Name

Yogini Patel

Family

My family is comprised of my husband, Manish, and daughters, Shriya (15) and Riddhi (7)

Franchise Location

Smyrna, Georgia

Educational Background

What schools did you attend and where?

I attended school in Zambia.

What teacher or school experience had a big impact on your life?

My high school home room teacher who also happened to be my biology teacher. Not only did she teach us biology/science but also valuable life skills.

Work Background

I started my career as an airport manager for a regional airline in Africa and went on to pursue my MBA. I then went into banking before opening my MathWizard/A Grade Ahead franchise (the Smyrna Enrichment Academy).

The A Grade Ahead Experience

How long have you been an owner of an A Grade Ahead academy?

I have owned an A Grade Ahead academy for 1 year and 2 months.

Why did you choose to open a MathWizard/A Grade Ahead franchise?

After trying various other programs, I was not satisfied with what they had to offer. I then did some research and found MathWizard (as it was called previously). At the time, they were only offering the at-home mailing program. My daughters loved it and so did I. It gave them confidence at school, which translated into good grades. Once both my girls were at school and somewhat independent, I decided to open my own academy to give back to the community and help children just like it helped my own daughters excel at school. I truly believe in the A Grade Ahead program.

What is the best part of the A Grade Ahead program?

The best part of our program is that the curriculum compliments the school curriculum; hence it’s a true supplement. I also like that the children are in a classroom setting with teacher-led instruction rather than having all the grade levels grouped together and working independently.

For Fun

What do you do for fun outside of work?

I like to cook and bake, so I spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I especially like spending time with my family.

What is your favorite book?

I don’t have time to read anymore, but reading was my favorite hobby. I love to read John Grisham books.

Words of Wisdom

What advice do you have for parents who want to help their children get ahead?

Parents should be involved in their children’s homework. Ask them what they learned at A Grade Ahead and make them feel like you care. If your children see how involved you are, they will want to be just as involved and to do well.

What advice would you give someone who’s starting an A Grade Ahead franchise?

Be prepared to work hard. It’s not easy but is a very rewarding business. Be passionate about what you are offering the children and believe in the material.

Looking Ahead

What are your future plans for your academy/academies?

At the moment I am concentrating on expanding my current academy, expanding to nearby Grayson with a partner, and eventually hoping to open academies in every major suburb of Atlanta.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming an A Grade Ahead franchisee, visit our website for more information or contact Mandy Ahlstrom, Franchise Manager at 614-389-4117.

What do you like most about the A Grade Ahead franchise in your community?

Author: Amy Daniels, Marketing Manager, A Grade Ahead