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I’m a Hairdresser

April 2024
Tyler John Ohrt as told to Ellen Song

Tyler John Ohrt loves helping people express themselves. As a hairdresser, he cuts, colors, and styles people’s hair. Some hairdressers specialize in specific types of hair textures and styles, but Tyler John cuts all types and lengths of hair. His clients visit him for regular haircuts as well as special styles for big events such as weddings and proms. Tyler John works in a salon, and his clients come to him. But some hairdressers work out of their homes or travel to their customers. Do you think you might be interested in cutting and styling hair for a living? Read on for more information about this career.

I grew up in a small town in Illinois. I was always interested in cool clothes (color-changing tees were big at the time!) and creative hairstyles. One time, when I was 13, I asked my family barber to make me look like the drummer of a rock band I liked.

I worked in an office in my 20s, but I didn’t enjoy it. During a haircut, I told my stylist I wished I could be a therapist. He said his job involved listening to people and letting them express themselves.

I did a one-year cosmetology program at a technical college. I specialized in hair. We practiced on wigs before working on real people. I also learned about styling techniques, hygiene, and safety.

I often see my clients throughout many different phases of their lives. Sometimes, my clients even get emotional and teary when we’re done because they’re so happy with their new haircuts. 

I might see six or seven clients a day. I stand the whole time, which is tiring. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I get to meet so many cool people. It’s awesome to help clients look and feel their best.

Tyler John’s Tips For Becoming A Hairdresser

  1. Ask if your school has a trade program that can connect you to local salons or barbershops.
  2. Enroll in a cosmetology school or a cosmetology program at a community college. Most states require courses to become certified.
  3. Take the licensing exam offered in your state, which will have both written and hands-on tests.

Life Skills
Career Skills
Underscored

verb:

emphasized
pursue college

Question: In what other ways could the college search and application process be more difficult if you’re the first in your family to go to college?
football coach

Question: Why can it be important to ask for help when trying to reach your goals?
love of learning

Question: What are some actions you could take to make sure you don’t lose sight of future goals?
never considered

FYI: In the 2011-2012 academic year, 34% of undergrads were the first in their families to go to college. 
technical college

FYI: Students who go to technical schools—also called vocational schools—take classes and complete training that prepares them for a specific job, such as to be an automotive mechanic, chef, or cosmetologist. 
tirelessly

adverb:

seemingly incapable of tiring
perseverance

noun:

continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition
veer

verb:

to change direction or course
fiercely

adverb:

to a high degree
financial aid paperwork

FYI: First-generation college students take out student loans in higher amounts than students who have parents that went to college. They also take out student loans more often.  

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