Episode 73 | Kovida Mehta | ADVERB | The Knowledge Entrepreneurs Show

22 Sep 2023

47min

Episode Description:

In this conversation, Kovida Mehta shares her transformative journey from aspiring doctor to a successful career in English language teaching. She discusses the pressures of parental expectations, her eventual decision to pursue her passion for languages, and the rigorous path she took through education, including obtaining the CELTA certification. Kovida also highlights the challenges she faced in the job market, particularly in India, where her qualifications were often undervalued. Despite these obstacles, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and finding one's true calling. In this conversation, Kovida Mehta shares her journey from unemployment to becoming a faculty member at Allen and co-founding Adverb, a startup focused on business communication and soft skills training. She discusses the challenges she faced in establishing her business, the importance of teaching methodologies, and her role as an examiner for the British Council. Kovida emphasizes the need for practical learning in education and the impact of technology on teaching. She also reflects on her aspirations for the future and her desire to empower others in their career paths.

Key Takeaways:

Kovida initially pursued medicine due to parental pressure.
She discovered her passion for languages during her education.
Language learning is a vast and complex field.
Many misconceptions exist about English studies.
CELTA is a rigorous and prestigious certification.
Career opportunities for CELTA holders can be limited in India.
Kovida faced significant challenges in finding a job after CELTA.
She applied for numerous jobs but faced rejection.
The importance of perseverance in pursuing one's passion.
Kovida's journey emphasizes the value of following one's true calling. Adverb was started during a phase of unemployment.
Kovida balances multiple roles as a teacher and entrepreneur.
Becoming an examiner requires rigorous training and standards.
Teaching methodologies in India differ significantly from international practices.
Practical learning is preferred over theoretical learning in Kovida's classes.
Technology plays a crucial role in modern education.
Kovida aims to reach a senior position in her career.
There are various career opportunities beyond teaching, such as managerial roles.
Kovida enjoys the freedom to experiment in her teaching methods.
She hopes to help others navigate their career paths in education.