Cosmetology student enjoys new beauty adviser job
Ryan Diminick
Editorial Intern
FLEMINGTON – Chris Scheier is currently a cosmetology student at Hunterdon County Polytech. He is also the new beauty adviser at ShopRite of Flemington, where he offers consultations, makeovers and product assistance in hair, makeup and skin care.
"I've been there for about three weeks," he said. "It seems to be going well so far."
The new service is offered at ShopRite through Premier Beauty. Scheier is available to assist customers Thursdays through Sundays.
He first heard of the opportunity through his teacher, Mia Murphy, and landed the job after interviewing.
Scheier plans to remain at Shop Rite until at least the end of June, when he completes the cosmetology program and receives his state license. After that, he intends to start looking for salon jobs.
He plans to work as a hair stylist and eventually a hair and makeup artist in film, theater and magazines.
"I'd probably start off in the fashion industry," he said. "That's my main focus now. If I could get into film, that would be awesome. It's a hard business to get into."
Scheier's position at Shop Rite has provided him great opportunities. Premier Beauty has sent him for training to Johnson & Johnson, L'Oreal and Maybelline, among others.
"The cosmetology program at Polytech fully prepared me to begin my career with this position," he said.
Scheier was first introduced to Polytech during his junior year at Hunterdon Central. He initially began in the commercial arts program and then switched to cosmetology during his senior year.
He graduated from the high school this past June.
Also a photographer, Scheier said that he's looked into some makeup schools, including the Make-Up Designory and the Make Up For Ever Academy, both located in New York City. He's still undecided about whether or not he'll continue his education.
He did say that he would love to train with a makeup artist.
The Polytech program
Scheier also praised the Polytech program.
"It just really worked out conveniently with school and my schedule," he said. "It's a quick program and you learn a lot."
Hunterdon County Polytech's Cosmetology Programs prepare students for the practical and theory portions of the New Jersey Cosmetology State Board Licensing Exam, as well as successful employment in the field.
There is a focus on training and instruction in all phases of hair, nail, skin care and makeup application. Each student is able to receive their permit after acquiring 600 of the 1,000 state required hours of instruction.
At that time, he or she is able to apply knowledge in school-operated salons that are open to the public.
For more information about the High School Cosmetology Program, call 908-284-1444 ext. 2115 for Elaine DeBenedetto, ext. 2120 for Mia Murphy, ext. 3502 for Michele Magnani or visit www.hcpolytech.org.
Scheier had some words of advice for aspiring students.
"Focus," he said. "Figure out if it's what you want to be doing. If you have passion, you'll be okay. Do your work and educate yourself. You have to keep educating yourself if you want to go further."
Editorial Intern Ryan Diminick: 908-243-6602; RDiminick@MyCentralJersey.com.