Across the globe, beauty is defined differently by various cultures. How beauty is taught in international cosmetology schools is very different as well! We talk to Rosemary Costa, Pivot Point International Academy salon essentials division manager for Trinidad and Tobago, about what it?s like to be a beauty school student in the southern Caribbean.
Q. How is beauty defined in Trinidad and Tobago?
A. Just as in the US, both men and women are concerned with appearance. Trinidad and Tobago hosts a diversity of many different cultures all coming together, so the overall appearance of most Trinidadians is quite exotic. In advertising and on TV, it's a combination of beauty and sex appeal. As Trinidad is the birthplace of Calypso music, there are many festivals and ceremonies throughout the year. During carnival time, you tend to see a lot more fancy updos and more color in fashion including blues, pinks, yellows and greens.
Q. How much does it cost to attend cosmetology school?
A. It costs $12,000, depending on your area of study.
Q. Upon graduation, what are professionals licensed to practice?
A. Students can choose to focus on esthetics or cosmetology. Right now, keratin treatments and hair extensions are both popular services requested in the salon. These services are taught in our schools for cosmetology students. Though educational trade shows are not available here, we do offer workshops with manufacturers from brands we distribute.
Q. Is it difficult to find employment upon graduation?
A. Jobs are quite easy to find, because the students who are graduating are far better qualified than any other institution currently available here in Trinidad. You need to be well put together, though—being sure to look the part. You also have to have a very vibrant personality and be willing and able to work long, hard hours.
For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.
media brand