Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
by Anne Moratto
The Ones We Lose: How to Stop Student Attrition in Barber and Beauty Schools
Too many students leave beauty and barber programs without saying goodbye. Rodrick Samuels explores why they disappear—and how educators and school leaders can help them stay.
by Rodrick Samuels, Education Director and Industry Advocate
July 23, 2025
Rodrick Samuels demonstrating while his barbering student observes.
3 min to read
Every semester, new students walk through our doors carrying more than a kit—they carry dreams, burdens, and potential.
They show up early. They’re focused. Their ambition is obvious. You see it in their posture, their questions, their determination.
But too often, just as they begin to find their rhythm, they vanish.
No withdrawal form. No explanation. Just a missing name on your attendance list.
And the reality is sobering: nearly one-third of students in career and technical programs leave before graduating. Not because they couldn’t handle the work—but because no one saw the cracks forming.
Rodrick Samuels empowers aspiring barbers with expert instruction and one-on-one mentorship.
Barber and Beauty Students Face a Different Kind of Pressure
Let’s tell the truth: students in this industry are some of the most resilient people you’ll ever meet.
They come to us from all walks of life—parents, caretakers, second-chancers, first-gen graduates.
Many are balancing jobs, raising families, and trying to break generational cycles.
They don’t drop out because they’re lazy.
They drop out because no one noticed they were drowning.
Financial strain. Mental health. Housing insecurity. Family obligations. Burnout.
These aren’t rare exceptions—they’re common barriers our students face.
And when the pressure builds silently, even the most promising student can fade without a word.
For Instructors: Awareness Is Your Most Powerful Tool
Instructors are the first line of defense.
Not just in building skill—but in catching struggle.
As educators, we must learn to read the room beyond the roll call.
If a student who used to be early is suddenly rushing in last minute—ask why.
If someone becomes quiet during demos or disengages during clinic—check in.
If their energy shifts, their attendance falters, their performance drops—lean in, not away.
Sometimes, your attention is the difference between a dropout and a breakthrough.
Teaching the next generation of barbers, Rodrick Samuels emphasizes technique, professionalism, and personal growth.
For School Leadership: Build Culture That Catches Students Before They Fall
Retention isn’t just an instructor problem—it’s a leadership responsibility.
Every school should be equipped with:
Early intervention systems that track attendance, engagement, and performance trends
Mental health awareness training for all staff
Support services that are visible, accessible, and stigma-free
Celebration of progress, not just perfection—every “still here” deserves recognition
This isn’t just about helping students finish.
It’s about honoring their commitment to start.
School leader Rodrick Samuels coaches a student on advanced clipper cutting—elevating technical precision and confidence.
The Stakes Are Higher Than You Think
When we lose a student, we lose more than a seat in class.
We lose a future barber. A future stylist. A potential educator. A community leader. A business owner.
We lose someone who believed, however briefly—that this industry could change their life.
The good news? We can stop the bleeding.
We just have to start looking up. Listening more. Assuming less. And choosing to lead with curiosity instead of correction.
Rodrick Samuels teaches a hands-on barbering technique, inspiring future professionals through expert guidance.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Miss Who’s Fading
The most dangerous thing about student attrition is that it often goes unnoticed until it’s final.
The fade is gradual. The exit is quiet.
But the impact? Loud.
If you want to shape the future of this industry, don’t just teach the ones who shine.
Fight for the ones who are fading.
Because sometimes, they don’t need another lesson.
They just need someone to see them.
Rodrick Samuels is the Education Director at Hair Lab Detroit Barber School, a national educator, and author of The Silent Work. His mission is to raise the standard of instruction in barber and beauty education—one conversation at a time.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
More Career
AI Won't Replace Your Voice—Unless You Let It
"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic
by Anne Moratto
50 Smart Things Beauty Educators Have Told Us
Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.
by Anne Moratto
What Salon and Spa Professionals Need to Know About Skin Longevity
Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.
Financial Educator Anna Manukyan Launches Masterclass for Early Career Stylists
Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.
6 Ways Self-Love Will Help You Crush Your Goals
From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.
MODERN SALON Boot Camp Heads to Austin: One-Day Beauty Business & Career Education Event for Beauty Professionals
A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.
How Michelle Bowden Had a Breakout Year (and How Other Stylists Can, Too)
From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.
Ulta Beauty and Beauty Changes Lives Launch “The Possibilities Are Beautiful” Cosmetology Student Scholarship
This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.
A Path for Everyone: Great Clips Salons Offer Diverse Career Opportunities
Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips
Are Salon Suites Becoming Too Cheap? The Hidden Risks of Low Salon Suite Rent
Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.
Magical Creatures: Why These Stylists Love Creating Fantasy Hair Color
These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.
by Anne Moratto
Keratin Complex Launches KC on Tour 2026 with Tabatha Coffey
Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.
by Anne Moratto
Why Soft Skills and Client Communication Matter More Than Ever in the Beauty Industry
Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.
by Anne Moratto
Author Daniel Cubillo Drops the Blueprint for Building a Career in the Content Arena
In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.
What Custom Notifications Tell Us About the Personalized Future of the Salon Client Experience
Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.
Beautiful Careers Happen Here
Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty