Meet Your Admissions Representative

Renee Abajian

Born and raised in a suburb of Chicago, Renee always had a passion for learning about people and helping others. She attended Northern Illinois University to study Sociology and following college, Renee entered the hospitality industry. The following sixteen years were spent in restaurant management and development.

It was through a friend who practiced massage that Renee began her interest in the field. After researching schools,  Renee enrolled at The Soma Institute in July of 2001. Upon graduation, Renee accepted a position as an Admissions Representative with Soma.

With first hand knowledge of the program, Renee is able to provide guidance and insight to future clinical massage therapists. Her favorite part of admitting students is watching them as graduates accept their diplomas at Graduation. Most importantly, she enjoys helping students learn to help others.

Michelle Dahmer

Born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Michelle has a Bachelors degree from Illinois State University in Acting and Directing as well as a graduate degree from The American Repertory Theater Institute at Harvard University. After being away from Chicago for 10 years to work as an actress in New York, Boston and France, Michelle is happy to finally be back in her home town of Chicago.

As someone with experience in the massage therapy industry, Michelle understands the challenges associated with the field and the knowledge required to make a real difference in the lives of others. Furthermore, with experience in educational counseling, Michelle has helped students of all backgrounds identify and achieve their career goals.

Her favorite part of admitting students to Soma is knowing that they are getting the best and most comprehensive massage education out there today.