Ever wondered what it takes to turn a side hustle into a thriving business empire? Karina’s story with Looks Learn is not just inspiring; it’s a blueprint for turning passion into a successful enterprise. Her journey from juggling part-time tutoring while in university to leading a team of 11 tutors and serving nearly 100 students weekly is a testament to what’s possible when you dream big and act boldly.
The Leap from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
Karina’s leap from a corporate job to full-time entrepreneurship was fueled by a burning desire to fulfill her potential. After a brief stint as a project manager, she realized the 9-to-5 grind was dimming her spark. With a few clients on the side, she took the plunge into full-time tutoring, and by July, she was fully booked. Her husband joined the effort, and soon, she employed more tutors, growing her business to what it is today. This journey underscores the importance of listening to your core instincts and taking action.
3. Embrace Challenges: Overcoming obstacles, from health issues to proving credentials, can lead to personal and professional growth.
Navigating the Challenges of Business Growth
Starting a business from scratch is no small feat, and Karina faced several challenges along the way. Initially, defining the purpose and values of her business was tricky. She wanted to ensure that her tutoring center could fully support students, unlike the more commercialized centers she had worked at. Another hurdle was the intense hours she put in, especially during the early days, compounded by her diagnosis of PCOS, which brought chronic fatigue and other symptoms. However, by setting boundaries and prioritizing her health, Karina managed to balance her work and well-being.
The Power of Experience in Tutoring
One of the unique challenges Karina faced was proving her credentials to potential clients. Without a traditional teaching qualification like a PGCE, she relied on her extensive experience and the expertise of her team. Her tutors, many of whom are currently studying or working in their fields, bring real-world knowledge to their lessons. This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also inspires students by showing them the practical applications of their studies. Karina’s focus on experience over formal qualifications highlights the value of practical knowledge in education.
I think experience is so important because you’re actually working within the field that you’re actually interested in.
Supporting Students with Special Educational Needs
Karina’s commitment to education extends beyond traditional tutoring. She has taken a particular interest in supporting students with special educational needs (SEN), including those with Dyslexia. Her business offers free workshops and catch-up sessions, creating a nurturing environment where students can thrive. By focusing on individualized lesson plans and holistic learning, Karina ensures that no student is left behind. Her dedication to SEN students and their parents demonstrates the importance of understanding and supporting different learning styles.
There’s nothing wrong with having SEN needs; they just have a different way of learning.
Embracing Extracurricular and Holistic Learning
Looks Learn goes beyond traditional subjects, offering a range of extracurricular activities from art sessions to book clubs. Karina’s background in design allows her to incorporate creative elements into her tutoring, making learning fun and engaging. Additionally, her focus on supporting students with dysgraphia and other developmental needs showcases her commitment to holistic education. By providing a space for students to work together and offering free revision sessions, Karina creates a community where students can flourish academically and socially.
The journey of transforming a side hustle into a thriving business is filled with challenges and triumphs. Karina’s story with Looks Learn is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when you follow your passion and stay committed to your vision. As tutors, we can draw inspiration from her approach to education, emphasizing the importance of experience, supporting students with special needs, and fostering a holistic learning environment. The “villain” here is the belief that success in tutoring is limited by traditional credentials or that students with special needs cannot thrive. By embracing a growth mindset and understanding the power of neuroplasticity, we can break these barriers and help our students reach their full potential. Join the Learning Success affiliate program to enhance your tutoring services and boost your income while helping your students overcome learning challenges.
Author: Laura Lurns
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