Venetya Evans

Simi Valley, California

Why did you join the FOA?

As a franchisee with no Sylvan experience, I want to have access to resources and information that will give me the best chance of succeeding in my new venture.

How many years have you been in your profession?

31

What do you love about your job?

Until I retire this year to start my Sylvan Learning Center, my current job is in software development, so that is the only "job" I know at this point. What I love about it is how much fun it is to use software to solve all kinds of problems. It's almost like doing a jigsaw puzzle. You use small pieces to create a whole picture. 

What is one thing you would tell someone wanting to get into your field?

For someone who wants to explore software development or software engineering, I would advise them to make sure their math skills are sharp. I would strongly recommend enrolling in Sylvan Math Edge and attend a STEM camp or two!

Lana Khalil Eid

Rogers, Minnesota

Why did you join the FOA?

I believe that communication is fundamental to know each other, share knowledge, experience. SFOA is a platform where all Sylvan owners can meet, exchange experiences, so to extend our goals that lead to success. 

What do you love about your job?

To make a change in the lives of students, help them to overcome all the obstacles they face during their educational path. Inspire all others around that life "despite all challenges" deserves to make something different. Education is a fundamental need in our life, Sylvan is the best name to lead education for the new generations!

What is one thing you would tell someone wanting to get into your field?

Education is a fundamental need in our life, Sylvan is the best name to lead education for the new generations.

Jessica Agopian

West Covina, California

Why did you join the FOA?

I became a member of the SFOA to enhance my community involvement and gain valuable insights from experienced Sylvan franchise owners. My goal is to fully support the students in my center and actively share successful strategies with the Sylvan community. I'm eager to contribute my own expertise and be a valuable asset to our fantastic Sylvan franchise!

What do you love about your job?

I love the connections I build with students, making Sylvan a fun place to be. I love witnessing the spark of understanding in a child's eyes as they make new connections. I love assisting families and being a pillar of support throughout the school year. I love providing motivation through rewards and witness the growth of students. This is the most rewarding job I've ever had.

What is one thing you would tell someone wanting to get into your field?

I'd say, embrace the journey of constant learning. Education is a dynamic field, and staying open to new ideas and approaches will not only benefit your students but also keep your passion alive. Every day is a chance to make a positive impact, so stay adaptable and enjoy the transformative power you have in shaping minds.

Nancy Shrewsbury

Rock Hill and Lake Wylie, South Carolina

Why did you join the FOA?

I joined SFOA for support because I am new to Sylvan and have so much to learn. I want to draw on the experience and expertise of the group and get to know other franchisees.

What do you love about your job?

I enjoy many aspects of my job as owner and center director at Sylvan. As a retired teacher, I love that I still get to work with children and their families and help them achieve their goals. It brings me joy to see that the students who come to Sylvan really love being there. I also love learning new things about running a business and making business connections throughout the communities we serve. I feel like being my own boss has helped me to achieve a better work/life balance. Even when I do work extra hours or weekends at events to promote our business, it feels like fun instead of work. These are just of few of the many things I love about my job and I am glad I made the decision to own a Sylvan franchise.

What is one thing you would tell someone wanting to get into your field?

Something I would tell someone who wants to own a Sylvan franchise, it that it is challenging and scary to start a business, but there is so much support available with Sylvan, that you will always have help and advice when you you need it. Everyone wants to see you succeed including the other franchise owners around you!

Ramesh (Ram) Patel

Long Beach, California

Myself Ramesh and my wife Kiran Patel we are in Long Beach California as Sylvan Center # 8573 l. We bought existing center back in March 2021, Before Sylvan I was in few other retail franchise business and my wife was a full-time employee. We saw that previous owner (Mr. Rand Bleimeister) wanted to retire and looking for new owner for the center. We felt like we can make some academic difference in students falling behind grade level due to Covid and give hope to frustrated parents. It’s turned out to be a good opportunity from both sides and so far we are happy with it! The challenges we face these days are staffing and keeping up with sales volume, hopefully it get better real soon!!!