At the New Age Spa Institute, our students come from all walks of life, bringing their stories, struggles, and dreams with them. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Ji, a student whose life chapters include fashion design, motherhood, and now—a bold new step into the world of esthetics.
“I’m Ji. I live in Lincolnshire. And I’m doing this for me.”
Ji was born in South Korea and now calls Lincolnshire, IL home. Before esthetics, she spent over a decade thriving in the fashion industry. “I worked for Neiman Marcus Group, collaborated with luxury brands, ran fashion shows, and helped clients feel their best in clothing,” she shares. “Life felt like a party back then!”
But life evolved. Ji stepped away from fashion after getting married and having her son. She chose to be a full-time caregiver—dedicating ten beautiful years to family life.
Still, something stirred beneath the surface. “As my son grew more independent, I started looking in the mirror,” Ji recalls. “I noticed my skin was sagging, dry, dull… so I began learning how to care for it. That’s when it hit me—I love this. Skincare brings me joy.”
What started as a self-care routine turned into a spark. That spark became a calling.
From Glow-Up to Grown-Up Goals
Ji started researching esthetics schools. She knew she wanted a strong Clinical Esthetics program—but something more, too.
“I chose NASI because the reviews were amazing—even on Reddit! But once I started, I discovered I loved more than just clinical work. I love giving facial massages. When clients relax—or even fall asleep—I know I’ve made a difference.”
Now a proud NASI student, Ji combines her background in fashion, her natural eye for aesthetics, and her compassionate heart into every treatment.
“This time, I’m building something for me.”
What’s next for Ji? She has a clear vision:
- Work in a medical spa to sharpen her skills
- Partner with her friend—a Nurse Practitioner—to open a Med Spa that merges high-end treatments with holistic care
“My dream is to create a place where clients feel welcomed, seen, and transformed. I’ve been the woman who put herself last. Now, I want to help others put themselves first.”
Her favorite treatment to receive? Light chemical peels. “It’s like a reset button for my skin. It softens lines, fades spots, and makes me feel bright again.”
NASI: A Home for Dreamers & Doers
Ji is one of many NASI students rewriting their story, one chapter at a time. Whether you’re coming from fashion, healthcare, tech—or a decade of dedicated parenting—we welcome you to begin again, beautifully.
Visit www.newagespainstitute.com to learn more or call us at 847-759-0900 to speak with our admissions team. Schedule an open house tour today!
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What community areas does The New Age Spa Institute serve?
The New Age Spa Institute is located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago and generally serves the North and Northwest suburbs. Serving the Chicagoland area, students drive from Barrington, IL – Arlington Heights, IL – Rockford, IL – St. Charles, IL – Plainfield, IL – Elgin, IL– Gurnee, IL – Lindenhurst, IL and beyond Chicagoland!
