Featured Entrepreneur of the Month

Please share with us your entrepreneurial journey.

GyanOne represents our relentless pursuit to challenge the status quo in educational consulting. It is a manifestation of countless nights, spent working till the early hours of the morning, fueled by the conviction that every student deserves a chance to achieve their dream of studying at a top-tier global institution.
This journey began as I recognized a void, a lack of a scientific, data-driven approach to the admissions process. The turning point arrived when we started witnessing an increasing influx of inquiries from non-traditional applicants. That's when it hit us - we were on to something truly transformative. We were not just filling an industry void; we were revolutionizing the way educational consulting was perceived and executed.
We charted unexplored territories, guiding aspirants from unique professional backgrounds, like civil servants and doctors, towards a journey of global education. The success stories of our clients, securing admissions in elite institutions like Wharton, Stanford, HBS, MIT, and Kellogg, began to echo across the industry. These stories, reflecting not just their dreams but also their transformative journeys, brought to life our vision and commitment.

How do you stay up-to-date with current study abroad trends and regulations? How is studying abroad likely to shape up in the future?

My strategy is manifold. I maintain a close-knit liaison with admissions committees of esteemed global programs, absorbing their insights like notes on a musical score. Concurrently, my rich network of alumni, scattered across the world, serves as my on-the-ground reconnaissance, providing me a firsthand understanding of the experiences at different institutions.
Additionally, I use my voice to resonate with a broader audience, regularly penning thought pieces on our website and other platforms.
As their mentor, I've realized that guiding entrepreneurs is about aligning their unique journeys, visions, and aspirations with the transformative experience that a global MBA can offer. My role is not merely about navigating admissions; it's about fanning the sparks of their entrepreneurial spirit into a global blaze.

How can an aspiring student choose the right Consulting company?

When you start looking, it's crucial to scrutinize a consulting firm's track record and results. Are they just good marketers, or do they have a verifiable history of real-world success? Reviews and testimonials from previous clients can be a treasure trove of insights here. For example, the firm I founded, GyanOne, holds the #4 ranking among all MBA admissions consultants globally, a testament to our consistent, high-quality results. But rankings and success stories alone aren't enough.
When we started GyanOne, we realized that each student is unique, and their consulting journey must reflect this. Hence, I always ensure that I have an initial profiling session with each potential client, to see if we're the right fit for each other. So, while you seek an impressive track record, remember to look for a consultant who can resonate with your aspirations, who can walk the journey with you, not just as a guide but also as a companion. After all, the journey to studying abroad is as personal as it is professional.

Which country is the best for MBA in International Business?

There is a profound influence of 'fit' in selecting a country and school for an International Business MBA. It's not just about the ranking of a program; it's about aligning the curriculum, alumni network, and cultural exposure with your individual aspirations. It's about finding a program that can help you weave your unique narrative in the vast tapestry of international business.
I remember advising a student who was immensely intrigued by the intricacies of international trade and market dynamics. His sights were initially set on the United States, a usual choice for many, but as we delved deeper into his aspirations, it became evident that a European setting, with its rich confluence of cultures and economies, aligned more seamlessly with his vision. He is now a successful alumnus of INSEAD, a school celebrated for its robust International Business program.
While most people who approach us are already sure of the programs they want to apply to, we help them understand fit, both with their capabilities and their aspirations.

What are the effects of the recent pandemic on MBA Admissions and are there any changes in the curriculum?

The upheaval created by the pandemic gave birth to an unexpected surge in interest towards MBA programs. As individuals grappled with the uncertainty of their career trajectories in a world on pause, many saw an MBA as a beacon of stability and a springboard for growth. The situation also made the opportunity cost of taking a year or two off work for an MBA relatively lower, inviting more aspirants into the fold.
In response to this shift, business schools evolved their curricula to address the new realities. There was a discernible tilt towards courses that emphasized digital business strategies and risk management.
We also saw the rise of the one-year MBA format. With the significant opportunity cost associated with an MBA, these shorter programs offered a potent solution. They presented a valuable alternative that allowed students to quickly acquire advanced business skills and rejoin the workforce without much delay.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with students who are aspiring to study abroad?

First, take a deep breath, and dive into introspection. Understand what you want to achieve from your overseas study experience. Is it just about adding a prestigious degree to your resume, or are you seeking transformation, growth, and a reshaping of your world view? Make sure you align your goals with the program you choose.
Second, prepare yourself for an intricate tapestry of experiences, woven with threads of hard work, moments of self-doubt, unexpected challenges, and invaluable learning. Start early, be prepared to dedicate substantial time and effort to your applications, and brace yourself for rejections. They're not a judgment on your worth, but a call to improve, persevere, and try again.

As a reputed organization in the consulting space, will GyanOne expand its services to offer business consulting to entrepreneurs? Will the target audience be India-specific or International?

Having navigated the journey of entrepreneurship myself, I understand the exhilarating thrill and the unique challenges it presents. I've seen brilliant ideas take shape and businesses soar, but I've also seen promising ventures grapple with strategy and operations. That's where we at GyanOne saw another opportunity to serve.
So yes, we are looking at expanding our service portfolio to include business consulting for entrepreneurs. While we've begun by assisting Indian entrepreneurs, we believe our expertise has a universal appeal. It's a thrilling prospect, extending our influence and making a difference beyond borders.

Walk us through your challenging moments and how you overcame them? Also, tell us 5 tips for budding entrepreneurs, especially women in business.

From my journey, here are three nuggets of wisdom I’d like to share with my fellow women entrepreneurs:
1. Unleash Your Inner Power: You, as a woman, possess an innate strength that is unparalleled. Trust in it, believe in it. You have the power to overcome any obstacle that stands in your way.
2. Master the Balancing Act: Striking a balance between your personal and professional life is essential. Remember, as women, we are natural multi-taskers. Leverage this skill to create a harmonious work-life balance.
3. Assert Your Worth: Stand tall in the face of adversity. Never shy away from asserting your worth, your ideas, and your contributions. Remember, your voice matters, your perspective is invaluable.
As a woman entrepreneur, every step you take not only paves the way for your success but also becomes an inspiration for countless other women who aspire to carve their path in the entrepreneurial world. Embrace the journey with all its ups and downs, because every challenge overcome is a victory, a testament to your indomitable spirit.