Cosmo Students Pamper Guests at Spring Event

 Spring is in the air, which means the scent of nail polish, the warm breeze of blow dryers and a feeling of festivity in the Cosmetology Academy at The Tech Center at Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES. At their annual Spring Event this week, Cosmo students treated their moms, dads, relatives or friends to a makeover, haircut, mani/pedi and lunch.

“I am so delighted with all the services I've gotten today,” said Lorraine Anderson whose daughter Alexis was finishing up her manicure. “It was the best hand massage ever.”  Alexis, from Brewster, will study at SUNY Purchase next year. “I think this program has been great for my daughter,” Lorraine said, “because you can learn a skill and go to college. We need to get the word out about all the great programs they have at Tech.”

Over in the hair-styling section, guests were treated to cuts, blow dries and styling. “I think my daughter is going to make an amazing hairdresser,” said Randy Patterson of daughter Tyler, from Putnam Valley, as Tyler styled her mom's curly tresses.

 “I would come as often as she lets me,” said Jill Knapp, from Mahopac, as her daughter Hailey worked on her mom's blow-dry.

 BOCES’ Cosmetology program is a two-year program for high school juniors and seniors. Upon completion, the students are eligible to take the New York State exam to become licensed cosmetologists.

 Janice Ungaro, from Mahopac, worked on her sister Nicole's hair. “I'm so proud of my sister,” said Nicole, who also graduated from the program. Janice already has a job lined up after graduation at a salon in the Westchester mall.

After the pampering treatments, Culinary students provided a lavish brunch, while students talked about their time in the Cosmetology department.

Tori Weissleder from Mahopac said, “I’ve gotten more out of the Cosmetology program than I could ever have imagined. This is like a second home to me. The program helped me reach my my goal of being a freelance makeup artist.”

Jess Bellenchia from Mahopac said, “To me, cosmetology is about making your clients feel amazing!”This event is so important, according to Cosmo teacher Pat Gilman, because “It’s a celebration of the talents and skills of two years’ worth of work!”