Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shannan Schimmelmann, Co-Owner of Prep Academy Tutors of Interior British Columbia, located in Kelowna, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Prep Academy Tutors of Interior BC provides one-to-one and small-group tutoring, academic support, and career coaching. We provide tutoring to students aged 4-20 across all grade levels and subjects. We recruit certified teachers and specialists to join our team of educators. We deliver academic coaching to students that are seeking guidance on a specific career path, entrance exam preparation, student and parent workshops, resume coaching, etc.
Tell us about yourself
I am thrilled to be part of the Prep Academy Tutors team. I'm a mom of two daughters based in Kelowna, British Columbia (BC). Passionate about entrepreneurship and providing opportunities for my daughters, I launched the first Prep Academy Tutors franchise in BC in the fall of 2022. Once I completed my degree, I worked as a supply teacher for French Immersion elementary school students and later taught Small Business Management, part of the Management Studies Program at Aurora College in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, for several years. I spent many years as a sports coach and co-founded a leadership camp program for youth ages 11-18.
I believe that all children are capable learners and that the support provided by highly qualified Prep Academy Tutors will help students fulfill their potential. I very much look forward to working with families in the BC Interior to help their children succeed.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is my client's success. I have a number of clients that I have coached, advised, and consulted for that have achieved wonderful success. As Prep Academy Tutors of Interior BC is new, we have started to receive several testimonials from students and parents about how the educational support they are receiving has improved comprehension and confidence, increased grades, and has taken the stress away from test and exam preparation.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Sometimes shifting gears from building relationships, marketing, and sales to business operations and client service can be challenging.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Volunteer and stay active in your community to build a strong network.
- Create a daily meditation practice to ensure you are aligned with your business goals.
- Develop an action timeline with SMART goals for your business and bonus points if you have a coach/mentor/accountability partner.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://prepacademytutors.com/location/interior-bc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patinteriorbc/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3YgwSWW
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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