Is Cosmetology School Right for You? 5 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

Choosing to pursue a career in beauty can be an exciting and deeply personal decision. Whether you’ve dreamed of becoming a stylist since childhood or recently discovered your passion for hair, makeup, or skincare, cosmetology school can open the door to a creative and rewarding future. But before you take that first step, it’s important to make sure cosmetology school is truly the right fit for you.

At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we believe that great beauty professionals start with great preparation—and that means understanding your goals, your interests, and what beauty education really involves. To help you decide if this path aligns with your future, here are five key questions to ask yourself before enrolling in cosmetology school.

1. Are You Passionate About Beauty, Creativity, and People?

Cosmetology is about much more than cutting hair or applying makeup—it’s about transforming people’s confidence through artistry and connection. Every day, cosmetologists get to create, style, and help clients look and feel their best.

Ask yourself:

• Do you find joy in experimenting with hair color or learning new beauty techniques?
• Are you inspired by the latest fashion and beauty trends?
• Do you enjoy working with people and helping them express themselves?

If the answer is “yes,” you’re already on the right track. At Aveda Institute New Mexico, our students channel their creativity into every service they perform, from precision haircuts to balayage highlights. Our programs are designed for those who want to blend artistry and purpose—helping clients feel beautiful while making a difference.

2. Are You Ready for a Hands-On, Fast-Paced Education?

Cosmetology school isn’t your typical classroom experience. You won’t just be sitting through lectures—you’ll be learning through hands-on practice, real client experiences, and creative expression.

At Aveda Institute New Mexico, our cosmetology program is divided into four phases that build your skills step by step:

• Phase 1 – Foundation: Learn the fundamentals of hair cutting, styling, skincare, nails, and makeup, plus infection control, first aid, and essential life skills.
• Phase 2 – Intermediate Training & State Board Prep: Refine your haircutting and styling techniques, practice on clients in a clinic setting, and prepare for your State Board Exam with expert educator guidance.
• Phase 3 – Advanced Techniques: Explore advanced coloring, chemical restructuring, balayage, foiling, and color correction while mastering modern salon methods.
• Phase 4 – Career Readiness & Business Skills: Develop your professional edge with training in client service, time management, and entrepreneurship, plus resume building and interview preparation.

By the end of the program, you can have both the technical expertise and professional confidence to begin your career as a licensed cosmetologist.

3. Do You Have the Drive to Succeed in a Professional Industry?

Cosmetology is both an art and a business. While your technical skills are vital, success also depends on your motivation, professionalism, and ability to grow your client base.

At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we teach more than just styling techniques—we help students develop the personal and professional habits that turn talent into long-term success. You’ll learn how to:

• Manage your schedule and stay organized
• Build strong client relationships and deliver exceptional service
• Market yourself through social media and networking
• Understand the business side of beauty, including retail and salon operations

Cosmetology offers countless career paths—from working behind the chair to becoming an educator, platform artist, or salon owner—but they all start with dedication. If you’re someone who thrives in an energetic environment and enjoys taking initiative, cosmetology school could be the perfect place to grow.

4. Can You Commit the Time and Energy to Your Training?

Cosmetology school is an investment in your skills, your future, and your career. Before enrolling, it’s important to consider the time commitment required to complete your education.

We know every student’s life looks different, which is why we offer both 3-day and 4-day schedules. The 3-day option takes about 63 weeks to complete, while the 4-day schedule takes around 48 weeks—though the exact timing can vary slightly depending on the phase you’re in. Either way, you’ll spend your time learning in class and practicing your skills on the salon floor, building real-world experience from day one.

Balancing beauty school with work or personal responsibilities can be challenging—but it’s absolutely achievable with the right mindset. Many of our students are parents, career changers, or working professionals who have decided to follow their passion. Our supportive instructors and staff are here to help you stay on track every step of the way.

Ask yourself:

• Am I ready to dedicate the time needed to practice and improve my skills?
• Can I balance my current responsibilities with school commitments?
• Am I prepared to make beauty education a priority for the next several months?

If you’re willing to commit to your education, the payoff can be incredible—a career that allows you to do what you love every day.

5. What Kind of Future Do You Want in Beauty?

One of the most exciting parts of cosmetology is the endless variety of career paths you can explore. Graduates of Aveda Institute New Mexico go on to work in salons, spas, fashion, media, and even education. Some open their own businesses; others travel the world as beauty professionals or become influencers and content creators.

Before enrolling, take time to think about your goals:

• Do you see yourself working in a high-end salon, creating cutting-edge styles?
• Are you drawn to color, makeup artistry, or skincare?
• Would you like to own your own salon or manage a beauty team someday?

Our program is designed to give you the flexibility to shape your future. You can gain the technical, business, and creative skills to adapt to the ever-changing beauty industry—and with the Aveda name behind you, you can enter the field with a trusted reputation and professional credibility.

What Sets Aveda Institute New Mexico Apart

Deciding where to attend cosmetology school is just as important as deciding to enroll. Not all beauty schools offer the same level of training, support, or opportunity—and at Aveda Institute New Mexico, we’re proud to offer an education that’s as inspiring as it is practical.

Here’s what makes our school stand out:

The Aveda Difference
Aveda has set the standard for environmentally responsible beauty. Students at Aveda Institute New Mexico learn with Aveda’s plant-based, cruelty-free products, used by top salons around the world. You’ll be trained in techniques that honor both people and the planet.

Real-World Experience
As you progress through the program, you’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in our student salon*. Working with real guests helps you build confidence, professionalism, and the real-world skills you’ll use throughout your beauty career.

*All services provided by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.

Career Preparation
We don’t just teach beauty—we teach business. Our curriculum includes training in communication, retail, and client management, helping you develop the tools to succeed whether you’re working for a salon or starting your own.

Supportive Environment
Our instructors are more than educators—they’re mentors who are passionate about your growth. We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where creativity thrives, and every student is encouraged to express their unique style.

How to Take the Next Step

If you’ve asked yourself these five questions and feel excited about what’s next, you might be ready to take the next step toward your beauty career. At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we make the enrollment process simple and supportive.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Schedule a Career Planning Session. Visit our campus, meet our instructors, and experience the Aveda difference firsthand.
2. Talk to our admissions team. They’ll help you explore program details, schedules, and financial aid options for those who qualify.
3. Apply and enroll. Once accepted, you’ll begin your journey toward becoming a licensed cosmetologist.

Ready to Find Out If Cosmetology School Is Right for You?

If you’re passionate about beauty, eager to learn, and ready to turn your creativity into a career, cosmetology school could be the perfect fit. And at Aveda Institute New Mexico, we’re here to help you every step of the way—from your first day in class to your first day behind the chair.

Contact us today and see how our cosmetology program can help you style your success.