Following in her Grandma’s Footsteps

“It gives me more time to learn while I am in high school. Then once I get out into the real world, I won’t have to learn and make more mistakes than I would have if I didn’t do this program now.”

Gabby DeFuentes is no stranger to a salon environment. The Crescent High School senior grew up in her grandma’s beauty shop, recalling days spent playing with her cousins and washing their hair. That experience has helped shape her career goals. 

After always being interested in cosmetology, DeFuentes decided her sophomore year that it was the industry she wanted to pursue. She then started in the Cosmetology program at Francis Tuttle as a junior. 

One aspect of working in a salon that DeFuentes enjoys is the overall environment and the conversations that happen there. When it comes to the technical skills required for her future career, she most enjoys doing hair color and highlights.  

Once DeFuentes finishes at Francis Tuttle, she plans to find a spot where she can focus on building her clientele. Her long-term goal is to take over her grandma’s Crescent-based salon, Lily’s Hair Design, and to also open a location in Oklahoma City. That way, she can serve clients in both areas. 

DeFuentes has had the opportunity to learn about the industry from her grandma and Francis Tuttle instructors. Over the summer, DeFuentes did hair for a few clients with the help of her grandma, and she said they also discussed aspects such as prioritizing her time and booking appointments. At Francis Tuttle, DeFuentes has continued to embrace those hands-on learning opportunities and learned time management skills. 

“It gives me more time to learn while I am in high school,” DeFuentes said. “Then once I get out into the real world, I won’t have to learn and make more mistakes than I would have if I didn’t do this program now.” 

For other students considering Francis Tuttle, DeFuentes encourages them to pursue the programs that interest them, even if it means stepping outside of their comfort zones. 

“You have to step out of your boundaries, and if it’s something that you’re not used to, you definitely should go for it,” she said.