K.I.
Only wanted to stop by and say (as a person w/thick, thick, thick wavy hair) please do not let them cut it short around the ears...you know big bangs? Kinda like a mullet? I had that haircut as a child and my hair turned so incredibly curly and icky around my ears...still this way today! The longer their hair is the less curly it might get...
Your best bet would be to get it layered (but not so short they cant put it in a pony tail) with big layers....do your best to express your fears to the hairstylists...and ask the receptionist who is the best w/thick wavy hair.
Good Luck!