“I’ve always loved working with hair,” says Cuyahoga Heights High School junior Karissa Tritsarolis. “Growing up, I was constantly doing my mom’s hair, and I dye and style my own hair all the time. Hair and nails have been a passion of mine for a long time, so when the opportunity to attend the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center (CVCC) became available, this felt like the perfect step toward learning more and possibly building a career in the field.” Enrolled in her first year in the Cosmetology program, she is the featured CHHS student in the CVCC’s Student Connection for February 2026.
One of Tritsarolis’ favorite parts of the program has been meeting new people from other school districts – she’s the only Cuyahoga Heights student in her class – along with learning new techniques, such as color theory, proper curling methods, and how to do a professional blowout. “I’ve already learned so much about hair and nails,” she said. “Tritsarolis especially appreciates learning from her teacher Melissa Fox. “She has so much knowledge and experience, but she’s also incredibly understanding. If you’re having a hard day, she’s someone you can really talk to.”
After high school, Karissa is considering a career in the hair and nail industry, but she’s also interested in becoming an elementary school teacher, possibly in art or a related subject. Either way, she sees clear connections to both paths, noting that concepts like color theory apply to cosmetology as well as teaching. No matter where she ends up, Tritsarolis says she values the confidence and joy that come from making people feel good about themselves. She also appreciates knowing she can always do hair and nails as a side career, regardless of her long-term career choice.
Outside the classroom, Tritsarolis makes and sells press-on nails, plays the piano, participates in the Scarlet Angels and color guard at Cuyahoga Heights High School, as well as draws, reads, and listens to music. She also hopes to become more involved in theater in the future.
When asked what advice she would give students considering CVCC, Tritsarolis said, “Make sure you choose a program that truly interests you, because you do have to put in the work. But if it does interest you, don’t pass up this opportunity. CVCC has
taught me so much about cosmetology, but even more than that, it’s shown me how many opportunities are out there – both in this field and beyond. I’m learning so many life skills.”