A clear sighted path

Warwick Valley High School senior Savannah Acosta is taking advantage of the school’s cosmetology program, and she loves it.

A career in cosmetology, however, is not her final goal.

Savannah has already been accepted at SUNY Oswego. Her plan is to major in political science and government and then go to law school. She plans to continue cosmetology after high school to make money that will help pay for her education.

Savannah started in the cosmetology program as a junior. She attends the program half the day on A and E days and for two periods on the other days.

“I considered going to CTEC (at Orange-Ulster BOCES), but I thought that this suited me way better,” Acosta said. “This was the best decision I’ve ever made. I love the people (in the program). We’re very supportive of each other and we easily work together.”

“I feel it’s like my therapeutic way of dealing with my problems,” Acosta said. “I find it so cool because everyone has a different hair texture and pattern.”

She especially enjoys working at the Wildcut Salon, which is open to the public on some Wednesdays, because she gets to work with people from outside the school.

The next date open to the public is March 25.

“I’m going to miss Savannah,” WVHS cosmetology teacher Kathleen Bettello said. “She’s always coming to the open house salon, where everyone gets a customer. I love the fact that when somebody comes in, Savannah doesn’t really need me. She feels very confident in what she’s doing. By the time I go over to help her, she’s almost done with the whole thing.”

Because of her interest in the law, Savannah also enjoys participating in Mock Trial at WVHS. Her mother is a court stenographer. Savannah found that seeing her mom working on courtroom activities was fascinating.

“I can’t say enough good things about Savannah,’’ Bettello said. “She’s my right hand. I don’t even have to ask her to do something, she’s already doing it. She’s really eager to learn. She’s a great student and a great young lady. She helps other students out, too."