We had the opportunity to catch up with three graduates at Changes Salon in Latham, New York. Changes is a beautiful salon owned by stylist Joe Green and has a wonderful assistant program where graduates are nurtured to grow.
First up, Elke Farinacci, is a 2008 graduate who has been at Changes since July 2013. Elke grew up in the industry, with her mother (our very own Mrs. Siebels) who owned Cuts and Such in Troy, New York. Elke and her sisters played “tanning salon”, swept floors and would greet customers! After graduating high school, Elke was focused on going to college and entered into nursing school. After a couple years of college under her belt, Elke decided to turn her career goals into cosmetology.
Elke had a great time while at The Orlo School. She advises current students to make the most of school, make new friends and get ready to work hard! You need to lay the foundation and understand the basics.
Elke loves Changes for many reasons most importantly because it is a great place to grow and learn. Every Thursday, the salon participates in education where they learn from each other, the owner or different instructional videos. Elke said, ”Why would I ever say no to education, knowing what it costs outside of the salon.”
A piece of advice Elke shares with current students, “In order to be successful, be your best. There are salons on every corner and you want to work where you love.” Thank you, Elke! We wish you much continued success.
Our next graduate, Leah Quinn, is a 2013 graduate who has been working at Changes since January 2014. Leah has never been happier since joining Changes. After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree from UAlbany in Communications, Leah didn’t really find a passion until she started at The Orlo.
Leah says that she took a little bit of a longer path to get into cosmetology but appreciates how every experience in life shapes you into what you are. She felt mature and focused when she started at The Orlo. Leah juggled working full time and going to school full time but she said it was “definitely worth it.” She loved her time at The Orlo where she misses seeing all her teachers and friends in the morning. Leah also felt completely prepared for the State Board exams.
Starting as an assistant, Leah was responsible for everything! She currently assists twice a week and takes clients three times a week. Leah loves the educational opportunities at Changes. She has trained at the Keune Academy in Atlanta and has traveled to Rochester for additional training.
Leah takes pride in her work and loves a neat and polished look that coincides with her classic style. Bravo Leah! Best of luck to you!
Our final graduate, Sandy Smith, is a very recent graduate completing the course in June 2014. Sandy is a part time assistant at Changes in addition to being a Teachers Aide in Cohoes City School District. Sandy was a client of Changes and knew she wanted to work there after she graduated. Sandy loves doing hair and would eventually love to do it full time.
Sandy worked hard building a portfolio and resume while she was at The Orlo and had an interview with Changes lined up before she graduated. She loves the in-house training on Thursdays especially with Joe. She has been learning a lot and loves learning a new color line.
Sandy misses her buddy Miss. Brown and offers some advice to current students, “Go to school everyday and ask for help.” Congratulations on your new career Sandy and enjoy the ride!