Austin Cosmetology Institute (ACI)

To be clear I didn't go into Aci for schooling, I combed the area online to find a beauty school for the inexpensive hair care that I need at this time. AT ACI I FOUND JUST WHAT I NEEDED! I had been to a few other schools and was not happy with their service. Specifically students being tooooo slow in doing your hair and not being totally on point with what you're needing done or I guess how to do it. At one school I walked out after 4 hours with hair that I had to go home and redo. I read a couple of good reviews for ACI and they are much closer to me so I decided to try them, that was at least 6 months ago and I now consider it my salon. A student is chosen that is known is at the level to know how to deliver the service and this is done by the VERY HANDS ON owner (and one of the instructors) of the school. The progress of the student is checked regularly and again in a VERY HANDS ON fashion if there is any need for help/correction it is seen and done immediately. And, there is a constant checking with you as the client and a ""we aim to please fashion."" As well, I have seen students working diligently around me that are from all ethnic backgrounds, which leads me to believe ACI gives well rounded instruction and that there is a ease of interaction regardless of race. Besides, just sitting there and having conversation is a hoot!! ;) more

To say that ACI is Austin's ""premiere"" beauty school is truly a farce! This is by far THE worst beauty school I've ever seen or experienced. Not only was the school filthy, the owner/instructors don't seem to have a grasp on what customer service is really about. Their inexperience as business owners and instructors is really obvious. The only thing that the business owners seem to be good at is collecting their overpriced tuition and sitting back watching T.V. while you teach yourself. It's a shame that they don't seem to have theirs hearts in the business to take the time to conduct classes and give the students the education they paid for. Their careless and rude attitudes towards customers and students is sickening. I would avoid this school if you're really serious about making a career in the beauty industry. Your money will be wasted and your learning experience will suffer. They certainly don't appreciate the business that they do recieve, especially from the Asian community. I witnessed on too many occasions one or both owners being overtly rude to customers or students beacuse they didn't speak the language well. Instead of trying to help or explain things they would overreact and sometimes raise their voices. Being tactful and professional doesn't seem to compute for these business owners! It's a shame that they are allowed to conduct business and continue to rip off and take advantage of customers. If you're seriously thinking about a career in the beauty industry I would certainly consider another school. After having a horrific experience at this school I really regret not going to one of the other more professional schools. There are TWO other school that are much better than this one right down the street. If you're concerned about spending the money it is worth every penny to have a better experience at another school. Atleast you'll get an education and have a more pleasant experience at one of the other schools down the street. Pros: can't say that there is anything good about this place except Pho Hoang is next door Cons: No professionalism, overpriced for no class or instruction, rude, filthy classrooms! more