Success Stories- What our Students Say

“I loved Paragon. I started working full time the day after I graduated and I felt fully prepared. I felt like Paragon really, really wanted me to succeed and that they very much cared about my success. The instructors are caring, support staff wonderful. I couldn't think of anything I would change…I love you guys.”

-Debra V., Career Styling Program

“Paragon is the # 1 place to go for grooming! I loved how from day 1 you were part of a team. They showed pros and cons to things most groomers would have never thought about. When I graduated I knew that I could get a job at any grooming salon… I owe my career to Paragon! Thanks Bunches”

-Molly G., Career Styling Program

“Even three years after my graduation, there isn’t one day that goes by that I don’t thank you for the skills I learned from you. If you ever get down about the ho-hum of teaching crazy new groomers who don’t know a topknot from an anal gland, please remember that you are changing lives, giving reputation to an industry and putting great groomers out there in the market. You are all amazing.”

-Carol V., Career Styling Program

“I had earned a living as a waitress for 25 years. Talk about burnout! This year, I own my own business, set my own hours and truly enjoy helping out my furry friends.”

Toni K., Career Styling Program

“The best thing I ever did. I wish I had done it long ago… [The training is] my security blanket during mergers, downsizing, etc., in a volatile corporate world.”

-Rita W., Career Styling Program

To Everyone at Paragon:

“I am very thankful for all of the memories I was able to have during the time I’ve been here. I am happy that I have finally discovered my calling in life and delighted to know that I have made many friends along the way. As I part ways from this chapter of my life, I am certain that I have been fully prepared in all aspects; most importantly confidence, patience and hands on experience. So I just want to take the time to thank everyone for helping me get steered into the right direction. There were the occasional bumps here and there but I know that every one that leaves will be stronger and more mature individual!”

~ Liz M. Career Styling Program

“I was enrolled in the 600 hour program at the Paragon School of Pet Grooming during the winter of 2010 and was thrilled with the instruction I received. When I arrived, I immediately knew that I had chosen the best school for my training. The entire staff made me feel welcomed and their support was always present. I receive very precise, thoroughly explained and professional grooming instruction during my classes from all the talented instructors. It was a lot of hard work, to be sure, and quite a lot of fun! I felt that I graduated with a very good understanding of most grooming styles, a trained eye for those styles and exceptional handling techniques for even the most difficult of dogs. The instruction from Paragon, along with Ms. Verplank’s book Notes From the Grooming Table, provided me with the skills to start a very successful grooming shop out of my home. My clients have been thrilled with the general handling and professional styling of their pups. My retention rate has been approximately 98%, with lots of referrals phoning in each week for an appointment. I cannot recommend the Paragon School of Pet Grooming highly enough.”

~ Kathy K. Career Styling Program

“I was a student 10 years ago. I just wanted to say that I’ve been grooming that long. I left Petsmart and have been on my own. I’m buying the salon I work now in Andover, Minnesota and wanted to say thanks. I was a big bulldog fanatic when I was in school there (I had none). I have had 6 since (4 now). Thanks for starting me out!”

~ Megan B. Fast Track Training

“I loved coming here and all of the instructors were great! I will hold a special place in my heart for the school and the instructors who have made things so wonderful. I find that my frustrations hold me back and while I was here, I struggled. But I can only become better at something that is so new to me. Thank you all very much!”

-Johni D., Fast Track Training

“My schooling here at Paragon has been nothing short of sheer excellence. I am very impressed with the overall quality of the school and the instructors. I have made a lot of new friends and gained extensive knowledge. I will miss everyone very much!

The Instructors overall were great. I wish I lived closer so I could learn more. I will take my experiences from Paragon everywhere I go!”

-Carrie R., Fast Track Training

“The whole staff was very easy to get along with. They made it easy to ask questions without making you feel stupid if you asked too many. Their comments were constructive and not demeaning. I really enjoyed my time here.”

-Heather P., Fast Track Training

“Attending this school had reaffirmed my choice of careers. I have felt at home here and, I hope, have made some lifelong friends. The time spent here has not be long enough. With all that I have learned here, I leave wanting, no, needing to learn more. Thank you all for your patience, your guidance, your instruction and your friendship. I will miss you all.”

-Dana F., Fast Track Training

“I felt that the training was excellent. The Instructors really worked with me and showed me the correct way to do things. I had five different thoughts on how to do the same thing. So it is easier for me to find out what methods would work best for me. Overall I think it was a great experience. Thank you for teaching me so much in so little time.”

-Kim K., Fast Track Training

“I had an excellent time here. I learned a great deal of knowledge. I really liked all the instructors and found everyone quite helpful. I am going to miss being here and the safety I felt while being here and grooming….”

-Lucy L., Fast Track Training

“I’ve learned lots. I love it here! I have learned lots of new techniques; my scissoring skills have grown. Also, not only have we learned grooming skills, but the whys and how things are done. I have also gotten better with breed recognition and AKC standards which is great. Best of all the instructors are wonderful. We could not have done any of this without them! I will miss them all!”

-Jackie V., Fast Track Training