Cosmetologists

Talk to friends or parents of friends who are working in the industry, or just go to a local salon or cosmetology school and ask questions about the profession. Go to the library and get books on careers in the beauty/hair care industry. Search the Internet for related Web sites. Individuals with an interest in the field might seek after-school or summer employment as a general shop helper in a barbershop or a salon. Some schools may permit potential students to visit and observe classes.

Try your hand at cosmetology. Experiment by styling—or even cutting—the hair of your friends. Check out tutorials online at YouTube.com and on beauty websites.

Participate in competitions that gauge your knowledge of hairstyling techniques. The following organizations offer competitions: SkillsUSA (https://www.skillsusa.org) and Skills Compétences Canada (https://www.skillscompetencescanada.com).

Check out https://beautychangeslives.org for information on cosmetology careers and scholarships.