WALKING IN MY DREAM...

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Gwen of http://allmyseams.blogspot.com  recently commented:

"Faye, I don't remember you ever saying on your blog exactly what you do for a living. But, by the photos you post, I assume you are a hair stylist teacher, or own a studio, or something akin to that."

My Answer: 

I am actually working in my dream.   I have  been a licensed master cosmetologist for 25 years; licensed instructor for 5 years.  Prior to becoming an instructor I worked part-time at two salons; and afterwards managed my own salon for 13 years. 

I've been employed by our local Technical College (fully accredited) for 11 years (6 years as adjunct and 5 years as full time instructor).   I taught on the adult level for 6 years, and am in my 5^th year as high school instructor, which is an all together entirely different mindset as you might guess.  I work in an actual high school.

My students are Dually Enrolled which mean they earn high school and college credit simultaneously.  The classes are college level with a number of the students transferring to full-time college enrollment to complete the program.  My two year program gives them a head start on diploma program.  After transferring they then go on to test for state licensure. A number of my students have even gone on to salon ownership.

It is a very rewarding program  - both for students and for me.  I follow-up on them after transfer.  I am so very proud that they can actually keep up with the adult students when they enter college full time.   Our diploma can also lead to  a Crossover Barber-Stylist Certificate, and/or a Technical Studies Degree - which is transferable.  

Working in this program is a privilege and a pleasure.  I had ALWAYS wanted to teach something, I just took the long way getting to it.  I call my job walking in my dream...