Alumni News

Darrian Love, founder of Collegiate Academy of Carolina, aims to cater to the diverse educational needs of learners. From the academy’s foundation as a support system for ESL learners to its expansion into Academic Success Programming and Educational Coaching, Collegiate Academy of Carolina is a testament to Love’s vision of providing thorough academic support. 

In this question-and-answer series, Love reflects on the inspiration behind his business, its unique offerings, challenges encountered along the way, and valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

What was the inspiration behind starting your business?
My inspiration came from supporting all learners in their academic journey to success, no matter the language or the academic school program they attend, and from providing a place to receive extra intervention or enrichment.

What sets your business apart in the market? 
We offer a unique tutoring program that is not like your typical tutor. For one we call our Tutors, Academic Success Techs. Our goal is to support learners in being successful in any subject. We utilize a diagnostic tool to gather a baseline of the learners’ performance and then provide a unique individualized academic program for several weeks to measure academic growth.

What challenges have you encountered along the way, and how have you overcome them?
Most challenges I have encountered have been inhuman resources and accounting sectors. I do not have a background in payroll, billing, or onboarding contractors. However, I had to research it and find the best platforms that worked for me and my business. After discovering my solution, I used Square for my invoice system and payroll. I utilized Indeed to find potential contractors to bring onto my teams. I still have challenges that may arise from time to time that I just don’t know the answer to, but the answer comes from the advice I would give one”.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with students considering a similar path?
I encourage students who are considering a similar path to persevere. You learn so many skills running a business. I have learned so much from Networking groups. You can meet other professionals with whom you are unfamiliar and have a conversation over coffee or a Zoom meeting to trade best practices. Therefore, my biggest advice is never to give up and network because other business owners were once a blank canvas, and their passion developed over time.

Darrian Love’s entrepreneurial journey exemplifies the life-changing power of passion, perseverance, and adaptability in business. Through the Collegiate Academy of Carolina, Love addresses educational gaps and fosters a community dedicated to academic success and personal growth. 

To learn more about the Collegiate Academy of Carolina, please click here.