Recently, we interacted with Mr.Atulya Kaushik,Co-Founder and CEO of PrepInsta – India’s most visited website for placement preparation.
Here are the interview highlights:
What is the motivation/idea behind starting the ed-tech placement platform?
In the year 2018, I, Atulya Kaushik, along with my esteemed co-founders Aashay Mishra and Manish Agarwal, embarked on the journey of initiating PrepInsta as an ed-tech venture, sprouting from our humble origins in the dorm rooms of VIT Vellore. Our motivation behind starting the ed-tech placement platform, PrepInsta, stemmed from a deep-seated desire to address the pressing issue of limited job prospects faced by engineering graduates in India. Drawing from our own experiences as students, we were all too familiar with the daunting task of searching for suitable job openings across various online platforms. We realized that there was a lack of centralized resources that could effectively connect talented individuals with prospective employers. This realization fueled our determination to create a platform that would bridge this gap and serve as a convenient, all-in-one solution for both students and companies. By establishing PrepInsta, our goal is not only to provide students with a platform to explore and apply for job opportunities but also to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields. Additionally, we envision PrepInsta as a means to showcase the immense talent and potential that resides within India. By connecting companies with skilled individuals, we aim to establish India as a global hub for sourcing top-tier talent, thereby raising the country’s profile on the international stage.
Mr.Atulya Kaushik,Co-Founder and CEO of PrepInsta
Can you explain about the PrepInsta service and product offered to the user?
At PrepInsta, we take pride in pioneering an innovative Over-the-Top (OTT) model that revolutionizes learning by offering students worldwide access to a diverse range of resources and expert guidance, empowering them to learn at their own pace. With our Prime subscription, learners unlock a comprehensive suite of 200+ courses, including Placement Preparation Courses, AI/Machine Learning, Cyber Security, Coding Courses in C/C++, Competitive Coding, Ethical Hacking, Python, DSA, and other valuable upskilling courses, significantly enhancing their employment prospects. To stay abreast of market demands, we recently introduced new courses to our Prime module, such as FAANG placement preparation, service-based company placement, web development, data analytics, Power BI, and Salesforce. Alongside incredible placement opportunities, we also provide students with internship programs across various domains as part of our comprehensive placement policy. It is worth noting that our collaboration with AON CoCubes allows us to offer students the CoCubes Assessment enabling students to get shortlisted for interviews of various MNCs, propelling them forward on their professional journey.
How does this placement platform have made itself different from another existing platform?
At PrepInsta, we distinguish ourselves from other ed-tech platforms in India through several key factors. Firstly, unlike our competitors who typically offer access to only one course, our innovative OTT subscription model provides students with the opportunity to explore a vast spectrum of skills by granting them access to over 200+ courses. This unparalleled range allows students to diversify their knowledge and choose the courses that best align with their career goals. Moreover, our unique offering of PrepInsta Prime enables students to have the freedom to opt out of any course and pursue alternative skills, giving them unmatched flexibility in their learning journey. Another crucial aspect that sets us apart is our commitment to affordability and accessibility. While many ed-tech platforms come with hefty price tags, we offer our courses at modest prices, making them accessible to students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities who may not have the financial means to participate in such opportunities otherwise. We firmly believe in democratizing education and ensuring that it is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all aspiring learners. Furthermore, our exceptional NPA (Net Promoter Score) rating speaks volumes about the satisfaction of our users. With an impressive score of almost 70%, our students vouch for the quality and effectiveness of our courses, reinforcing our commitment to delivering valuable educational experiences. To further enhance the credibility and value of the certifications we provide, we have implemented a dual certification system. Students who successfully complete our courses not only receive certificates from PrepInsta but also earn certifications from renowned organizations like TCS. This dual certification system adds an extra layer of credibility to their credentials, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
As a CEO what advice you will give to the perusing candidate?
As a CEO, my advice to pursuing candidates is to follow their passion and align their career choices accordingly. Embrace lifelong learning by continuously seeking opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge through education and self-improvement. Building a strong professional network is crucial for career advancement, so actively engage in networking events and online communities. Embrace challenges with a growth mindset, viewing setbacks as learning experiences. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals and gain practical experience through internships or volunteer work. Additionally, stay updated with industry trends and technologies to remain competitive. Develop strong communication skills and take calculated risks to seize opportunities for growth. Moreover, maintain a healthy work-life balance to sustain overall well-being. Remember, success is not solely measured by financial achievements, but by personal fulfillment and happiness. Embrace the journey, stay true to yourself, and proactively pursue your goals for a rewarding career.
Help us to understand your opinion upon the current scenario of the education industry in India?
The current scenario of the education industry in India is characterized by a rapid transformation fueled by technological advancements and evolving learning needs. The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly accelerated the adoption of online learning platforms and digital education tools, as schools and universities adopted remote teaching. Ed-tech companies have witnessed significant growth, providing students with access to a wide range of courses and resources. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on skill development and vocational training to meet the demands of the job market. Government initiatives and collaborations between educational institutions and ed-tech startups are driving innovation and shaping the future of education in India. However, challenges such as infrastructure gaps need to be addressed to ensure inclusive and equitable education for all.