Second year students in Dutchess BOCES’ Cosmetology program at the Career & Technical Institute learned the tricks of the trade and bought supplies to use in class at the International Beauty Show, or IBS, on March 7.
Held at the Javits Center in New York, the show hosts hundreds of exhibitors offering haircare products and accessories and beauty demonstrations.
It is the first time students in Cosmetology Instructor Melissa Lennon’s class have attended in three years due to COVID.
“This trip is looked forward to by all cosmetology almost from the beginning of their two years here,” Lennon said. “We were so excited to take the students this year as we returned to ‘normal’.” 
The show gives Lennon’s and fellow Cosmetology Instructor Nicole Laino’s students a chance to learn about new trends and products that are available or will soon be for industry professionals. Students are required to attend two courses, take notes and write an essay about their experience once they return.
“They get to experience something that is almost a tradition for most licensed cosmetologists,” Lennon said. “It is usually a great experience for all who attend especially if this is their chosen career path.”
Maricruz Montes-Garcia enjoyed a course she took on microblading, a semi-permanent eyebrow treatment, and seeing how the instructors used similar hairstyling techniques she uses, but in a different way. Understanding technical terms she learned at CTI made the experience a breeze.
“I try my best to do well in school so I can understand what they’re saying,” Montes-Garcia said. “It’s like a Toys ‘R’ Us for cosmetologists.”
Out of the many products available for purchase, Montes-Garcia was intrigued by an organic skin care product, which has inspired her to launch her own brand of locally sourced beauty supplies. She highly recommends future students attend the show, but stick to a budget.
“I am actually really surprised that I even came back home with some money,” Montes-Garcia said. “Regardless of what you do, it’s an experience you just want to have at some point in your life.”
Nolah Stringham watched a haircut demo and was so impressed by the instructor that she bought swivel shears from them, which will make her job easier.
“They’re so much better,” Stringham said of her new purchase. “Quality sheers versus cheap ones are going to last you so much longer.”
The trip was just one of many real world experiences Stringham and her classmates get to experience in class, which she appreciates.
“It’s such a big attraction; it’s packed when you get in there,” Stringham said. “It’s so different than just being in the classroom.”
Published March 22, 2023