Alumni spotlight is on Mona Foroutani! Mona describes how her passion to help others inspired her to pursue an esthetics education and open MonEli Spa. She also shares some words of motivation for those working towards, or considering, a beauty education.
- What specialty(s) did you study during your time at CV? I studied Esthetics but I learned so much more than I imagined I would. Aside from gaining an in-depth understanding of how the skin works and responds to formulas and treatment methods, I came away with a whole-body, holistic approach to skincare, as well as the skills to start, manage and scale my own business.
- What year did you graduate? I graduated in 2017 with an Honors Diploma, which means considerably more than just top grades! I worked for and earned extra certifications in Laser Hair Removal & Safety, Microdermabrasion, and Chemical Peels.
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What are you doing now? I own and operate my holistic, cozy, relaxing, and safe spa in the Hudson Valley in New York! It’s called MonEli Spa and we’re located at 792 County Route 1, Pine Island, NY, 10969. (845)772-1386.
- What was your journey like to get to your current role? It was hard work! But I knew it would be, and I was prepared to work hard. I think it’s important to set goals and work towards them, and to have confidence in yourself that you will succeed.
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What was your favorite part about your time as a CV student? My favorite time at school was when we got to practice our skills on real clients. I knew I was in the right profession each time I was with a guest and helped them with their skincare needs. The feeling that I’m helping someone – even today – makes all the hard work worthwhile.
I also want to add that the teachers and administrators at CV are exceptional. They taught me so much and are a huge part of the experience at the school. I even had the privilege of time with Maria Valmy, President at Christine Valmy (and daughter of Christine Valmy), who is passionate about her work and the industry, and very involved with students. - What is something you learned during your time at CV that has stuck with you today? The importance of looking at the whole body, including our mindset, when we consider skincare. We cannot treat the skin without addressing both the body’s internal state and external stressors. Diet, sleep, stress, hydration, hormone levels, (and more) all have a direct effect on the health of our skin. My time at CV also reaffirmed what I already knew: Taking care of our skin is very important. Our face is the first thing people notice when they meet us, and the first part of ourselves we see when we wake in the morning. We use it to communicate and present ourselves to others while building a connection with them. Looking into the mirror and seeing a shiny, healthy complexion builds confidence within us and brings out our natural smile. When we’re satisfied with ourselves, we love ourselves more, and can better show love to others.
- Do you have any advice for someone who is considering a beauty education? Only pursue this profession if you truly have a passion for wanting to help others reach their beauty goals. I’ve always believed that anyone can learn how to do anything with the right training, but the best estheticians are the ones that hone their skills and couple them with passion.
- Do you have any wise words for students who are about to graduate and look for their first professional job in the industry? Believe in yourself! I think it’s very important that new graduates strive to be the best they can be at what they do and to always remember why they went into the beauty industry in the first place. Most estheticians become estheticians because they want to help others, and if that’s truly your mission, and you have the skills, then believe in yourself and you will have great success.
- What CV product is always in your inventory or on your shelf? Why? I love to use Valte Hydration Mask for my clients…and myself. Masks can often cause dryness, and sensitivity because there is no oxygen back and forth, but Valte hydrates the skin and gives it a beautiful, velvety look and feel. I also usually use Neem Purifying Cleanser at home, because I love how it gives my skin a soft, clean and fresh look.
Our ultimate goal is to provide our students with a strong foundation upon which to grow a flourishing career. Marina Valmy, our leader, calls this a “root system,” and it’s why our success as educators is embodied by the successes of our alumni. To celebrate this, we feature the achievements of our fabulous graduates in our Alumni Spotlight series. Each Spotlight showcases an interview with a Christine Valmy graduate about their educational and professional journeys.
As part of our educational philosophy, we aim to provide thought leadership on topics relevant to industry professionals and those with a passion for beauty. Click here to visit our Educated Insights homepage to learn trends, tutorials, industry news, and tips for at-home care and spa treatments.
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