Beyond the Classroom: Micah Caldwell
For Community Experience Program student Micah Caldwell, time spent at Pure Beauty Studio has become more than a work-based learning experience. It has become a place to build relationships, connect with others and be a part of a team.
“I like it here,” Caldwell said. “I like seeing my friends, seeing Ms. J, and spending time with Lindsey and the girls.”
Caldwell has been part of the Pure Beauty Studio team since November, just a few months after owner Lindsey Stefanak opened the salon. The partnership is a first for Stefanak, who said she has enjoyed welcoming Caldwell into the space.
Since then, Caldwell has become a familiar and joyful presence in the salon. He helps fold towels, wash color bowls, sweep, water plants and support the day-to-day rhythm of the studio.
“He does it all. It is a nice help for us,” Stefanak said.
Stefanak said Caldwell has shown an interest in the salon environment and the work happening around him. To help encourage that curiosity, she recently gave him a mannequin head, offering another way for him to practice and build his skills.
“He is very interested in what we are doing, and I want him to have something to learn on,” Stefanak said.
Through the experience, Caldwell said he has grown more comfortable communicating with others.
“I feel more confident working here,” Caldwell said. “I talk with a lot of people.”
Looking ahead, Caldwell said he is excited for summer and plans to spend time with his mother, attend his summer program and see his best friend, Jacob.
For Stefanak, the partnership has been a positive part of Pure Beauty Studio’s first year in business, and Caldwell’s presence has quickly become part of the salon’s story.