You can expect to spend a few hours a day of class time reading cosmetology textbooks and workbooks. Though the tail end of your education will be spent on the floor working with clients, the beginning will require deep study of the basics of cosmetology including its history, tools and how to manage clients and a business. Every school has different textbook requirements so speak with your school administrative staff for an exact title listing.
The cosmetology student kit is a critical component of your education. You will need it for classroom exercises, on the floor client work and passing your state licensing exam once you have completed the necessary hours to qualify. This kit traditionally contains shears, clippers, irons, a mannequin head, a blow dryer and some basic combs and brushes. Different kits are available and your school may have a preferred vendor.
Working as a cosmetologist can be a messy endeavor and you can expect to ruin some clothes as you learn the ropes. Most cosmetology schools have uniform requirements as their students not only attend classes but also work on the floor of an active salon. You will likely need uniform pants and a shirt in the designated color (usually black), as well as work-safe shoes. Some schools may require you to wear scrubs while you complete the esthetician portion of your education.
Cosmetology school is a specialized form of education dedicated to teaching you a specific set of skills, but a lot of your experience will be similar to what you have dealt with in a traditional classroom. Show up for your first day with folders for organizing important paperwork, highlighters for your textbooks and a notebook and pens for taking notes. Organization is critical in both balancing your school workload and managing your clients once you hit the floor, so invest in a calendar to track important dates or deadlines.