Recently went to the Aveda Institute for a simple cut/wash/style and can say I recommend it for people who are
1. Patient
Appointments do take longer then a normal salon (my cut took about 2 1/2) so keep in mind its not a place to go if you are in a hurry. The students do a great job, but they do consult their teachers every few steps so it does take some time.
2. People who know what they want or are open to ideas
You have to be descriptive and specific if you want something exact. I asked for a trim and they did cut more than I wanted but I did like the results. Bring pictures if you have something particular in mind (way easier to explain).
3. People who know how to explain their hair
If you don't give lots of details, the stylist can only assume how your hair works from looking at it. Since they don't have years of experience, being as through as possible helps. For example, I can't have short layers since my hair poofs out due to the volume, but I wanted to get rid of the bulk which requires a different technique. The lady next to me getting a dye clearly didn't know how to explain her hair so her stylist was a little stressed.
4. Looking for a great deal
My cut/wash/style and a nice massage cost me $28. Great price in the city and the teachers do check to make sure the cut was done properly. My friend who goes often says there isn't a huge difference for cut quality between the Institute (the beginner level) vs. the Academy (senior level). It's mostly a speed thing (if you hate waiting pay a bit more).
My student stylist's name was Stacey and she did a wonderful job despite having a few kinks to iron out. I rebooked with her to re-do my ombre in july so will update my review on coloring when I get it done!
PS: I don't know where the one reviewer got the idea you can't book without a credit card... I did it over the phone and never gave my credit card # then.
UPDATE:
I've gone twice for a cut and once for a color now, so quick update concerning color.
Once again, AWESOME job for my ombre. The color turned out really nice despite the fact I didn't have any swatches or pictures of what I really wanted. I like to believe its best to leave color choices to the educators since they know what would look best with your current color + skin tone (though I did ask for a mid-tone brown and nothing with red undertones). Only con I would give is there were one or two spots I thought didn't blend as well as the previous ombre I got at a much more expensive salon. However, for roughly $30 the price can't be beat!