A junior at Cuyahoga Heights High School, Samantha Vallee has a photo of herself in kindergarten proudly holding a sign that reads:  “When I grow up, I want to do hair!” Today she  is thriving in the Cosmetology program at the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center (CVCC) under the guidance of her instructor, Melissa Fox. 

Fox praises Samantha as "a team player, a class leader, and a dedicated hard worker." These qualities earned her recognition in the CVCC’s Student Connection for January 2025.

Samantha appreciates how being enrolled at the CVCC has helped her grow and believe in her potential in such a short time. She also values the many opportunities available, such as participating in SkillsUSA competitions

After high school, Samantha plans to continue her cosmetology education and is also possibly explore fashion as well as sewing – a passion she developed after learning how to hand-sew from her father. 

One of her favorite experiences has been attending the Brecksville-Broadview Heights Preschool Moms Club Breakfast with Santa in December, where her class offered hair tinsel and nail painting as a fundraiser. "The kids were so excited and couldn't sit still  – it was so fun," she said. 

Outside of CVCC, Samantha is taking college credit plus classes and working part-time. She also loves spending time with her friends and sewing. Her advice to future CVCC students: take full advantage of every opportunity. “As someone who was initially nervous about starting at a new school, I soon found that there was no need to worry. Everyone here wants you to succeed and will help you do so," she said.