full student kit. You just bring yourself, your mindset, and a few basic supplies like a notebook.

Ready to Check It Out for Yourself?

Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post How to Prepare for Your First Day at Beauty School appeared first on 海角社区.

It’s More Than Just Haircuts

Being a cosmetologist isn鈥檛 just about styling hair. It鈥檚 about helping people look and feel their best 鈥� from head to toe.

Licensed cosmetologists work with hair, nails, and skin, offering services that boost confidence and transform lives. They鈥檙e trained professionals 鈥� and always in demand.

What Cosmetologists Actually Do

• Cut, color, and style hair

• Perform facials, waxing, and skincare treatments

• Provide nail care and polish designs

• Offer consultations and build client relationships

Where They Work

The beauty industry is huge 鈥� and full of options:

• Salons and barbershops
• Spas and wellness centers
• Cruise ships and resorts
• Film, fashion, and media productions

Career Paths After School

You can become:

• A salon stylist or manager
• A makeup artist for weddings, TV, or film
• A beauty educator or trainer
• A content creator or product rep
• An entrepreneur with your own business

Not all schools are the same. Before enrolling, make sure the program offers:

• Accreditation
• Updated curriculum
• Financial aid options
• Career support after graduation
• Real salon experience

Why Students Choose Empire

Empire campuses are located across the country, and each one is set up like a real working salon. Students don鈥檛 just learn from textbooks. They practice on real clients with instructors guiding them through each step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cosmetology a good career?
Yes 鈥� especially if you enjoy creativity, hands-on work, and helping others. The demand for skilled beauty professionals remains strong.

Where can I work after graduating?
Anywhere beauty lives. Salons, spas, TV sets, bridal suites, fashion shows 鈥� even your own salon or studio.

Ready to Check It Out for Yourself?

Schedule a tour and see what cosmetology school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post What Does a Cosmetologist Actually Do? appeared first on 海角社区.

We are thrilled to share that our incredible educator, Michelle McGrath, has officially been named the Educator of the Year, selected from over 70 locations nationwide! This recognition is more than just a title; it is a reflection of her deep commitment to education, her students, her colleagues, and the beauty industry as a whole. 

Michelle, affectionately known as Ms. Shelly, by her students, has been an educator at our Green Bay, WI location since 2022. The Educator of the Year was selected from all Educator of the Quarter recipients for the 2024鈥�2025 fiscal year, based on nomination forms, class attendance, academic performance, and the number of student drops.

Kyle Schoeneman, President and Chief Operating Officer, of 海角社区 shares:

鈥淢s. Shelly is an inspiration to all of us! Thank you for everything you do for our students who are fortunate to have you as a mentor! It was an honor to visit the wonderful Green Bay school and personally present her with this well-deserved award.鈥�

Ms. Shelly graciously reflects on the honor and significance of receiving the Educator of the Year award.

鈥淚 am happy to be a part of what Empire is about. Being Educator of the Year is amazing and it stands out among all my achievements. I鈥檝e won trips and other company-wide achievements, but being Educator of the Year is the best feeling ever. Knowing that I鈥檝e given back and that it鈥檚 appreciated by the company and the lives I鈥檝e touched means a lot. I鈥檓 all about continuing to grow and inspire. I want to continuously make our campus a better place to be,鈥� shares Ms. Shelly. 

For Ms. Shelly, the final push to enroll in beauty school came from her daughter, who encouraged her to pursue a dream she had always held.

鈥淲hen my daughter was about to graduate high school, she reminded me that being an educator was always a goal of mine. She told me it was my turn to go to school and we can have a graduation party together. My daughter also does hair, she went to beauty school right after high school,鈥� mentions Ms. Shelly. 

For Ms. Shelly, completing our educator program gave her the chance to learn the Empire way up close and truly embrace our community. 

鈥淲hat drew me to work here was that I did the educator program here. I did my educator program with Miss Kay, she is a huge mentor of mine. I knew their core values and the staff I did the program with. Being a part of the family-type community means a lot. We all work together and support each other. We all listen to each other. I have worked at other beauty schools but what sets us apart is that we have the drive to be the best of the best. The core values that align with that make Empire a great place to work for,鈥� said Ms. Shelly. 

What motivates Ms. Shelly on challenging days? It鈥檚 seeing students have that 鈥渁h-ha鈥� moment when everything finally clicks.

鈥淓ven on days where it鈥檚 hard, there is still a student that will tell you 鈥榳hatever you said to me really clicked today.鈥� It鈥檚 getting students to that ah-ha moment that makes it valuable to be an educator. This is what inspires us to keep going.,鈥� mentions Ms. Shelly. 

To our students, she shares her advice, encouraging them to be patient with their own growth. 

鈥淕ive yourself grace. Everyone has to start somewhere. Practice does not make perfect. If you think you are going to be perfect, you are going to set yourself up for failure. Practice makes it better,鈥� shares Ms. Shelly. 

Please join us in congratulating Ms. Shelly on this well-earned and inspiring achievement!

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post Educator of the Year: Michelle McGrath appeared first on 海角社区.

Congratulations to Kasandra Olivera-Carlotta, a student at in Tucson, AZ, who has been awarded the AACS & L鈥橭r茅al Student Stylist of the Year 鈥� Best in Color! Kasandra was selected as one of only twelve finalists nationwide and traveled to the CEA Conference in Orlando to receive her award.

Tired of working a job she had no passion for, Kasandra decided it was time to chase her dreams. From collecting fashion magazines as a child to pursuing a hands-on education at 海角社区, her path became clear: she was meant to be in the beauty industry.

With a natural competitive streak and a passion for creativity, Kasandra seized the opportunity to enter the national competition.

鈥淚 have always been a competitive person; I like to strive for more. My educator came to us one day about this contest, and I knew I had to do it. It took me three weeks to complete my look. I love the look of big, voluminous curls. I knew others would go for an Avant-garde look, so I decided to create a look that a regular, everyday person would ask for. Something very natural. This is a look that someone could ask for and want in the normal day-to-day. At the end of June, I received an email that stated I was one of twelve finalists for this contest. I was so surprised, it was a great feeling. I felt like my hard work meant something. I was so proud of myself,鈥� shares Kasandra. 

As a finalist, Kasandra experienced a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Orlando, where she met with the other finalists for the awards ceremony. 

鈥淚t was absolutely surreal. I am very thankful for this opportunity. I was able to bring a friend with me, we stayed in Orlando and went to Disneyworld. It was such an unforgettable experience. I was able to meet other finalists and educators. They called the finalists on stage, and I was so excited. He announced my name as the winner, and it felt like everything happened so fast. I was shocked; it was surreal. I will always remember this,鈥� shares Kasandra. 

Lesha Neal, Executive Director at 海角社区 in Tucson, AZ, acknowledges Kasandra鈥檚 dedication and passion:

鈥淜asandra is an amazing young lady! She shows her passion and creativity in all that she does. She strives for satisfaction from her clients to give them the desired looks they request. Kasandra has a true gift and shares her love for the beauty industry with her fellow classmates, educators, clients and all around her. She is an excellent student nearing graduation and has put her all into everything she has learned. I am not surprised that she did so well for this contest, she worked hard and put her heart into this piece of work. I am so proud of her for this big win and we here in Tucson look forward to continuing watching Kasandra grow in this beautiful industry of Cosmetology.鈥�

Reflecting on her time at 海角社区, Kasandra highlights the hands-on learning environment that helped her feel confident and career-ready.

鈥淚 did not expect so much hands-on practice that we do at Empire. I chose Empire because on my tour I saw how everyone was working on something. There was music playing and people talking while being creative. I said this is where I want to go. As a student, there are always fun competitions and opportunities to work with people. My educators care about my future career and my education. I feel like I was able to learn so much from my educators. I genuinely feel ready to take on this career. Through Empire, it truly gets us ready to go out there.鈥�

Along with the hands-on training, Kasandra expresses how the educators supported her throughout her journey. 

鈥淚 want to give a shoutout to my educator, Annette Andree. She gave me the confidence for this competition, telling me to go for it. It was my creativity, but she kept telling me I could do it. I feel like she has always been there for me, telling me to do my best and believing in me.鈥�

After this experience, Kasandra grew confident in her craft and places no limit on her goals. 

鈥淚 have always been a hard worker and believed that anything could be achieved through persistence and hard work. This experience showed me that I can be confident in my craft, and I can strive for more. It makes me feel optimistic about my future career. I feel like there is no limit to what you can achieve,鈥� notes Kasandra. 

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, follow Kasandra鈥檚 advice.

鈥淵ou can learn and take what you want from beauty school as much as you want. You can create and shape this career as you want to. All you have to do is try and go for it. Do things that make you uncomfortable. When you are confused and uncomfortable, that means you are learning and growing. Put yourself out there, especially by keeping up with social media. Keep trying your best. Do things that scare you. You won鈥檛 succeed at everything; you鈥檙e there to learn. Don鈥檛 be afraid to mess up and try again. Comfort is the enemy of success,鈥� expresses Kasandra.聽

Kasandra, congratulations on this tremendous achievement! We are so proud of you for exploring your passion and pushing past your comfort zone. We are excited to see what your future holds. 

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post Empire Tucson Student Earns National Recognition appeared first on 海角社区.

Why Beauty School Still Matters in Today鈥檚 World

Let鈥檚 be real. College isn鈥檛 for everyone, and not every career path needs four years and a mountain of debt. Beauty school programs give you a direct path into a hands-on career that鈥檚 always in demand. People will always need haircuts, skincare, and makeup, no matter how much tech evolves.

What You鈥檒l Learn (And Why It Matters)

Modern beauty programs don鈥檛 just teach you how to cut hair or wax brows. You鈥檒l learn:

• Hands-on techniques for hair, skincare, and nails
• Client communication and consultation skills
• Sanitation and safety protocols
• Business basics like retail, booking, and building your own brand

This isn鈥檛 just training. It鈥檚 real-world prep for a career that starts the day you graduate.

Cost vs. Payoff: Is It a Good Investment?

On average, beauty school costs less than half of a four-year college degree. Most programs take under a year to finish. You can start working right after you鈥檙e licensed. Many grads go on to earn a solid income as stylists, estheticians, or even salon owners. You鈥檒l also have the freedom to build your own schedule and grow your career on your terms.

What to Look for in a Cosmetology Program

Not all schools are the same. Before enrolling, make sure the program offers:

• Accreditation
• Updated curriculum
• Financial aid options
• Career support after graduation
• Real salon experience

Why Students Choose Empire

Empire campuses are located across the country, and each one is set up like a real working salon. Students don鈥檛 just learn from textbooks. They practice on real clients with instructors guiding them through each step.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Beauty School Take to Finish?
Most programs take between 9 and 12 months, depending on the schedule you choose. Some campuses offer part-time or evening classes to fit your lifestyle.

Can I Get Financial Aid for Beauty School?
Yes. Many accredited beauty schools offer federal financial aid (FAFSA), grants, and even scholarships. Empire鈥檚 admissions team can walk you through the options.

What Kinds of Jobs Can I Get After Graduating?
You could become a hairstylist, esthetician, makeup artist, nail tech, salon manager, or even start your own business. Some grads also work in film, fashion, or skincare clinics.

Ready to Check It Out for Yourself?

Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post Is Beauty School Worth it in 2025? appeared first on 海角社区.

Understanding the Difference

If you’re thinking about a career in beauty but not sure whether to become an esthetician or a cosmetologist, you’re not alone. These two roles are often confused, but they focus on different specialties. Knowing the difference can help you pick the path that actually fits what you love to do.

If you’re still exploring career paths, you might also want to check out ‘Is Beauty School Worth It in 2025?’ 鈥� it covers the broader value of beauty education today.

What Does a Cosmetologist Do?

Cosmetologists are trained to work with hair, skin, and nails. Their training covers:

• Hair cutting, coloring, and styling
• Basic skincare and makeup application
• Manicures and pedicures
• Salon safety and sanitation

It鈥檚 a more broad-based program, which opens up different career paths 鈥� from salon work to owning your own business.

Explore the full cosmetology program.

What Does an Esthetician Do?

Estheticians focus more deeply on skincare. Their training typically includes:

• Facials and skin treatments
• Hair removal (like waxing or sugaring)
• Advanced skincare machines and techniques
• Skin analysis and treatment planning

If you’re passionate about skincare and want to help people feel confident in their own skin, this route might be a better fit.

See how esthetics training works!

Career Paths: What Can You Do With Each License?

Cosmetology License:

• Hairstylist
• Nail technician
• Makeup artist
• Salon manager or owner

Esthetics License:

• Skincare specialist
• Facialist or spa esthetician
• Waxing technician
• Medical esthetician (with additional training)

Compare career options by program.

How to Decide Which Is Right for You

Think about what excites you most. Do you love doing hair and helping clients completely transform their look? Cosmetology might be the way to go. Do you find skincare satisfying and want to work one-on-one to improve someone鈥檚 skin health? Esthetics might be a better match.

You can also talk to instructors, tour campuses, or even sit in on a class. Sometimes seeing it up close helps make the choice feel clearer.

Book a campus tour to explore both programs.

If you want a more in-depth comparison, check out our blog on ‘Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: Which Path Is Right for You?’

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Study Both Esthetics and Cosmetology?

Yes. Some students start with one license and go back later to earn the other. It depends on your career goals and how much time you’re willing to commit.

Which Program Is Shorter?

Esthetics programs are usually shorter than cosmetology programs. On average, esthetics takes around 600 hours, while cosmetology takes closer to 1,000鈥�1,500 hours depending on state requirements.

Do Both Licenses Require State Exams?

Yes. No matter which path you choose, you鈥檒l need to pass your state board exam to get licensed and start working legally.

Still Deciding?

Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

Join a community, enroll at where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click!

The post Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: Which Path Is Right for You? appeared first on 海角社区.

Price Matters, But Value Matters More

When you’re looking for a cosmetology school, the first question is usually, 鈥淗ow much does it cost?鈥� And that鈥檚 fair. But price alone doesn鈥檛 tell the whole story. The real question is whether the program gives you the training, support, and career prep to actually start working after graduation.

Take the first step; schedule a tour!

What Makes a Cosmetology School Affordable?

It鈥檚 not just about low tuition. A truly affordable school offers:

• Financial aid (federal FAFSA, grants, and scholarships)
• Flexible payment plans
• Shorter program lengths so you can graduate and start earning sooner
• Support after graduation so you don鈥檛 waste time figuring things out alone

If a school looks cheap upfront but doesn鈥檛 offer those things, it might cost you more in the long run.ogram, which opens up different career paths 鈥� from salon work to owning your own business.

Questions to Ask on a Campus Tour

Before you enroll, ask:

• How long does the program take to complete?
• What鈥檚 included in the tuition? (Books, kits, testing fees?)
• What financial aid options are available?
• How many graduates find work in the field?
• Can I attend part-time or evenings if I work during the day?

You鈥檙e not just shopping for a class. You鈥檙e choosing your future career path.

See how to apply: Admissions at Empire.

How Empire Helps Students Afford Their Education

海角社区 offers financial aid to those who qualify, along with flexible schedules and job placement assistance. You鈥檒l train in real salon settings with experienced instructors and graduate with the confidence to walk into your first job already knowing what to do.

With campuses across the U.S., there鈥檚 probably one near you!

How to Decide Which Is Right for You

Think about what excites you most. Do you love doing hair and helping clients completely transform their look? Cosmetology might be the way to go. Do you find skincare satisfying and want to work one-on-one to improve someone鈥檚 skin health? Esthetics might be a better match.

Compare programs side by side: Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist

You can also talk to instructors, tour campuses, or even sit in on a class. Sometimes seeing it up close helps make the choice feel clearer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does Cosmetology School Usually Cost?

It depends on the state and the school, but most programs fall between $10,000 and $20,000 total. Empire鈥檚 admissions team can give you the exact cost for your local campus.

Can I Apply for FAFSA at Beauty School?

Yes. Empire is an accredited institution, so if you qualify for federal financial aid, you can use it toward your cosmetology education.

Is There a Way to Visit Before Enrolling?

Definitely. In fact, visiting a campus is one of the best ways to see if the program feels like a good fit. You can check out the salon floor, meet instructors, and get all your questions answered.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Book your visit today and see what beauty school is really like!

Join a community, enroll at 海角社区 where your dreams become reality.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please click.

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After more than four decades of inspiring students and shaping futures, Debra Moyer is retiring from . Her incredible journey began as a student and evolved into a legendary career as an educator. Here鈥檚 a look back at her remarkable time with Empire.

Debra Moyer dedicated a total of 42 years to 海角社区, spending 12 years at the Lebanon, PA campus and 30 years at the Harrisburg, PA location. She began as an evening student in Lebanon, PA. As a senior student, she had the opportunity to participate in a co-op program. During that time, her educator became both her inspiration and mentor.

Watch her story !

Mary Nickle, 海角社区 Harrisburg, PA Assistant Director, shares: 

鈥淒eb will forever be the cornerstone of the Harrisburg campus. Because of her passion and love for the students and staff she will be missed but NEVER forgotten, she has left a part of her with us all.鈥�

Inside the school, Debra is often known as 鈥�The Legend,鈥� and with a career as impressive as hers, it鈥檚 easy to see why.

鈥淭here wasn鈥檛 any curriculum that I did not teach. I was part of a group of educators that created a curriculum, it was a lot of fun. I was a trainer for new educators, I was so thankful that they asked me to do that. I did so much for this company and touched a lot of lives,鈥� shares Debra. 

When speaking with Debra, it鈥檚 clear just how deeply she cares for her students. She builds genuine connections, mentors with heart, and inspires them to chase their dreams.

鈥淓very student that sat in my classroom, I gave 110% and taught from my heart. I talked about what working in the industry would be like. I will always be here for every one of my students. When I see my students graduate, they come up to me and we cry. I tell my students that the sky is the limit, but you have to start at the bottom and climb to the top,鈥� mentions Debra. 

One of her signature phrases is 鈥淐omb, comb, comb,鈥� a gentle reminder for students to stay neat and focused. And when the classroom gets too chatty, she brings attention back with a playful, 鈥淚f you can hear me, clap twice,鈥� creating a fun yet effective way to regain control.

Debra praises the strong, family-like bonds she built with her coworkers over the years. Through every challenge and triumph, they supported one another.

鈥淚 accomplished a lot in these 42 years. I love my coworkers, we help each other out with anything. We have been through the ringer together at the school but also a shoulder to lean on. Empire will always be a part of my life. I鈥檓 going to miss my coworkers tremendously, they鈥檙e my family,鈥� shares Debra. 

The moments that bring it all full circle, like watching her students pass their state boards and land their first jobs, are what continually remind her why she chose this path in the first place.

Debra reflects on the dedication and resilience it takes to be an educator, emphasizing the daily patience, passion, and preparation the role demands.

鈥淓ducators have a tough job. You have to have patience every single day. Your passion has to continue every single day. I try to pass on all of the knowledge I have. In my first two years of teaching, I would go home every single night and look over my notes until midnight. I needed to be prepared for the next day,鈥� says Debra. 

As Debra steps into her next chapter, she鈥檚 looking forward to a well-earned retirement filled with relaxation, family time, and new ventures. 

鈥淢y first week in retirement is all about me. I am going to go to the pool, read a book, and have an adult beverage. I plan to start my own business. For the last 15 years, I have been helping students with passing their state boards. I am so happy that I can impact students. In the first two weeks, I can tell if a student is dedicated. I have two children and four grandchildren. I plan to spend more time with them. It has been a long journey, but I am ready for my next chapter,鈥� mentions Debra. 

On Debra鈥檚 final day with us, the Empire Team came together to celebrate her incredible legacy with a surprise party. The event brought together her family, former students, and many others whose lives have been touched by her kindness, mentorship, and dedication. One of the most heartfelt moments of the day was a special tribute video, filled with messages from those who shared just how much Debra has meant to them over the years. It was a powerful reminder of the lasting impact she鈥檚 made on so many.

Debra, thank you for your decades of dedication to our students. Your passion, wisdom, and care have left a lasting impact on every life you touched. We wish you all the best in this exciting new chapter.

The post 42 Years of Impact: Debra Moyer Retires appeared first on 海角社区.

The battle for Steel City glory has been won and the talent was next level! students from our North Hills, Monroeville, and West Mifflin campuses came together for an exciting regional competition, showcasing their creativity, technique, and passion for the beauty industry.

The event featured three competition categories: Avant Garde- Total Fantasy Look, Trend Cut & Color, Nail Artistry- Nails in a Box. 

Each student impressed both judges and spectators with their artistry and professionalism. The future of beauty is in great hands!

Watch The Video

And the winners are鈥�

Avant Garde – Total Fantasy Look

• First Place: Nico & Maria 鈥� North Hills 
• Second Place: Lydia & Luca 鈥� Monroeville
• Third Place: Ray & Danazja 鈥� West Mifflin

Trend Cut & Color

• First Place: Taylor 鈥� Monroeville 
• Second Place: Carly 鈥� Monroeville
• Third Place: Richelle 鈥� North Hills

Nail Artistry – Nails in a Box

• First Place: Raven 鈥� North Hills 
• Second Place: Fallon 鈥� Monroeville
• Third Place: Serenity 鈥� North Hills

How it all came together

Our in-house competitions began in March at each individual campus, where students competed for a chance to represent their school at the next level. In April, the North Hills campus hosted the final showdown, inviting the top two winners from each category across all three locations to battle it out for the regional title. 

The final results were based on cumulative scores and we鈥檙e thrilled to announce that Team North Hills claimed the Steel City Trophy for best overall performance!

The event would not have been possible without the generous support of our local community who donated prizes for our winners and judged the competition. The competition brought together students, educators, family members, and beauty professionals to celebrate the next generation of stylists. 

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit

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