In this insightful 89th episode of Jam with Sam, hosted by Sampath Iyengar, we spoke with Pratap Iyer, the visionary behind Study Abroad Mentors. Pratap’s journey from an industrial chemist to an educational consultant has helped over 750 students pursue their dreams of studying abroad. His passion for mentoring and his dedication to providing end-to-end solutions make his story a treasure trove for aspiring international students.
From Science to Study Abroad: Pratap’s Unique Path
Pratap’s academic journey began in Dombivli at Don Bosco School, followed by a science degree from Ruia College and a master’s in industrial chemistry with a focus on disaster management. While his career began in Dubai with Caterpillar’s UAE operations, he soon shifted gears to Reliance Communications. However, his true calling revealed itself when he began mentoring students for SAT and GRE during weekends.
A conversation with a grateful student who had achieved admission to Monash University inspired him to pursue mentoring full-time. Pratap’s leap of faith in 2008 led to the foundation of Study Abroad Mentors, transforming the aspirations of countless students into realit
Study Abroad Mentors: A One-Stop Solution
Study Abroad Mentors, founded by Pratap Iyer, is dedicated to assisting students at every step of their international education journey. The core offerings include:
- Consulting and Course Mapping: Identifying the best universities and programs based on the student’s strengths and aspirations.
- Mentoring for Standardized Tests: Preparing students for SAT, GRE, GMAT, IELTS, and TOEFL.
- Application and Admission Support: Guiding students through writing SOPs, recommendation letters, and applications.
Why Study Abroad?
Pratap highlighted why studying abroad offers unparalleled advantages:
- Undergraduate Level: Students gain access to diverse programs like supply chain management, sound engineering, and arts, which are often unavailable in India.
- Postgraduate Level: Opportunities for internships, teaching assistantships, and practical learning provide a competitive edge.
- Global Networks: Students build a global peer group, gaining exposure to new cultures and perspectives.
Budget-Friendly Options for Aspiring Students
For those concerned about costs, Pratap shared practical solutions:
- Education Loans: Indian banks offer tailored loans that can be repaid after securing employment post-graduation.
- Work-While-Study Programs: Countries like the US and Germany offer part-time work opportunities for students to support themselves.
- Free Education in Europe: Countries like Germany provide free education in public universities, provided students master the German language at an intermediate level (A1-B2).
Lifelong Learning and Pursuing Passions
Pratap strongly believes it’s never too late to learn. He cited examples of professionals pursuing MBAs in their 40s and programs like Sloan Masters, designed for experienced entrepreneurs. Such opportunities underscore how education can be a transformative tool at any stage of life.
Challenges and Triumphs in Mentorship
Mentoring comes with its challenges, especially for students unsure about their paths. However, Pratap emphasizes mapping passions to careers. He recalled a remarkable story of a student who pursued a dance major at Yale School of Arts while minoring in math, combining his passion for performance with research.
The Road Ahead
Pratap envisions expanding Study Abroad Mentors to new locations like Juhu and Sakinaka in Mumbai, making international education accessible to more students. With hobbies like photography and a passion for CSR initiatives, such as sponsoring girl child education, Pratap continues to inspire through his work and actions.
Closing Thoughts
Pratap Iyer’s journey reflects the power of mentorship and the transformative potential of education. As the founder of Study Abroad Mentors, he has become a beacon of hope for students dreaming of a global education. His commitment to guiding students through every step ensures they are well-prepared to excel abroad.
About Pratap Iyer:
Pratap Iyer is the founder of Study Abroad Mentors, an educational consultancy dedicated to helping students achieve their dreams of studying abroad. With over a decade of experience, he has mentored more than 750 students and continues to inspire them through his holistic and passionate approach to education.