I just had my first experience at the Aveda Institute and I loved loved loved it! Ambience and decor are warm and professional, but what I enjoyed very much is the customer service. I had my hair cut by Dona, a student that graduates in December (Master level - $18). She's such a pleasant person to interact with. As she has been in the program for almost a year, she had no problem giving me advice on what style looks good on me. In the end, it was a little bit shorter than we discussed, and the instructor did have to go over it and make a few adjustments, but even without those adjustments my hair would still look great. And yes, if you have any concerns, definitely voice it out to your hairdresser and the instructor, they would make sure you're happy with your end result. I'll definitely come back!