From Accountant of 17 Years to Medical Esthetician in Canada – Irina’s Heroic Story

At Anderson College, we are constantly amazed by the courage of our students, faculty, and staff. In December 2021 we ran a “My Courageous Moment” story-gathering campaign to celebrate our students, their strength, the moments that have defined their lives and the people who have motivated them to overcome and succeed.

In sharing our stories, we realize we are not alone and are often inspired to recognize, or to find, our own extraordinary courage. We hope the following story moves you, as it has our Anderson family.

What Made Me Leave My 17-Year Accounting Career and Start Over in Canada?

My name is Irina, I’m from Russia and arrived in Canada with my four children in May 2017. I have 17 years of experience working as an accountant. At that time, I had very limited English to communicate with others. I had waited a long time to get the results of my application to the Humanitarian and Compassionate Considerations (H&C) program. When I received my permanent residency (PR), it was the happiest moment of my life.

“I started looking for other career options that would give me joy – something that I had not tried before.”

When I started to settle in, I started to reflect on my life aspirations, and asking myself questions like, “Who am I now? Who am I for myself? For the kids?”. In this country, that I had moved to, I didn’t want to continue working as an accountant. Therefore, I started looking for other career options that would give me joy – something that I had not tried before.

How Did I Discover the Medical Esthetician Program?

While volunteering, a woman I worked with told me about the Medical Esthetician program at Anderson College. She shared information about the program, the profession, and the amazing instructors.

At the same time, I went through several major life changes:

• Starting college
  
• Navigating COVID-19 lockdowns
  
• Ending a relationship with an abusive partner
  

As a single mother of four amazing boys, I knew I needed to build a safer, happier life for them and for myself.

“Anderson College taught me to work as a team, and if I decide to study further, I will definitely study here.”

I have handled all the hardships that have come my way since the beginning of school. New, totally different students and instructors from different places of the world, different cultures and different languages; having experienced all this is amazing. I am so happy that I could become part of their lives as they became my family. Anderson College taught me to work as a team, and if I decide to study further, I will definitely study here. I really do not know if my story represents a courageous moment or not, but my children say that I am a real hero for them.

If you’re reading my story, I’d like to say that: if I could do it, you can do it too! Nothing is impossible if you wish for it and have faith. Also, believe in yourself!

Irina K.

Would you like to see if this program may be a fit for your interests and passions? Take 4 mins and complete our “Medical Esthetician Career Discovery Quiz”.

To learn more about our Medical Esthetician program or our 30+ leading-edge programs to help you take life to the next level of success, book a virtual appointment with our Admissions Team today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a Medical Esthetician do in Canada?

A Medical Esthetician provides advanced skincare treatments such as laser therapy, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and specialized facials under clinical or spa settings.

2. Is a Medical Esthetician program hard for beginners?

No. Anderson College teaches all foundational skills step-by-step. Even students with no beauty or science background can succeed.

3. How long is the Medical Esthetician diploma program?

Most programs range from 10–12 months, depending on schedule and campus.

4. Can immigrants or newcomers become Medical Estheticians in Canada?

Yes. Many students, like Irina, successfully transition into this field with the right training and hands-on support.

5. What careers can I pursue after graduation?

Graduates work in medical spas, dermatology clinics, laser centres, beauty clinics, and wellness facilities.