An Entrepreneurial Journey : The Transformative Power of a Single Decision
Pragnesh Shah
Freelancer Corporate Trainer | Machine Learning & Data Science Expert | Deep Learning Specialist | Former Founder
Twenty years ago, I embarked on my first entrepreneurial venture with a single student, offering home tuition in C Programming. Reflecting on that time, I realize how pivotal one decision was in shaping my future.
?From 1 to 500+ Students
?Had I declined that first student, I might never have ventured into coaching institutes. Initially, it took a year to grow from 1 to 10 students. Over the next three years, I expanded from 10 to 100, and within two more years, I had 300 students. By the seventh year, I was teaching 500+ students per semester (6 months) across four branches in Mumbai.
?What set my classes apart was the innovative idea of using laptops and computers for teaching Programming languages from C to Java, Python, C# .NET, and 8085 with kits - a novel approach in 2002-03. Most others relied on traditional marker and board methods. This differentiation was a game-changer, especially as my classes gained traction with over 50 students.
?The Power of Free Tuition
?An unexpected turning point came from a conversation with my friend, Dr. Samir. He suggested offering free C and C++ programming tuition to first-year engineering students. Initially skeptical, I questioned the value of offering free services. Dr. Samir explained how doctors often host free medical camps, not for profit, but to serve the community and promote their services.
He asked me a profound question: "If you're free after your 9-6 software job, what's the harm in offering free tuition from 7-9 pm? Your only investment is time. If students appreciate your teaching, they might join as paying students next semester or refer their friends." Inspired by his logic, I decided to take the plunge.
Offering free tuition led to my first 10 students. Their positive experiences brought in the next 20 students at 50% fees, and the following 30 students at full fees. These initial students became my most effective marketers, sharing their genuine appreciation for the coaching.
领英推è
Continuous Learning and Transformation
Today, as a freelance trainer in Data Science, AI, and ML, I continue to engage with over 1000+ participants annually. This dynamic learning environment allows me to not only share my expertise but also gain valuable insights and experiences from the diverse perspectives of the new generation of learners. Each interaction is a transformative opportunity, where I can learn and grow alongside the individuals I have the privilege of working with.
Have you taken a decision that transformed your life? Share your story and inspire others in the comments below!
?#EntrepreneurialJourney #SingleDecision #EducationEntrepreneur #CoachingInstitute
#ProgrammingTuition #InnovativeTeaching #CommunityService
#CalculatedRisk #LifeLessons #DataScience? #ArtificialIntelligence
#MachineLearning #ContinuousLearning #TransformativeOpportunities
#InspirationalStory #MotivationalArticle #EntrepreneurTips
#EducationInnovation #TeachingMethodologies #CareerTransformation
#LifeChangingDecisions
Building Strategic Alliances | Growth Centric | Always a student
8 个月Happy to learn about your journey...Pragnesh...!!