Aubree Lara has always had a talent for styling hair — even if her earliest clients
were dolls who occasionally ended up with uneven trims. That childhood pastime has
blossomed into a promising career, as the Permian High School senior prepares to graduate
from Odessa College with an associate degree in Cosmetology — nearly two weeks before
she walks the stage at her own high school graduation.
“I’ve always loved playing with dolls and fixing their hair,” Aubree said, remembering
how she would cut and style their hair for fun.
Her passion began to take shape into a future career path in junior high, during a
conversation with a friend who shared the same interest. That spark of curiosity turned
into a real commitment once she reached high school and had to choose an area of study.
Aubree didn't hesitate — she chose cosmetology.
Getting into the Odessa College School of Cosmetology was no small feat. She had to
apply, go through an interview process, and be formally accepted. Both Aubree and
her friend were admitted — and now, after their years of studying and styling, they’ll
graduate together.
“The program is a mix of bookwork and hands-on experience,” Aubree explained. “The
bookwork is done outside of class on your own time. In class, it’s totally hands-on.”
Her early days working on real clients were a test of nerves and skill.
“I was nervous at first,” she said. “But my confidence grew the more I worked with
clients.”
Among all the skills she’s learned, Aubree especially enjoys haircutting and coloring.
“The hardest for me is nails,” she added with a laugh.
With graduation just around the corner, Aubree has already cleared one major hurdle:
she’s passed the written portion of her State Board Exam. The final step will be the
physical exam in late May or June, where she’ll demonstrate the skills she’s spent
the last two years mastering.
Once licensed, she’ll be eligible to work in a salon — and she’s eager to keep growing
in her profession. “What I love about cosmetology is that even five or ten years from
now, I’ll still be learning,” Aubree said. “There’s always something new. Eventually,
I’d like to own my own salon.”
For Aubree Lara, the journey from doll haircuts to professional stylist is nearly
complete — and it’s only the beginning.