Q. What were the significant hurdles you encountered on your journey?
Being a class owner, the primary challenge lies in attracting students. Fortunately, with the grace of divine providence, I possess a knack for infusing humour into my lectures, turning them into a source of enjoyment for my students. This resulted in a steady influx of new students joining our classes. My secret? Beginning each class with a smile and maintaining that positive energy throughout has been my guiding principle throughout my career
In the initial phase, I toiled tirelessly to establish my class, conducting sessions from 5:45 am to 9:50 pm, six days a week, and even dedicating half-days on Sundays, for nearly five years. As momentum grew, I made a prudent adjustment to my schedule, discontinuing early morning and Sunday lectures. This not only prevented burnout but also significantly bolstered productivity.
Q. Our viewers of Klass Buzz would like to like to know your journey?
My coaching journey commenced in May 1985, marked by a setback in an interview at Podar College. As a Chartered Accountant, uncertainty clouded my next move. Opting for a public speaking course proved transformative, not only bolstering my confidence but also leading to a successful interview in November of the same year, securing a teaching position at Podar College.
Following three years, I started teaching at Expert Classes. It was here that I honed my instructional skills, mastering the art of engaging and captivating students. Teaching at several other institutions followed, culminating in the establishment of my own classes in Andheri, beginning in a rented space. Our classes garnered renown, particularly in the Degree section, boasting top-ranking students in university exams.
Q. Could you share the timeline it took to expand and develop your classes?
Upon initiating my coaching centre in 1996, I already held a reputation from teaching in other institutions. This positive standing naturally attracted students. I commenced in a rented space and within two years, I purchased that space and the adjacent one. Since then, I’ve maintained and built upon what I initially established. Throughout this growth, I experimented with various operational models. At one juncture, I attempted not teaching in all batches, but I found it diminished the distinctive essence our institute was renowned for. Consequently, I struck a balance by personally instructing some batches while maintaining a close connection with those I wasn’t directly involved in. This approach ensured we preserved our esteemed reputation.”
Q. What are the potential risks and opportunities that come with the implementation of the NEP?
As an entrepreneur, I firmly believe that there is no place for fear. While we may encounter shifts in policies, tax regulations, and syllabus alterations, it is crucial to learn how to adapt to these evolving landscapes. With the introduction of the NEP, the boundaries have blurred, providing class owners with the ability to reach students all across India.
The concern that coaching classes might become obsolete due to the NEP is unwarranted. I hold the belief that parents will continue to enroll their children in in coaching until the 12th grade, as they themselves may be uncertain about the implications of the NEP. By seizing the opportunities presented by the NEP, our student count could potentially increase tenfold. This is indeed an exciting phase for us in the coaching industry!”