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!

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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!

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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!

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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.听

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!

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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.

The post Affordable Cosmetology Schools Near Me 鈥� What to Look for Before Enrolling appeared first on 海角社区.

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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Monica McGarry, a cosmetology graduate from Tucson, AZ, has been named one of six national winners of the 2025 Sports Clips Battle of the Hair Contest. As part of her victory, McGarry received an all-expenses-paid trip to San Antonio, TX to attend the Sport Clips National Huddle in May 2025. 

McGarry鈥檚 journey into cosmetology was a calling years in the making. From experimenting with hair and makeup for her sister’s wedding to making the bold decision to enroll in beauty school, she followed her passion with determination. 

One unforgettable day at school, she received the surprise of a lifetime while doing what she loved most- working on a client. 

鈥淚 was coloring my client鈥檚 hair when I heard people looking for me. Miss Tracy comes over to me asking how my client was doing. I turned around and there they were with flowers and balloons telling me I won the Sports Clips Battle of the Hair competition. I was so excited. We took a bunch of pictures and they told me I was going to San Antonio, Texas. It was the best day,鈥� said McGarry.

McGarry was allowed to bring an educator with her to the event. She chose Renee Bowen, an educator at Empire Tucson, AZ. 

鈥淚 chose my educator Renee because we immediately connected. I felt like every time I needed help, she really helped me. She鈥檚 so patient, kind, and she keeps it real. She pushes us to be better. That was helpful for me because she didn鈥檛 baby us. I feel like she is a very good person, and I needed someone I felt comfortable with. If I felt stressed, I could go to her.鈥�

Bowen expressed how proud she was to be part of the experience, saying: 

鈥淚鈥檝e had the pleasure of being Monica鈥檚 educator, as well as accompanying her on the trip of a lifetime鈥攊n the twenty years I鈥檝e been a cosmetologist, I鈥檝e yet to have such an adventure! Our trip was a great balance of fun, as well as educational. It still feels surreal I got to attend, as it was truly Monica鈥檚 hard work and dedication to her craft that got us there. If you ask her, she will more than likely have a demure response inferring that without her educator鈥檚 instruction, she wouldn鈥檛 have had the confidence; but that is Monica in a nutshell. A multifaceted young woman who is as genuine and humble as she is talented. And she is, in fact, very talented.鈥�

In a full-circle moment, McGarry is now working with Sports Clips. 

鈥淚 applied to Sports Clips and told them about the contest. The regional manager was excited and said she was looking for me at the Huddle event. They were so welcoming and they have ongoing education programs. They were open to me being there and working right away. They let me come in to shadow people doing haircuts. They even let me go to different locations to watch people do different haircuts and pick their brains,鈥� said McGarry. 

McGarry made a lasting impression during her time at 海角社区- not just for her creativity and talent, but for her leadership and compassion. 

鈥淢onica has the biggest heart of gold, as a class president, she was the light in the lives of quite a few students鈥攂oth celebrating and making fun moments for her peers, to helping fundraise for some of their personal tragedies. She excelled in all her modules, and left herself open to the creative process, which left her often even surprising herself with what she could do. Monica is our first Battle of the Hair winner Empire has produced, and I was more than honored to accompany her and share a part of her journey. I鈥檓 more than certain, though this is the first of her achievements, this certainly won鈥檛 be the last for this talented young lady. She is an inspiration to her peers, very much including myself, as well. I couldn鈥檛 be any more proud of her for representing our school,鈥� said Renee Bowen, 海角社区 educator. 

At 海角社区, we鈥檙e here to support you through every high and low- celebrating your wins and standing by you through the challenges. For McGarry, that support came in the form of a tight-knit group of students. 

鈥淚 made best friends in beauty school. It was something I was open to but not looking for directly. Right away, I felt like I clicked with a group of people. It was amazing. There is nothing like being supported by a group of women. It鈥檚 so inspiring to see them achieve their dreams. We give each other advice from our own perspectives in Cosmetology but also in life,鈥� shared McGarry. 听

Though she completed her cosmetology program, her schooling does not end there. McGarry is fortunate to have several passions that she plans to make careers out of. 

鈥淚 used to go to school for special elementary education, which is near and dear to my heart. I love teaching and being a safe place for people. My plan is to finish school 5-10 years from now. I want to be a Cosmetologist as a side job. Both of these careers are something I鈥檝e always talked about and I鈥檓 very passionate about them,鈥� said McGarry. 

Your time as a beauty school student is a transformative one. We love seeing the growth in each of our students. McGarry discusses how she evolved during her schooling. 

鈥淚 used to be a very closed-off person. Throughout beauty school, I learned to be much more open and get out of my comfort zone. I feel like networking has been super hard for me, but once I got the groove of it I thought it was nice. I鈥檝e learned to be more open and to let people in my life. I learned to not let anxiety ruin my life. Anxiety has ruined my life before and now it鈥檚 not. I am super thankful for my educators at Empire and Lesha, the Executive Director. They have been so great to me during my time there. I鈥檓 grateful for the friends I made. I am grateful my husband made it as much of a goal of his as it was mine,鈥� said McGarry. 

For those hesitant about putting yourself and your work out there, McGarry shares her advice.

鈥�You are the person who is holding you back. If someone is holding you back, they do not need to be in your life. You have one life, live it how you want to. The what-ifs are scary, you have to talk yourself down. You have to do the things you are unsure about. You don鈥檛 know if you will like something until you do it. Try it, stick it out, give it a good chance. If you鈥檙e scared, make the jump, do it, and tell someone you can trust so they can push you. There is no harm in trying,鈥� said McGarry. 

Monica, congratulations on this tremendous accomplishment. You are an inspiration to those following in your footsteps. We are so proud of you!

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit https://bit.ly/LearnMoreAtEmpire

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We are proud to celebrate Makayla Smith, a May 2025 graduate of the Cosmetology program at in Jackson, TN. Throughout her time at Empire, Makayla showed dedication, passion, and determination as she worked toward her goals. Her commitment to completing the program and building a future in the beauty industry is an inspiring example of perseverance.

Originally from South Carolina, Makayla chose to pursue her beauty education at 海角社区 in Jackson, TN. While her journey included challenges that interrupted her time as a student, she remained focused and determined to finish what she started. Makayla describes her experience as motivational, eye-opening, and a long time coming, and she is proud to be a graduate of 海角社区.

Smith discovered her love for hair at an early age and surrounded herself with friends who shared her passion for beauty.

鈥淎t a very young age, I realized I had a passion for hair. I used to always do my hair for school. I would change my hairstyle weekly. As I got older, I wanted to further pursue that passion by practicing with my friends. They told me I should go to beauty school, and it went from there. It鈥檚 helpful to have friends in the same field as you. If I have questions, I can always talk to them and they will help me out,鈥� said Smith.  

Clarissa Byars, Executive Director of 海角社区 Jackson, shares:

鈥淚t has been a great honor to have Makayla Smith as a student. She has proven that through perseverance and hard work, 鈥�the sky’s the limit鈥�. Although she had some bumps in the road along the way, she never stopped. She has shown her classmates what hard work and determination can do for you. She exemplifies what a true professional Cosmetologist should look like. I am so excited to see what鈥檚 ahead for her and her future.鈥�

At 海角社区, we strive to create a supportive learning environment that welcomes students from all backgrounds and experiences. For Smith, the Empire community had a powerful and positive impact.

鈥淚 love everything about 海角社区. Before I went there, my mental health wasn鈥檛 in the best place. Now that I completed the course, I feel like I鈥檓 in a whole new headspace. I look at things in a more positive light and I feel more excited. It has been so helpful for me. The educators are very helpful and focused on your mental health. They definitely care about you. When I got to the enrichment class, I had an educator who told us how we can really make something special with this career. She opened my eyes and I looked at things from a different perspective,鈥� said Smith.  

During her journey, Smith鈥檚 family decided to relocate back to South Carolina. However, their plans were disrupted when Hurricane Helene devastated the Carolinas, creating unexpected challenges.

鈥淲hen I-40 was collapsing, I was on the road. The chaos was really bad, it scared me. It felt like doomsday. It made me more determined to finish out my goal. I took the time to reevaluate myself. I came back 10 times stronger,鈥� said Smith.  

When asked about considering other schools, Smith shared that she felt the strongest support at 海角社区.

鈥淲hen I went back to South Carolina to inquire about other schools, it was nothing like Empire. I was talking to the staff about my experience and time in school, they weren鈥檛 ready to work with me. It was nothing like being at Empire. At Empire, I felt wanted. Jackson was the better fit for me,鈥� shared Smith. 听

Though her journey had some obstacles, Smith stayed focused on graduating and becoming a licensed Cosmetologist. 

鈥淭his means the world to me. I have been pushing off doing this for a while. My heart is definitely in this, I wanted to do it for so long. It feels like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I am ready to elevate and get to the next level. I am excited to see what is in store for me next. I feel very happy. I was emotional graduating, but I was happy. This was a huge goal I set for myself. I鈥檓 not stopping here,鈥� said Smith. 听

Looking ahead, Smith is determined to grow, elevate her skills, and make her mark in the beauty industry through continuous learning.

鈥淚 hope to work with a salon, with a good mentor to show me the ins and outs of managing a salon. My long-term goal is to be a salon owner. It鈥檒l take time and patience but I will get there. I plan to dominate the beauty industry. I hope to become one of the best stylists there is. I hope I can take this, and elevate, grow, and learn. I like to make people feel beautiful. I love seeing the reaction you get when you spin them around in the chair and they can see the transformation. Their faces light up and they get so happy by changing their hair,鈥� said Smith.  

Smith offers valuable advice for balancing school, work, and personal life while pursuing a career in cosmetology.

鈥�Stay grounded. There鈥檚 a reason why you started. If you feel in doubt or lost, go back to the reason why you started. That鈥檚 what I had to do. Staying consistent is the main thing. There is always light at the end of the tunnel. If your heart’s in it, it鈥檚 meant for you,鈥� said Smith. 听

Makayla鈥檚 story is a powerful reminder that determination and passion can overcome any obstacle. We are excited to see her continue to grow and succeed in the beauty industry.

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

The post Spotlight on Success: Makayla Smith, Jackson Graduate appeared first on 海角社区.

Calpurnia Reed, an educator with 29 years of service at in Manhattan, New York, is retiring after a remarkable career dedicated to shaping students鈥� lives. In 2024, Reed was honored with the Educator of the Quarter award at 海角社区. This recognition is given quarterly to the top educators in each region, celebrating their hard work and commitment to excellence.

Warren Payton, Executive Director at 海角社区 in Manhattan, NY, shares his excitement for Reed:

鈥淢s. Calpurnia Reed has been an amazing educator at the Manhattan Campus since 1995. Her expertise and educational intelligence is unmatched. She has often ranked number one in any educator evaluations done here in Manhattan. She is passionate when it comes to her students receiving top-quality education. Her customer dedication is top-tier. She will stop at nothing to ensure that her classroom is warm and inviting and always conducive to learning. Her students look forward to coming to school every day and they will get upset if she takes a PTO day. Ms. Reed doesn鈥檛 just care about the student who is in front of her but also the student who is not present. She will take the time to reach out to those students to ensure them that they are missed and are not taking advantage of a great opportunity to become a licensed professional. Ms. Reed is an impeccable dresser and she always looks professional and is a great role model for her students. Ms. Reed underwent a major health challenge that caused her to be out of work for several months and when she returned, it was full speed ahead; as if she were never gone. Ms. Reed was a proud recipient of Educator of the Quarter which she was very excited to receive. She will be missed beyond measure, the impact that she has made at Empire will never be forgotten. I wish her well in all of her future endeavors.鈥�

Reed expresses her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making her remarkable career possible.

鈥淚 appreciate the opportunity to work here and be here for so long. It was a learning experience, and what I learned here, I plan to take with me. I will never forget the 29 years I spent in this building. Empire is a great company to work for. I will miss my coworkers, we have a great relationship. In the mornings we discuss what we are doing for that day, if we have a problem we go to each other, even if we just need to vent. I will miss them the most. I will miss the students too, of course. I learn from the students just as much as they learn from me,鈥� she shares.

Robert Curcio, Regional Senior Director at 海角社区, notes just how irreplaceable and special Reed is.

鈥淢s. Reed came to Empire by storm and demonstrated the highest levels of commitment to both the Empire Family and her students. Ms. Reed was a leader of leaders, being referenced by others as the Godmother of education. She was a go-to educator who truly understood the execution of the curriculum, having played a part in the analytics of curriculum development in the past while also supporting the state in testing thousands of students over her tenure with Empire. She always moved with such poise and never appeared rattled by always maintaining classroom control ensuring students met expectations and were successful. She flourished in setting the foundation for students having been a part of the pre-salon modules for Empire during the majority of her time and then transitioned into proctor mode at night. Unreplaceable is probably the best word to use when describing her. Overall, Ms. Reed has a huge, kind heart and demonstrates to love working with her surrounding team members and school leadership while always having a positive outlook on things and life.鈥�

Her inspiration to enter the beauty industry came from her older sister, who shared a similar passion.

鈥淎s a young girl, I always wanted to be a teacher but I wasn鈥檛 sure in what aspect. My sister then started in the beauty industry, so I followed behind her. Growing up, we always did each other’s hair,鈥� Reed shares.

For Reed, the most memorable part is being with her coworkers and students. She finds it meaningful to watch them grow from day one and appreciates when her students return after graduating to share their experiences.

鈥淢y coworkers and management are amazing. Student-wise, I enjoy them. I love seeing where our students begin. When they first start, they come in not knowing much. Then you see a 360-degree turn which is exciting. I love watching them understand what I鈥檓 teaching them. I enjoy when our students graduate and come back to tell us they are now licensed, speak about their work experience, and talk about their success. About every 3 weeks, we get to meet new students. You always remember them. It Is memorable to see a former student come back as either an educator or an administrator. You don鈥檛 forget moments like that,鈥� she says.

Reed offers valuable advice for those considering a career in the beauty industry.

鈥淵ou have to be humble in this industry. People are not going to hand you anything. They will teach you and you have to be teachable. You must be willing to learn, be professional at all times, and be patient. You are always on stage. Nobody knows it all. If you are teachable, you will be successful. If you think you know everything, then that is a problem because no one can teach you anything. This industry is always evolving. You have to go with the flow,鈥� Reed shares.

As Reed prepares for retirement, she is excited to start the next chapter of her life down in South Carolina.

鈥淢y biggest and most exciting plan is building a house in South Carolina. I am excited to decorate my new home and build my life back down in Carolina. My home is my main priority right now.鈥�

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Calpurnia Reed for her years of dedication and service. Her impact on the 海角社区 community will be felt for years to come. We wish her all the best in this exciting next chapter.

The post Calpurnia Reed Retires After 29 Years at 海角社区 Manhattan appeared first on 海角社区.