This week, our seniors in Cosmetology III had the opportunity to participate in a dynamic two-day workshop Blow Dry & Salon Etiquette led by an industry professional, Mackenzie Mendrick, who also happens to be a Class of 2023 Albany High graduate!
This workshop is the first of five alumni visits planned throughout the 2025-26 year for our students participating in the cosmetology program.
Mendrick started her cosmetology education here at Albany High, and upon graduation, secured her cosmetology license and began working at Jean Paul Spa and Salons, where she is now a full time hairstylist, makeup artist and wax technician.
During the workshop, students participated in a lecture, observed a step-by-step demonstration of a wash and blow dry and then practiced the techniques in small groups on mannequin heads.
With Mendrick's guidance, students were coached on important skills that should be implemented on the salon floor when working with customers. Students also learned about the how to utilize and maintain beauty tools, gaining insights on the cost of professional blow dryers, curling irons, brushes and more.
At the conclusion of the workshop, Mendrick shared parting words of wisdom for success in the beauty industry, and then presented a lovely certificate to each student participant.
Not only are we proud to see Mendrick thriving in her field, we are also immensely grateful for her willingness to enrich our students' career and technical education experience here at Albany High!
With her expert coaching, our students are confident and ready for our free clinics for Albany residents who are 55 years of age and older, which begin on Thursday, Oct. 9 here at our Albany High salon.