“What are your plans after high school graduation?” This is a question that many high schoolers are frequently asked. It is a hard question to answer because there are so many options. One great option would be to attend Southwest Tech in Fennimore, Wisconsin, and to take the cosmetology program. Recently, I interviewed my cousin Jasmine Reuter, who is in the cosmetology program, to get an inside look at what the program is like.
The first thing I asked Jaz was how she became interested in the program. She said, “I’ve always liked doing hair and nails, so I decided that I wanted to pursue this career after graduating high school to further my knowledge about hair, nails, etc.”
She went on to say that she enjoys her classes and there are many interesting ones. “One of the classes I take is Basic Hair, which is just basic hair cuts and thermal styling, like curling and straightening. Another class I take is Hair Coloring And Techniques. We learn hair coloring, how to bleach properly, and other techniques to get a better result when coloring hair.”
Jaz said that she is enjoying the program so far. “I like that we learn more than just hair and nails. For example, we are learning how to do makeup, facials, waxing and so much more,” said Jaz. However, she did say there were some difficult things about her classes. “I think the online classes we must take are the most difficult part. I'm more of a hands-on learner, so it’s hard for me to turn in assignments I wasn't taught about and we just have to learn from a book. I learn better when things are verbally said to me so I gain what is being said.”
Jaz is doing well in the cosmetology program and wants others to go there as well. Jaz said, “I’d recommend [the] Hair Coloring And Techniques [class] to everyone because the teacher is amazing. I've gained so much useful knowledge from her.” One of Jaz’s least favorite classes has been Basic Hair. Jaz explained that the course takes three semesters, which is a year and a half of schooling.
Jaz truly believes the program will help prepare her for future jobs. “It gives me enough knowledge to pass the state boards and get me my certificate to legally work in a salon,” stated Jaz. She is very happy with her choice of going to Southwest Tech and said, “SWTC is a great college. The campus to me is like the perfect size; I don't really like big schools, so I think SWTC was the right choice for me.”
In the future Jaz hopes to have her own cosmetology place one day to make her own money and do hair and nails.