Why I Became an Educator

By Karen Marple : Licensed Cosmetologist & Educator & College Administrator at La’ James International College Iowa City

After managing a salon and owning my own salon, I decided it was time to share the knowledge I have gained from working with clients, other stylists, from the advanced education I participated in and from the business aspect.

Being an educator is challenging, rewarding and requires patience. Challenging in the respect that students learn in different ways.  Some want to see the technique done and then perform it.  Others just want to get in there and do it.  Part of the job as an educator is to recognize the different learning styles and be able to adapt.

The rewarding aspect comes when you “see the lightbulb come on”.  When the student understands the concept and is able to successfully complete it.  Then to the next step – their first client on the salon floor, and finally, completing their hours and going to work in a salon/spa.

Now, last but not least, patience.  One of the biggest adjustments I had to make in my transition from being a stylist to becoming an educator was learning to slow down.  Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither were my skills and speed.  I had to keep reminding myself that they improved with experience and that’s one thing the students need to understand as well.  Practice makes perfect.

Requirements to become a Cosmetology Instructor:

            Must have an active Cosmetology License for both options

            Option 1:  Minimum of two years experience in a salon

                                Complete 2-day Master Educator Course (offered by LJIC)

                                Pass State Board Examination

            Option 2:  Completion of 1000 hours instructor training

                                Pass State Board Examination

Pictured & Author: Karen Marple : Licensed Cosmetologist & Educator & College Administrator at La’ James International College Iowa City