Good news for cosmetology school graduates who have been waiting to take their license exams. Testing for the written portion started on November 12th. And, students began taking their practical tests last week; this after the state board was forced to outsource testing.
Since July 1st, more than 700 students have been waiting to get licensed. Many of them have been working in salons on permits until they are able to take their exams.
The State Board of Cosmetology tells us, since the testing has started they have received about five licensure applications a day, which is about 40 total.
"Once I get licensed the possibilities are endless," comments a recent graduate.
Zoe Rushing has been waiting since October to become a licensed cosmetologist.
"When it all started I thought I would have to wait six months to a year. Finding out I could take it in January was great," recalls Rushing.
She’s been working at a local salon on a permit while she is able to take her tests.
"Right now, I’m making negative money because I’m paying rent and not making rent. It’s frustrating because it's been so slow," explains Rushing.
Rushing says some of her former classmates had to drop out because they were not financially able to wait to get tested. But, for those who stuck it out, schools like Magnolia College offered refresher classes for their graduates.
"It’s beneficial to have teachers to give us a second chance to learn thing we're nervous about," adds Rushing.
Rushing is scheduled to take the second part of her exam on Monday.
We’re told there are about six testing sites statewide. And, there are an additional seven testing site in neighboring states.
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