Thinking About Beauty School? Here’s How to Plan for Life Outside the Classroom

Choosing to attend beauty school is exciting. You’re picturing hands-on training, learning new techniques, working with real clients, and building a career doing something creative and meaningful.

But there’s another side of the journey that doesn’t get talked about enough.

Success in beauty school isn’t just about what happens in the classroom or clinic floor — it’s also about what happens outside of school.

At David Pressley School of Cosmetology, we’ve seen firsthand that students who thrive aren’t just talented or passionate. They’re prepared. They’ve thought through their daily routines, responsibilities, and logistics before day one.

In fact, one of the most common reasons students withdraw early has nothing to do with ability — it’s simply lack of preparation for real life.

That’s why planning ahead for childcare, transportation, and life balance can make all the difference.

If you’re thinking about enrolling, here’s how to set yourself up for success before classes even begin.

Beauty School Is a Commitment — Treat It Like a Job

Cosmetology school isn’t a casual hobby or a once-in-a-while class. It’s professional training.

That means:

• Consistent attendance
• Showing up on time
• Completing hands-on practice hours
• Studying and preparing outside of class
• Working with real clients

At David Pressley, you’ll be building the habits that salons and employers expect from licensed professionals. Think of school as your first step into the workforce.

And just like any job, life logistics matter.

Before you start, ask yourself:

• How will I get to school every day?
• Who will watch my kids?
• How many hours can I realistically work outside of school?
• When will I study or practice?
• What happens if something unexpected comes up?

Planning now prevents stress later.

Real-World Preparation Matters More Than You Think

It’s easy to focus on the fun parts of beauty school — learning color techniques, mastering fades, perfecting skincare treatments, or styling your first client.

But students who succeed long-term usually have something else in common: stability.

When your day-to-day life runs smoothly, you can focus on learning instead of scrambling to solve problems.

That’s why David Pressley encourages prospective students to talk through real-life planning during their tour. We want you to feel confident not just about enrolling, but about finishing.

Let’s break down the three biggest areas to think through.

Childcare Support: Planning Ahead as a Parent

If you’re a parent, going back to school can feel overwhelming. Between drop-offs, pick-ups, homework, and family time, adding cosmetology school might seem impossible.

But many parents successfully complete the program every year — and you can too.

The key? Having a clear childcare plan before your first day.

While David Pressley does not offer on-site childcare, we’re happy to share ideas and local resources that have worked for past students. During your tour, you can talk with staff about realistic scheduling and strategies that fit your life.

Tips from past student experiences:

1. Set up consistent childcare

• Family members or trusted friends
• Daycare or after-school programs
• Babysitting swaps with other parents

Consistency reduces last-minute stress.

2. Create a backup plan
   Kids get sick. Babysitters cancel. Life happens.

Have at least one backup option ready so you don’t miss important training hours.

3. Match your schedule wisely
   If mornings are hectic, consider afternoon or evening options (if available). Choose the time of day when you’re least rushed and most focused.
4. Communicate early
   Let your support system know this is serious career training, not a hobby. Treat it like a job commitment.

Questions to ask during your tour:

• What are the daily class hours?
• Are there different schedule options?
• How long is the program?
• What does attendance look like?

When you understand your time commitment, it’s much easier to build a realistic childcare plan around it.

Transportation: Your Daily Game Plan

Transportation might seem simple — until it isn’t.

A late bus, unreliable car, or long commute can quickly lead to missed hours and added stress. And in a clock-hour program like cosmetology, every hour counts.

At David Pressley School of Cosmetology, we encourage students to think carefully about their daily commute before enrolling.

Ask yourself:

• How long will my commute really take during traffic?
• Do I have reliable transportation every day?
• What happens if my car breaks down?
• Is there parking nearby?
• Can I take public transportation?

Things to consider:

Free or nearby parking
If you’re driving, know exactly where you’ll park and how long it takes to walk in.

Public transportation access
If you’re riding the bus, test the route ahead of time. Do a practice commute to see how long it takes.

Carpooling
Many students connect with classmates who live nearby. Sharing rides can save money and add accountability.

Leave buffer time
Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early. Unexpected delays happen — planning ahead keeps you stress-free.

Reliable transportation equals consistent attendance. Consistent attendance equals graduation.

It really is that simple.

Balancing Life and School Without Burning Out

Most David Pressley students aren’t just students.

They’re:

• Working part-time jobs
• Supporting families
• Managing households
• Caring for relatives
• Handling other responsibilities

So balance isn’t optional — it’s essential.

The goal isn’t to do everything perfectly. It’s to create a routine that’s sustainable.

Start with a realistic weekly schedule

Map out:

• Class hours
• Work hours
• Commute time
• Study/practice time
• Family responsibilities
• Personal time

Seeing everything on paper helps you spot overload before it happens.

Smart balance strategies:

Limit work hours if possible
Beauty school is hands-on. You’ll be on your feet learning all day. Working too many extra hours can lead to burnout.

Meal prep or plan ahead
Having meals ready saves time and energy during busy weeks.

Use small study windows
Practice flashcards or review techniques during short breaks.

Protect your rest time
Sleep is crucial when you’re learning new physical skills.

Ask for help
Family and friends are often more supportive than we expect — especially when they understand this is your career goal.

Remember: this season is temporary. The hard work now leads to long-term freedom and opportunity later.

Mindset Matters Too

Logistics are important, but mindset is just as powerful.

When you start beauty school with a plan, you feel:

• More confident
• Less stressed
• More focused
• More likely to finish

Preparation turns “I hope I can do this” into “I’ve got this.”

At David Pressley, we want every student who enrolls to cross the graduation stage. That’s why we talk openly about real life during tours — not just the exciting parts.

Because your success matters.

Questions to Ask During Your Tour

To fully prepare, bring these questions with you:

Childcare

• What are the daily time commitments?
• What have other parents done successfully?

Transportation

• Where do students park?
• Is public transportation nearby?
• What time should I realistically arrive?

Scheduling

• What does a typical day look like?
• How many hours per week are required?
• How long is the full program?

Support

• Who do I talk to if life challenges come up?
• Are there student resources available?

The more information you have, the stronger your plan will be.

Your Future Is Worth Planning For

Choosing beauty school is an investment — not just financially, but personally.

It’s an investment in:

• Your skills
• Your independence
• Your creativity
• Your career
• Your future

And like any investment, preparation protects it.

When you think through childcare, transportation, and life balance ahead of time, you’re not just organizing your schedule — you’re increasing your chances of success.

At David Pressley School of Cosmetology, we’re here to support you from your first tour to graduation day. We want you to walk in prepared, confident, and ready to thrive.

Because when your life outside the classroom is stable, everything inside the classroom becomes possible.

Ready to take the next step?

Contact us and start building your plan today. Your future in beauty starts with preparation — and we’re excited to help you make it happen.