What’s It Like Working in a Student Salon?
What to Expect
You’ve read about cosmetology programs. Maybe you’ve toured a campus or explored financial aid. But there’s one part of beauty school that makes everything real — working in the student salon.
So, what’s it really like?
Let’s break it down.
From Classroom to Salon Floor
At Empire Beauty School, students don’t just learn about hair, skin, and nails — they do it. After completing your core training, you’ll start offering services in a real student salon.
You’ll work with actual clients (yes, real people), just like you would in a professional setting.
That means:
- Booking appointments
- Greeting and consulting with clients
- Performing services like cuts, color, facials, and more
- Cleaning your station and managing tools
- Learning to handle feedback and improve
It’s the most hands-on part of the program — and one of the most rewarding.
Always Supervised, Always Supported
You won’t be alone. Licensed educators are on the salon floor with you at all times. They’ll coach you, help correct mistakes, and offer tips in real time.
You’ll grow your skills and confidence with every appointment.
Services You’ll Practice
Here’s just a taste of what you’ll perform in the student salon, depending on your program:
- Haircuts & Styling
- Hair Coloring & Highlights
- Facials & Skin Treatments
- Waxing & Makeup Application
- Manicures & Pedicures
Each service helps you build a real client experience — from consultation to execution. more about how long cosmetology school takes.
Why the Student Salon Matters
This isn’t just practice. It’s preparation.
Working in a student salon helps you:
- Build speed and technique
- Get comfortable with client communication
- Learn time management
- Receive tips and feedback from the public
- Feel prepared for your first real salon job
Many Empire graduates say the student salon is where they gained the most confidence.
Real People, Real Experience
Clients know they’re working with students, and they often love being part of your learning journey. Some become regulars. Some even request you by name.
It’s not uncommon for students to:
- Build a small following
- Get job offers from impressed clients
Create a portfolio before graduation
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own clients?
Nope. Empire schedules appointments through the Guest Services salon, but you’re welcome to invite friends or family to book!
Do clients pay for services?
Yes — but at discounted student rates. It’s affordable for them and gives you real-world value.
What if I mess up?
Mistakes happen. That’s how you learn. Your instructors are always there to step in, guide you, and make sure each client leaves happy.
Want to See It in Action?
Working in a student salon is where beauty school comes to life. It’s where you take your classroom lessons and turn them into real confidence, real results — and real client connections.
Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.
Join a community, enroll at Empire Beauty School where your dreams become reality.
For more information about Empire Beauty School, or how to enroll, please click!