Back in 2008, Roberta Garcia graduated from San Jacinto College’s associate in cosmetology degree program. Her degree quickly led to a paid position at Arturo’s Hair Design in Kingwood. After a few years of experience, Garcia was able to use her hard earned success to purchase her own salon, Helloo Beautiful Me, in 2011. Today, the Humble, Texas resident accredits her thriving business, complete with a growing staff and list of services, to strong educational foundation at San Jacinto College.
Although she admits her natural affinity for styling initially drew her to cosmetology, Garcia claims the professional training at San Jacinto College gave her the business skills needed to flourish in a competitive market. Aside from providing hair styling, waxing, and makeup application services, her salon has expanded to include classes available to all ages that instructs in cosmetic products and hair styling techniques.
After years spent honing her cosmetology skills, Garcia now believes that the three keys for success include creating close-knit relationships with clients, a solid college education, and the continual pursuit of new knowledge and industry trends.
A community college established in 1961, San Jacinto College holds an enrollment of approximately 30,000 students spread across several campuses located in the Greater Houston area, with its headquarters based in Pasadena, Texas. As of 2015, San Jacinto College boasts eight different career and technical degree and certificate options, including:
- Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology Instructor
- Associate of Applied Science in Cosmetology Operator
- Cosmetology Facial Certificate
- Cosmetology Instructor Certificate of Technology
- Cosmetology Operator Certificate of Technology
- Cosmetology High School Operator Certificate
- Nail Technician Occupational Certificate
- Hair Weaving and Braiding Marketable Skills Achievement Program
Most of San Jacinto cosmetology-based educational programs design curriculum that will qualify graduates to sit for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation examination so they can become licensed cosmetologists.