The lessons that students learn in the classroom need not stay in the classroom. The expertise they are developing in pursuit of their desired career can actually be put to good use, and it is.
Many Orange County schools offer student-performed services to the public at discounted rates. So if you don’t mind being worked on or served by students aspiring to be anything from hairdressers, estheticians and massage therapists to chefs, mechanics and even budding musicians, then you can take advantage of the plethora of burgeoning student talent out there.
What’s most attractive is that all of these services are performed by up-and-coming professionals offered at very enticing rates. Keep in mind that walk-ins are welcome at most of the schools but appointments are encouraged to guarantee optimal satisfaction since customers have to work around the teaching schedule. Also, allot yourself ample time: Your appointment may take longer than you’re used to because instructors typically oversee and direct students as they work. Lastly, you should consider the possibility for occasional mistakes – but the savings involved might end up outweighing the risks.
BEAUTY
A myriad of services are offered at area schools that include tints, bleaches, cuts, styles, facials, manicures, and all-over waxing. Prices start as low as $4.99 for a haircut with shampoo and conditioner (Marinello Schools of Beauty).
Career Academy of Beauty
12471 Valley View St., Garden Grove
:: 714.897.3010
Goldenwest College
15744 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach
:: 714.895.8115 Ext. 1 :: 714.895.8124 (skin care)
Marinello Schools of Beauty
19022 Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach
:: 714.962.8831
Paul Mitchell The School – Costa Mesa
1534 Adams Ave., Costa Mesa
:: 714.546.8786
SPA
Like a mini spa, here students have passed their core technique courses and are trying to accrue clinical hours to get their certificates. Prices vary depending on the month (there are monthly specials). The most popular treatments are the Swedish massage for $35 and the deep tissue massage for $45.
CNI College
702 West Town and Country Rd. Building D, Orange
:: 714.437.9697
DINING
Eat here and you will be in for a treat. Students are actually in class when they work their culinary magic on customers and I witnessed myself as students turned doubtful diners into happy ones after they tasted the day’s delectable fare. You must call for hours of operation and current menu since these change every quarter.
50 Forks Restaurant at The Art Institute of California – Orange County
3601 W. Sunflower Ave., Santa Ana
:: 714.429.0918
AUTO
Services are limited but students can perform smog checks, tune-ups, front-end alignments, and brake work. Hours depend on the class schedule for the quarter.
Goldenwest College/Automotive Department
15744 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach
:: 714.895.8276
MUSIC
Rates are negotiable. Contact local colleges with schools of music and they can post job opportunities to aspiring young artists who are willing to work for a discounted fee.
University of California, Irvine/Department of Music
4000 Mesa Rd./303 Music and Media Building, Irvine
:: 949.824.6615
