MANOR, Texas — Manor Senior High School (MSHS) students are not only working towards graduation and college, but some of them are also working to have a career in cosmetology.
Sixty-four students participate in a program for the cosmetology institute and are able to get real-life experience at the Mustang Manes Salon on the Manor Senior High School campus.
"They need a 1,000 hours by their senior year to take their written and practical exam," instructor Yakeida Murphy explained.
In addition to helping students at MSHS earn their high school diploma, Murphy is helping them receive their cosmetology license.
“I am very excited for them and I think they want it, that is the most exciting part," said Murphy.
Daniela Garcia is finishing up her senior year at the school.
"You can do anything with hair," explained Garcia. "It's my creative outlet to do whatever I want and the same thing with nails."
Garcia told KVUE her mother didn't finish cosmetology school because it was too expensive, so she doesn't take this opportunity for granted.
"It’s amazing. It helps out a lot, like for my pockets," said Garcia. "Just to be able to do it for her and my sisters, it's just not about me. Honestly, just being able to go through this program and it being free and part of our education, it's great."
The average cost for cosmetology schools in Texas is nearly $13,000. If the students pass their state exams, they could start their careers debt-free.
"I tell my students, you know, you can either go into cosmetology right after school and work in the salon or if you choose a four-year college, you can also put yourself through college by working at your own schedule and your own clientele," said Murphy. "So, I think their opportunities are endless."
The cosmetology institute is in its second year at the school.
Garcia said with all of the hours and hard work they put in together, they have become a family.
"[Murphy] has become like a second mom, a school mom," explained Garcia. "She has even helped me with problems outside of school and I can honestly say that being here has helped."
The Mustang Manes Salon is open three days a week and the prices are cheaper there because they are students. The first class will graduate in May.
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