I get my hair colored here every 8 weeks or so and I've definitely learned a few tricks to get the most out of your experience here. While the students are all very nice, they really are just learning and so it will take some work on your part to get your hair the way you want.
First, don't come here if you want something difficult or if you are a perfectionist. These are students and while they are under the supervision of instructors, they're still just learning. The more complicated the hairstyle or color you're looking for, the more room for error. Also, if you're not willing to risk small mistakes, this probably isn't the place for you.
Second, give yourself enough time. I cannot say this enough, these are just students and they are practicing! They won't be able to work as fast as a stylist who has been doing something for many years. The more you rush them, the more likely they are to make a mistake; so do everyone a favor and leave yourself plenty of time.
Third, come armed with pictures of what you want. While this is good advice for any hairstylist, it's especially important here.
Fourth, don't be afraid to speak up. I'm normally not a confrontational person so this one was hard for me. But I learned the hard way, if something doesn't look or feel right, it's? important to speak up. That's? how the students learn and that's how you ensure you get the look you want.
Fifth, use a Groupon. While the school is considered "discounted" I still think the pricing is higher than the value you get. That's why I never come in without a Groupon.
Finally, if you like what the student did, tip them. They all work extremely hard to pay for school and the fact that it is a school doesn't absolve customers from tipping. Show appreciation where it is due. I also recommend finding a student you like and sticking with them till they graduate. Again, it limits the chance of mistakes and allows them to work on building client relationships.