BUFFALO, N.Y. -- There's nothing quite like the close shave of going to the barber's to get your hair cut, and after the Buffalo School of Barbering opened in 2013 as part of the Buffalo Public Schools Adult Education Division, there are now more people in Western New York practicing the fading art.
"There hasn't been a barber school here in about 30 years. The full professional service that comes with barbering has went downhill and I wanted to see it get rejuvenated," said Thomas "Mr. Nick" Nichols.
Don Chamberlain graduated from the barbering program last week.
"I personally had a bad back injury and was out of commission for a while," said Chamberlain, who hurt his back at his job before he started barbering school. Even after several surgeries, his injury prevented him from being able to go back to his prior career.
"Fortunately, I had a great opportunity to come to this school and it absolutely changed my life," said Chamberlain.
Nichols says the program is open to the public, but there is a wait list.
"Anyone at any income level can get into this and make this profession a career. It is a very gratifying, rewarding career," said Nichols.
"Day one it's like being the new kid at school," said Chamberlain, looking back at what it was like starting the program. "You're nervous. You don't know what's going on. Me personally, I've never professionally cut hair."
"This school does a lot for the community. Anybody down at the City Mission that wants or needs a haircut or a wet shave, the bus comes and brings them in on Thursday mornings, and we take care of all the City Mission people and make them feel really great. Anybody that wants to come, call, make an appointment. Get a free haircut or free shave."
"It took me about eight months. But I'm proud to say I finished," said Chamberlain. He continued, "I do my state board November 16th. And then basically, I get my foot in the door and work my butt off to gain my clientele."
"He's a true example of what a dedicated student can go from and to," Nicholas said.