June 30, 2025
5 Reasons to Try the Student Salon at NW College School of Beauty

When it comes to beauty services, you have plenty of options—from luxury salons to budget-friendly chains. But one hidden gem that many people overlook is the student salon at a beauty school. If you live near one of NW College School of Beauty’s campuses, you’re in luck. Our student salon offers an unbeatable combination of quality, affordability, and a commitment to excellence.
You might be wondering: “Why should I get my hair or nails done by a student?” It’s a fair question, and one we’re excited to answer. Whether you’re looking for a fresh haircut, a bold new hair color, or a relaxing facial, our student salon is worth a visit.
Here are five compelling reasons to book your next beauty service at the student salon at NW College School of Beauty.
1. Professional Supervision Ensures Quality Services
The most common misconception about student salons is that you’re taking a risk by letting a student perform your service. But here’s the truth: our students are closely supervised by licensed, experienced instructors every step of the way.
Before a student ever picks up a pair of shears or a waxing strip, they go through in-depth classroom training and hands-on practice. By the time they’re working in the student salon, they’ve already studied theory, observed demonstrations, and practiced on mannequins.
Once they transition to the student salon floor, they begin to build real-world experience in a carefully controlled environment. Every service is monitored and approved by a licensed instructor to ensure it meets both school and state standards.
What this means for you:
- You get services performed with care and precision.
- Instructors step in to provide guidance or corrections when needed.
- Your satisfaction and safety are top priorities.
This isn’t a DIY operation—this is a professional training environment where your results still matter.
2. Affordable Prices Without Sacrificing Style
Let’s face it: professional beauty services can be expensive. A full color service, haircut, and blowout can cost hundreds of dollars at a top-tier salon. But at the student salon at NW College School of Beauty, you can get salon-quality results at a fraction of the cost.
Our pricing is designed to reflect the training environment while still giving you exceptional value. Whether you’re on a tight budget, saving up for something special, or just love a good deal, our student salon is a smart choice.
Example of services you can save on:
- Haircuts and trims
- Blowouts and styling
- Hair coloring and highlights
- Facials and skin care
- Waxing
- Manicures and pedicures
When you visit our student salon, you’re not just getting a beauty service—you’re getting access to salon luxury without the salon price tag.
3. Support the Next Generation of Beauty Professionals
Every time you book a service at NW College’s student salon, you’re doing more than treating yourself—you’re investing in someone’s future.
Our students are working hard to build their careers in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, and nail technology. They’re passionate, focused, and eager to learn. By giving them the opportunity to work on real clients like you, you help them:
- Gain confidence and experience.
- Practice essential skills in a real-world setting.
- Prepare for the state board licensing exams.
- Build a portfolio and develop a professional mindset.
In short, your appointment helps shape the future of the beauty industry. You’re not just a client—you’re a crucial part of our students’ journey toward becoming licensed professionals.
There’s something special about being part of someone’s learning experience. Our students are incredibly grateful for every client they serve, and it shows in their dedication and attention to detail.
4. A Wide Range of Services in One Convenient Location
One of the best-kept secrets of the student salon at NW College School of Beauty is the wide range of services we offer under one roof. Whether you’re in the mood for a new hairstyle or looking to refresh your skincare routine, you can do it all in one visit.
Depending on the campus and program availability, our student salons offer services in:
- Cosmetology: Haircuts, coloring, highlights, styling, conditioning treatments
- Barbering: Fades, shaves, beard trims, classic and modern cuts
- Esthetics: Facials, skin analysis, microdermabrasion (where permitted), waxing, brow shaping
- Nail Technology: Manicures, pedicures, nail art, gel, and acrylic application
And because it’s a student training environment, our services are always evolving. New techniques, trends, and treatments are introduced regularly as students progress through their programs.
Bonus: You’ll often find services available that many commercial salons don’t offer—like facial massage or deep cleansing treatments—because they’re part of the esthetics training curriculum.
5. Experience the Energy and Creativity of a Learning Environment
There’s something energizing about being surrounded by people who are passionate about what they’re learning. When you step into the student salon at NW College School of Beauty, you’re entering a space full of creativity, ambition, and inspiration.
Our students are not only learning foundational skills—they’re also staying on top of the latest beauty trends, techniques, and tools. That means you can be one of the first to try trending styles like:
- Balayage and vivid hair colors
- Classic and modern barber cuts
- Brow lamination or tinting (where allowed)
- Innovative nail designs
- Advanced facial treatments
The learning environment encourages students to ask questions, get feedback, and improve constantly. They’re motivated to do their best because your satisfaction is part of their success.
Clients often comment on the friendly, welcoming vibe of the student salon. It’s a place where both students and clients grow together.
What to Expect During Your Visit
If it’s your first time visiting a student salon, here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:
1. Booking
Call your nearest NW College campus for availability. Appointments are highly recommended, though walk-ins may be accepted depending on the schedule.
2. Check-In
Arrive a few minutes early to fill out any necessary paperwork. You’ll be matched with a student appropriate for your chosen service.
3. Consultation
Before your service begins, the student will perform a thorough consultation to understand your goals. An instructor may join this step to ensure clarity and feasibility.
4. Service
The student will perform their service while being monitored and coached by a licensed instructor. Services may take slightly longer than at a commercial salon—this is part of the learning process.
5. Instructor Review
Once the service is complete, an instructor will review the work and make any final adjustments if needed.
6. Payment and Gratitude
Services are offered at discounted prices. While tipping is not required, many clients choose to leave a small tip or thank the student directly for their effort and professionalism.
Find a Campus Near You
NW College School of Beauty has multiple campuses throughout Oregon, making it convenient for you to find a student salon near you. Each location is staffed by passionate students and dedicated instructors who are ready to give you a great experience.
Visit our website to:
- View available services
- Check salon hours
- Book your appointment
- Learn more about our programs
Ready to Book?
The student salon at NW College School of Beauty is more than just a place to get a haircut—it’s a place to support future beauty professionals, save money, and experience quality services in a positive, uplifting environment.
So the next time you’re thinking about booking a beauty service, skip the expensive salons and try something new. Our students are ready to show you what they can do—and they just might become your new go-to beauty pros.
Ready to book? Contact your nearest NW College School of Beauty location and schedule your appointment today. We can’t wait to welcome you to our student salon!