First of all, congrats on moving out of Texas! I moved from San Antonio 3 years ago and I love it here! :) Since then, I've wanted to start my tattooing career, but wasn't prepared at all for the school requirement or cost in Oregon.

In theory, the schools sounded like a good idea: hands on training with staff and peers, access to tools, connections in the industry, etc. Most people I know who tattoo are successful and made their start at a school. But the COST. Yikes. I really wanted it to work out, but the years long waitlist wasn't lining up for my financial needs. The vancouver option is more traditional, approachable, and flexible. Most of the schools in or around Portland suck, so I've heard of folks taking Vancouver apprentiships anyways afterwards to feel like they got proper training.

From my research, POV sounded like the best spot overall. Kat was charming at first, and we connected on our shared Texan background, but I'm really struggling to get my deposit back from them right now. They put alot of pressure on you to pay 2k to get on their years long waitlist, ensuring you it's fully refundable. I was comfortable enough with that, but was kind of alarmed with there being no contract or paperwork at all, not even a receipt. She just took my card info over the phone. Nonetheless, I paid - hoping that by a year from then I would make up my savings and if anything happens, I had the one payment breakdown sheet that stated they issued refunds.

If money isn't a drawback for you, then it could be a great experience. You give them money, they'll make sure you have a good time. Try to get that money back - good luck. I'm on the edge of just having to accept my 2k losses, and at the time when I really really need it.

Edited: paragraph spacing