In high school, I was given the opportunity that many are not. I was given the chance to go to a vocational school with a large and diverse amount of programs. At first, I was skeptical. However, part of me had such a strong desire to start fresh in a new environment and learn something new.

So, I checked the box for cosmetology, and a few months later, I got my acceptance letter.

A normal day for a vocational school student is quite different from typical high school. Senior year consisted of one core class a semester, cosmetology theory, and of course, cosmetology lab. (Oh, and lunch!) Almost everyone who was not in the program would always tell me about "how easy I had it" or how it must be "such a breeze to curl hair all day."

Well, contrary to popular opinion, cosmetology is so much more than just blow dryers and lipstick.

We did chapters in anatomy, chemistry, electricity, microbiology and many more subjects that many wouldn't expect a "hair school student" to be learning about.

After I finished my designated amount of required hours — 1,500 for the state of Ohio — it was time for me to go take my state board exam. This exam was one of the most stressful tests I have ever taken. You are testing from 8 a.m. to about 4 p.m., and everything has to be near perfect or better to pass and get your license. Luckily, I passed and I don't think I would ever be in the mood to do that again.

I am grateful to say that at the age of 17, I already had a trade and a possible career. Yet, I chose to attend college.

Now you may be wondering what I am doing at a university since I have a well-paying career in my back pocket already. Well, my mother always taught me to learn everything I possibly could, for you could never know too much. Also, I didn't mind learning about hair and makeup, which are hobbies of mine. College was always the end goal, especially since I am now the first generation in my family to attend. I don't regret my decision to attend either vocational school or college. Even if I never use my license, it is still a great resume builder and a team-building experience I will never forget. It gave me a first-hand look at what working in a formal business will be like, from the economics of it all to the cleaning and customer service involved.

To sum things up a little, it is important to note once more that cosmetology is not just cute curls and mascara, and the programs are not full of "dumb blondes looking for an easy excuse," as I have been asked. Cosmetology is a combination of problem-solving, leadership, critical thinking, teamwork, and of course, common sense. It is fun, stressful and rewarding all at the same time. The best part of cosmetology is the smile on your client's face when you finish their service and they are so excited about the result. I'm happy to know that no matter how things go in life, I will always have such a fabulous career to fall back on.