On February 25, 2026,
Miami Barber Institute will partner with
Miami Dade College for a Polish and Prep event during Career and Transfer Week at the Wolfson Campus. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Building 3 Breezeway and Room 3130.
The goal is simple. Help students and community members feel prepared for the next step in their careers.
The event brings together practical support in one place. Attendees will have access to free professional haircuts, resume and LinkedIn profile workshops, interview skills sessions, free LinkedIn headshots, and self-advocacy resources. Each element is designed to support real career readiness, not just theory.
A key part of the event is the Free Haircuts Program provided by Miami Barber Institute students. The program allows barber students to work with real clients while giving back to the community.
Education Connected to the Community
Luis Castillo, President and Co-owner of Miami Barber Institute, says the event reflects how education should work when it is tied to real needs.
“This collaboration with Miami Dade College is about showing up for the community,” said Castillo. “Our students are learning a skilled trade, but they are also learning responsibility and service. Events like “Polish and Prep” connect training with purpose.”
Castillo explained that barber education is not separate from workforce development.
“Skilled trades are part of the career conversation. When our students participate in an event like this, they are contributing to workforce readiness while building their own confidence and experience.”
Why Free Haircuts Matter
For Sergio Wong, Campus Director of Miami Barber Institute, the
Free Haircuts Program plays an important role in both student training and community support.
“A professional appearance can make a difference when someone is preparing for an interview or updating their LinkedIn profile,” Wong said. “A haircut may seem simple, but it helps people feel more confident walking into career-focused spaces.”
Wong also emphasized what students gain from participating.
“Our students learn how to work with different people, manage time, and represent Miami Barber Institute in a professional setting. This is real experience that prepares them for what comes after graduation.”
A Shared Career Readiness Effort
In addition to free haircuts, the event includes resume and LinkedIn workshops with MDC Works, interview skills support through Continuing Education, self-advocacy resources with ACCESS MEED, and free professional headshots for LinkedIn profiles.
Together, these services give students and job seekers tools they can use immediately. The event is open to Miami Dade College students and members of the surrounding community.
An Opportunity for Miami Barber Institute Students
Miami Barber Institute students who want to participate in the event are encouraged to connect with Student Services. Students can speak directly with Sofia in Student Services to learn how to get involved, understand the day’s expectations, and prepare for participation. Taking part in the event allows students to gain hands-on experience, represent the institute, and support the community in a meaningful way.
Supporting Students Beyond the Classroom
The Polish and Prep event reflects a shared commitment between Miami Barber Institute and Miami Dade College to support students beyond the classroom. By combining career services, personal presentation support, and hands-on learning, the event helps students take practical steps toward their goals.
As Castillo noted, “When students feel prepared, they move forward with more confidence. That is what this event is about.”
The Polish and Prep event is one day, but the impact reaches further. It supports students, strengthens community connections, and gives barber students the opportunity to learn by doing.
