3 minute read
A Cut Above the Rest
COSMETOLOGY PROGRAM
By Hayli Zuccola Holly Frazier Photography
Even in its simplest form, cosmetology at its core is an in-demand eld lled with creativity, artistry and in nite possibilities. From trending techniques in ombré blending, balayage and the use of vibrant colors to changes in length, style and texture, hair is a blank canvas for inspired beauticians to showcase their talents. Of course, transforming luscious locks isn’t the only platform in cosmetology as aesthetics and nails are also part of the package deal.
Manicures range from modest and clean to miniature works of art; skincare has become tailored to individualized needs and concerns; and makeup, well, makeup is like a painter’s box over owing with colors, mediums and tools to create a look that’s soft and subtle or playful and imaginative.
While budding cosmetologists can choose to delve deeper into one of these areas or experiment with all aspects of the profession, before they can do any advanced approaches, they have to learn the basics.
Florida Gateway College’s cosmetology program is a 1,200-contact-hour occupational certifi cate course that provides aspiring students the training, skills and knowledge to become licensed cosmetologists.
“Once the students leave our program they are skilled in the areas of hair care services on all types of hair such as hair analysis, haircutting, hairstyling, and hair coloring. They also learn permanent waving and chemical relaxing. The students also learn the basics of manicuring and pedicuring. They also learn the basics of skincare,” says Brenda L. Jernigan, who is the Cosmetology Program Coordinator.
Jernigan, a previous graduate of FGC’s cosmetology program, returned to her alma mater to become an instructor and more recently was named the new program coordinator for the department. Though she hasn’t had the new title long, Jernigan has already taken steps to make advancements to the program by reforming the advisory council board and arranging for new workshops for students. While nothing is set in stone, Jernigan has other changes for the future lingering in the back of her mind from physically expanding the program’s space to the goal of one day developing a nishing school for graduates to continue their education and keep up with the latest trends and techniques.
“We have an awesome program but I see it being much bigger,” she says.
As it stands now, FGC’s cosmetology certi cation, which accepts enrollment each January and August, begins by teaching students the fundamentals of the industry with the rst semester dedicated to subjects like what is hair, what is it made out of, how to formulate color and the proper use of tools. Once the theory is understood, students take on a more hands-on approach by working with clients in a salon-style atmosphere. Throughout their time in the program, students study and perform a variety of hair care services; nail services like manicuring and pedicuring; and skincare services including skin analysis, facials, makeup application and super uous hair removal. “We are always working hard to make sure that the students that come through this program are getting the best education that they can possibly get to be able to go out into the real world and to leave here right after they nish and start making money,” Jernigan says. “This is a place where you’re going to have fun while you’re learning, and when you leave here, you’re not just going to leave here with the knowledge of hair, but you’re going to have a little bit of everything from life lessons to learning how to adapt.” ■
To learn more about FGC’s Cosmetology Program, which o ers classes Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, visit FGC.edu.
