As the senior class of 2026 wraps up their last semester at Westside High School, Wired is highlighting some seniors and their various post-graduate plans. Cali Kisicki is planning on attending cosmetology school after she graduates in the spring.
Everyone has their own unique passions and strengths. For Cali, aesthetics and creativity has always been an interest and part of who she is.
“I’ve always been a very creative, hands-on person, and I knew I wanted a career where I could work closely with people while also expressing myself,” Cali says. “Beauty has been something I’ve gravitated toward for as long as I can remember, whether that was experimenting with my hair, learning makeup on my own, or just loving creative outlets. Cosmetology felt like a path that genuinely fits who I am and the kind of future I want to build.”
The cosmetology application process varies significantly from the traditional college process. For Cali, this was preferred. She said, “it felt very real and practical, which helped confirm that this was the right choice for me.”
“[The application process] involves touring schools, meeting instructors, learning about licensing requirements, and understanding the hands-on structure of the program.” Cali explained.
The cosmetology program Cali will be attending is structured to take around a year to complete. According to Cali, the structure “includes working with real clients in a clinic setting, giving students real world experiences while still learning and being guided by instructors.”
Her plans after becoming licensed and finishing cosmetology school are to hopefully work in a salon where she can continue to work and build her skills, specializing more towards hair.
“Long term, I’d love to specialize and create a career that allows me to support myself while doing something I genuinely enjoy. I also want to create an environment where people feel confident and taken care of,” Cali said.
