On a mission.....

going beyond what is expected of me!- Dawn Maglish

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Who is Scissorboy? my mentor

Ok, so I was telling you about my mentors, but I didn't give you any names yet!  My first mentor that responded to one of my e-mails goes by the name of "Scissorboy."  I found Scissorboy on  the web while researching my mentors.  Scissorboy has a website that is a cutting edge educational site for cosmetologist.  Learning is what I love and do, so this site was so cool! http://www.scissorboy.com/
I was super impressed to say the least at what Scissorboy was accomplishing by interviewing these professional stylists. So I wanted to know more about him and how he got started in this type of business.
        First, I e-mailed Scissorboy. I asked questions for a few months. One of the main questions that I asked was to shadow him. (which means: on-site being a part of what he does and learning firsthand), of course this was on my dime! Never ask someone a favor and expect them to pay your way! Sometimes you have to spend to earn, and I was willing to take a chance for the experience.  To my surprise, he said he would be open to it. Shocked as can be and overwhelmed by this amazing opportunity, I began doing more research on what exactly I wanted to do when I finished my degree and how this opportunity would help in the field I choose, if I were to go. I had to ask myself, "Should I take him up on the offer to visit him at his work?."
          After being offered the opportunity to shadow Scissorboy, I took a chance and gave him my cell # and told him if he wanted to know more about me and my interest in the industry to call or text me. I wanted to let him know I was serious and this would be a learning experience for me. BTW Don't give a phone # or address out unless you have done your research, and know who you are giving it to. One day while at school I received a text it was Scissorboy, he was trying to call me. I was so excited! We had a conversation about where I came from, what I was about, and what were possibilities for me to come visit or help this amazing business.  A few days later, I received a e-mail about possibly going to Toronto,Ca to interview some stylists.  I had to be patience to see if this was all going to work out. If the opportunity presented itself I needed to be ready to leave even if it were last minute.                                           

Monday, February 22, 2010

Finding Mentors

This is a part of schooling that people either love or hate.  It's also the part that will show you how much you are willing to put into your career.  This applies not only a hairstylist but any field you decide to enter.  I believe that when you look for a mentor they shouldn't just be a person that does really cool things, or are famous for what they do.  Finding a mentor should really be a personal thing. It should be about your goals and looking forward to what you want in your career's future. You are looking to a mentor as a role model for your success and lifestyle. So here is what I did.  I started by setting personal goals.  Looking to where I wanted to be in 5, 10, and even 15 years.  Once I did that I realized that I was really drawn to editorial work and hairstyling for runway shows. 

starting out

 

I chose to go to a Paul Mitchell partner school. It has it's advantages and disadvantages.  One thing I love is my learning leaders and the administration of the school. They are very busy but for the most part really supportive. Another thing I enjoy is the overall theme and culture of the school. Be Nice or Else, is something we can all learn from. Cosmetology school is a lot of hard work! If you really want something in this industry you can't just wait around for someone to drop it in your lap! You have to be as we call it forward focused, and super proactive about hunting down what you want! In this blog its my goal to share my journey! There have been alot of restless nights and sore feet. Some of the rewards though have been amazing! I want to introduce you to some of my mentors, and people who have inspired me to be what I want to be. Also, to my support system of friends and family, which are critical! thanks for reading and being apart of my experience as a future professional