Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronda Swanigan.
Hi Ronda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started my journey over 10 years ago. I attended Spelman College for my Bachelor’s Degree and received my Master’s Degree in School Counseling at Clark Atlanta University. My passion for college planning started when I worked with the NFL assisting high school athletes navigate the college admission process. I was a school counselor for over 7 years and specialized in college and career readiness. I later became the College Access Counselor Lead where I supervised college advisors in my district. I was also recognized by College Board for the “Counselor Recognition Program” (providing all students with college opportunities). With my background and knowledge, I knew that it was time for me to step out on faith and start my own business assisting students get into college. That is when I decided to purchase an amazing college planning franchise called Class 101. With the support of Class 101 Founder Tom Pabin, I was able to open my own business working with students through grades 8th-12th. A true passion of mine and such a needed service, my dream of being a small business owner was finally a reality.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There has been struggles along the way. Though I had college planning experience, as a new business owner I had to master new responsibilities.
Some of those included marketing, hiring, bookkeeping, and all the ends and out of managing a successful business. Hiring has been important because in order to continue to grow your business, you need a strong and trustworthy team. I’ve been blessed to hire some amazing team members. Each struggle has been an amazing lesson learned which has helped with the progression of my business.
We’ve been impressed with Class 101 Irving, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Class 101 Irving, I help students and families navigate the college planning process. The end results? Students get into a great college at a price their family can afford. My mission is to empower students, serve families, and inspire greatness. I know that applying to college can be overwhelming, which is why I strive to make this process enjoyable for families. I navigate the complex, multi-year process by working one-on-one with students as early as 8th grade to their senior year. Some of the services I provide are helping students develop an intentional college list, career exploration, improving their grades, SAT/ACT/PSAT test prep, crafting college essays, exploring scholarship opportunities, and successfully transition to college. But it’s not just about getting into college.
At the core of everything, I do is a passion for helping young people find their future. I feel that is what sets myself and my business apart from others because I am so passionate about what I do, and the results show through my students. I also partner with local nonprofit organizations to provide them with college planning resources and volunteer my time assisting with community outreach activities. The highlights of my business are seeing those acceptance letters and scholarships roll in for my students. Seeing them transition off to their top college is the best feeling and so rewarding. I truly love what I do.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
I have learned that students need college planning assistance now more than ever. Since the pandemic, so much pertaining to the college admission process has changed. Many students and parents aren’t aware of the new changes and it’s important that I educate them to help make the process smoother. I also learned due to the Covid-19 Crisis, that it’s so important to give my students as well as myself some grace. This has been a difficult time and it’s important to make sure my students are social and emotionally taking care of themselves.
Contact Info:
- Email: rswanigan@class101.com
- Website: https://www.class101.com/irvingtx/
- Instagram: @Class101Irving
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Class101IrvingTX
Image Credits
Chrissey Garcia (CG Photography)
