In a world where most people follow the path laid before them, My Private Professor founder Sona Shah chose to forge her own. Leaving behind a years-long career in law to pursue her true passion for tutoring and education, her unlikely journey is a testament to the power that can unfold when a woman fearlessly follows her true calling.
Photo Credit: Teresa Renee Rogers Photography
From law to education: A journey rooted in passion
Shah began her professional career as an attorney in Los Angeles and Orange County, where she relished in the intellectual rigor and opportunities to engage in high-stakes cases—a dream for many in the legal profession. But as she continuously clocked in 60-70 hour weeks, a growing sense of dissatisfaction began to creep in. Despite the exciting challenges and the prestige that came with a career in law, Shah ultimately found herself questioning the path she had chosen for herself.
"I started to just notice a bit of a void," Shah said. "I asked myself, 'Is this really bringing meaning?'"
The turning point came when she pushed herself to think about what she would do if money weren't a factor. And then, the answer was clear: she wanted to tutor students. It was a passion she had nurtured since grade school, and it was this realization and return to her true calling that set her on a new path—one where she could make a profound impact on her community through education.
The birth of My Private Professor
Shah abandoned her career in law to pursue something that had brought her so much joy as a student; she started out by tutoring kids in cafes, and the transition wasn’t an easy one—nor was it met with much acclaim in its early days.
“When I left law, there was a bit of a stigma around my decision. I think there might have been a perception that I left because I couldn’t cut it, or didn’t want to cut it. I had people share with me feedback like, ‘You’re tutoring? I used to do that when I was in high school’,” Shah said.
“So, I definitely felt a little bit of an ego hit at first, but I had to get to this place where I realized I wasn’t doing this for anybody else. I wasn’t doing this for validation from society; it was because I thought it was going to make a true difference. I think that experience taught me to be internally resilient, and to decide that every day, I’m going to do what I love and it’s going to work because there’s so much passion behind my decisions, and I see where this can go.”
Photo Credit: Teresa Renee Rogers Photography
What started in cafes gradually blossomed into My Private Professor: a thriving educational services company that now serves thousands of students across the United States. The company’s mission is to provide top-tier tutoring services to all students, regardless of their background, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed academically and beyond.
My Private Professor distinguishes itself in several key ways. First, the company operates with a dual model, offering both B2B and B2C services. This allows them to support not just individual students and families but also corporations looking to offer meaningful benefits to their employees. The company also gives back to the community by providing free tutoring to students experiencing homelessness, partnering with local nonprofits to reach those in need.
"Our platform is very focused on the student and the family's success," Shah said. "We have tutors that we select based on their expertise, experience, and passion. Basically, the criteria is: if I wouldn’t want my own kids working with them, they don’t get in the door."
A day in the life of a female entrepreneur
As the founder and leader of a rapidly growing company, no two days are the same for Shah. Her daily routine is a blend of strategic planning, team meetings, and personal self-care—reflecting the balancing act that many women entrepreneurs must master in order to succeed.
"Every day centers on how to best serve our clients. Some days, it's about partnerships, discussing how we can best serve employees and families during the school season. Other days, it's about social media and marketing—a.k.a., how do we elevate the importance of education and amplify our impact online?” Shah said.
Despite the daily demands of running a business, Shah makes it a priority to maintain her wellbeing. Her day also includes time for exercise, nutritious meals, and perhaps one too many cups of coffee.
Advice for aspiring women leaders
Throughout her journey as an entrepreneur, Shah has learned valuable lessons that she shares with other women aspiring to lead.
Her first piece of advice? To follow your passion, even when it leads you off the beaten path.
"The challenges you face, especially in the beginning, will test your identity and your resolve. But those challenges are what make you stronger. They force you to dig deep and find out who you really are and what you really want,” Shah said.
"I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible women in different industries who are also charting their own course, and finding that tribe has been validating and uplifting. Keep in mind that you're not alone on this journey, and when you’re following your passion, you’re always able to make an impactful difference."
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