The “My Why” Series
Every esthetician has a story—a moment when curiosity, passion, or personal experience leads them toward a career in skincare and the beauty and wellness industry. At New Age Spa Institute, we love sharing these journeys through our “My Why” blog series, where students and graduates explain what inspired them to pursue esthetics and how esthetics school helped shape their future.
Each story is unique, but they all share a common theme: discovering purpose through education, self-care, and helping others feel confident in their skin.
Today, we’re hearing from Ilianna, a part-time evening esthetics student at New Age Spa Institute who found her calling after realizing the traditional college path wasn’t the right fit. Her journey is one of reflection, courage, and discovering a passion that had been quietly present all along. On behalf of our NASI team, congratulations for not missing a single day and graduating with PERFECT ATTENDANCE!
Ilianna’s Journey From Uncertainty to Confidence at New Age Spa Institute
My name is Ilianna, and I’m twenty-two years old from Arlington Heights, Illinois. I attend NASI in Des Plaines, Illinois, where I take classes three nights a week in the part-time evening esthetics program.
I began my esthetics education at NASI in April 2025. Originally, I was supposed to graduate in April 2026, but thanks to some extra Saturday and Sunday classes, my classmates and I were expected to finish the program before the new year. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to accelerate my education and begin my career in esthetics sooner.
My class originally consisted of just two students—my classmate Daphne and me. Because our class was so small, we worked together to take additional weekend classes and eventually joined another group of students who had started earlier in the year. The flexibility and support from the school made a huge difference, and it’s something I really appreciate about attending NASI.
Family, Work, and Staying Close to Home
Family has always been at the center of my life. For most of my childhood, it was just my mom, my sister, and me, and we’ve always been incredibly close. They are truly my best friends.
Today, I live with my boyfriend of six years and our childhood dog. I currently work full-time while attending esthetics school, balancing two jobs. One is at a doggy daycare called Kamp K-9, and the other is working with my mom as the shampoo assistant at her salon suite. I used to work at the doggy daycare full time, but then my mom needed me when she moved her business.
For me, family comes first!
I’ve always loved working with animals and still dog-sit whenever I can. But working alongside my mom in the salon environment showed me how exciting and fulfilling a career in the beauty industry could be.
Realizing the Traditional College Path Wasn’t for Me
After graduating high school in 2021, I enrolled at Illinois State University in Bloomington-Normal. My sister attended the same school, and because I prefer being close to family, it felt like the most comfortable option.
I initially majored in psychology, later switching to art history, and even considered other fields like geology, math, criminal justice, political science, and education. I was interested in many subjects, but I never felt fully connected to any of them.
Over time, I became increasingly stressed, anxious, and unhappy at school. I didn’t feel like I belonged, and despite staying nearly three years, I knew deep down that something wasn’t right for me.
Eventually, after many conversations with family and close friends, I made the difficult decision to withdraw from university in 2024. At first, I worried that leaving college meant I was giving up—but in reality, it was the moment I finally started listening to myself.
I gave myself an entire year to think about my future, work, and explore different possibilities before making another big decision.
Discovering a Passion for Esthetics
During that year, I started noticing that people I knew were working in the beauty and wellness industry. Something about it sparked my interest immediately. It felt like a lightbulb turning on in my mind.
Looking back, it made perfect sense.
My mom is a cosmetologist, so I grew up around salons and the beauty world. As a child, I loved doing my hair and nails, and I even remember doing my third-grade teacher’s nails after school.
In middle school, I became fascinated with waxing, threading, and makeup, especially special effects and Halloween makeup. By high school, my interest shifted more toward skincare and everyday beauty.
Even though the passion had always been there, it wasn’t until I took time away from college that I truly realized esthetics could be my career path.
After a year of reflection and research, I visited New Age Spa Institute—and soon after, I enrolled.
My Personal Skincare Journey
Another reason I felt drawn toward esthetics was my own skincare journey.
Growing up, I didn’t struggle with severe acne, but I had a habit of picking at my skin, especially during high school. Sometimes my skin would become so irritated that I barely recognized myself in the mirror. It made me extremely self-conscious.
Eventually, after graduating high school, I decided to change my habits. I created a simple skincare routine with just three or four products and made a promise to myself to stop picking my skin.
Within a few months, I saw my skin begin to clear, and it was incredibly rewarding. That experience showed me how powerful consistent skincare and healthy habits can be—not only for your skin, but for your confidence.
My Favorite Treatments at Esthetics School
One of my favorite treatments to perform at New Age Spa Institute is the custom facial.
I love this treatment because every facial is different. There are so many combinations of exfoliation methods, masks, serums, and modalities that each service becomes unique for the client.
I especially enjoy performing extractions and high frequency, but my absolute favorite part of the facial is the facial massage. When a client becomes so relaxed that they fall asleep during the massage, it feels like earning a gold star. I get into a flow during the massage, almost like a trance, and it’s incredibly satisfying to know the client is experiencing that same relaxation.
My Favorite Treatment to Receive
While I love facials, my favorite treatment to receive at school is the herbology body treatment.
If my entire body can be treated instead of just my face, I’m always excited. My skin often feels dry and dull, and this treatment leaves it feeling soft, hydrated, and glowing. It’s amazing how much confidence a treatment like that can give you.
Body care is something we often forget about, so having someone take the time to pamper and care for your skin from head to toe is truly special.
Looking Ahead to My Career as an Esthetician
After graduating from New Age Spa Institute, I plan to begin my career working at a spa that offers a variety of services.
I’m still exploring what my specific niche might be. I genuinely enjoy both relaxing spa treatments and more clinical skincare services, and I’m open to discovering where my strengths lead me.
Eventually, my long-term goal is to become self-employed and run my own business. Before that, I want to gain experience working in the industry, learning from other professionals, and building a loyal clientele.
Knowing I Chose the Right Path
When my first class started at NASI, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I had never attended a specialized esthetics school before.
But by the end of the first day, I knew I had made the right choice.
Time at school has flown by because I truly enjoy what I’m learning. I love studying skin science, ingredients, and skincare chemistry, but what’s even more rewarding is applying that knowledge during treatments and seeing real results for clients.
My goal as an esthetician is simple: to help people feel confident in their own skin.
I know what it feels like to want to hide behind a mask or feel uncomfortable with your appearance. Through skincare and education, I want to help others feel proud of their skin and comfortable being themselves.
Ready to Find Your Own Why?
Every esthetician’s journey starts somewhere. If Ilianna’s story resonates with you, it might be time to explore your own path into the beauty and wellness industry.
Learn more about becoming a licensed esthetician:
https://newagespainstitute.com/programs/esthetician-program/
Curious about what makes New Age Spa Institute stand out as an internationally recognized esthetics school?
Discover how CIDESCO accreditation sets NASI apart:
https://newagespainstitute.com/cidesco/
Follow along for more student stories and inspiration.
