When Isabella Waldman’s parents were looking towards her future, they made a strategic decision to change from a smaller suburban school district to the City School District of Albany so Waldman could attend Albany High.
(pictured on right with Albany High teacher LaQuita Love on left) entered her ninth-grade year eager to experience the opportunities available at a large, diverse school. As a student with dyslexia, she found a supportive environment where teachers encouraged her to harness her potential using available tools and accommodations.
From a young age, Waldman was fascinated by hairdressing. She was thrilled to pursue her cosmetology license at Albany High without enrolling in an expensive external program. Initially, the coursework was daunting, requiring substantial book work to build foundational knowledge. However, under the guidance of Albany High teacher LaQuita Love, Waldman excelled in the salon. She not only mastered technical skills but also embraced her commitment to enhancing people's self-esteem and natural beauty.
Upon graduating from Albany High in 2024 with her license in cosmetology, Waldman began her professional career at Jean Paul in Stuyvesant Plaza and now works at Choices Hair Studio. An avid learner, Waldman continues to take additional classes on specialty topics, such as extensions, to expand her professional skill set.
Waldman's appreciation for artistry and making a positive impact stem from her upbringing. With one mother who worked professionally in photo and video production and another mother who spearheaded a non-profit to bridge the literacy gap with libraries and communities, Waldman was raised to live her life in a way that would lift others up.
Since graduation, she has achieved this in various ways. This fall, Waldman returned to Albany High as a guest speaker, teaching a workshop on nail extensions to Cosmetology II and Cosmetology III students. Beyond investing in future beauty professionals, she has used part of her earnings to purchase land for her birth parents in Guatemala. Meeting them for the first time in 2024 was an emotional moment.
“They were so proud of me and what I am doing. I feel like pushing myself to succeed is not only for my own well-being, but it is for them as well,” she said.
Waldman’s character, expertise and work ethic are making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of those around her. We are confident she will thrive in the beauty industry and wish her continued success as she advances her career.