Orlando tech startup Career Scoops, run by Tatsiana Sokalava and her son, Arman, continues to grow.
Most recently, the duo forged a partnership with the career coaching firm HiLite Coaching, which would expand the base of knowledge at Career Scoops to guide young students to personal success. YOU CAN LEARN MORE HERE.
Career Scoops aims to be a platform that helps young students connect with professionals in certain fields to learn more about what it takes to do the job.
The goal is to give them a taste of a career before they dive into it. The platform has been busy forging partnerships with educational institutions and youth organizations.
We caught up with Sokalava to talk more about the education tech space.
How has Career Scoops gone since launch?
We launched Career Scoops grounded in the belief that every young person deserves the chance to discover a career they are truly passionate about. Over the past year, we have dedicated ourselves to developing and deploying innovative career exploration tools. These efforts have enabled us to bring career clarity and confidence to the youth within our community.
This journey has been nothing short of inspiring, constantly reinforcing our commitment to driving meaningful change in the lives of young individuals by ensuring that each one has the opportunity to uncover a career path that resonates deeply with their passions. We are on the cusp of enhancing our technological offerings with the upcoming beta release of Career Buddy, our AI-driven career companion. This initiative represents a major leap forward in our quest to provide accessible, on-demand career advice to youth everywhere. Career Buddy is not just a tool; it’s a beacon for those navigating the complexities of career planning. At Career Scoops, we are more than just a platform; we are a gateway to possibilities dedicated to assisting every young person on their journey to career fulfillment.
What would you tell someone looking to pursue an idea in edtech?
First, prioritize establishing strong, quality relationships within the educational community. These connections with future decision-makers, clients, and advocates are invaluable. They foster trust and support for your mission and ensure you have a foundation of champions who believe in your vision.
Second, deeply understand the problem you aim to solve and ensure that your intended users see the value in solving this problem. Understanding the landscape and the various stakeholders involved is crucial. A profound grasp of the dynamics at play can significantly influence your venture’s growth trajectory and success.
What’s a challenge and benefit of working with your son on a startup?
The blend of challenges and rewards are unique. Balancing his academic commitments at school with his role in the startup is paramount. His passion for our mission — to help his peers navigate their career paths — is inspiring, yet it’s crucial to ensure he has the space to grow personally and explore other interests, like speech and debate.
The experience of witnessing Arman’s personal and professional growth firsthand is profoundly rewarding. It’s a constant reminder of the importance of our mission, not just to him but to many others. His insights and feedback have been invaluable, continually pushing me to refine our vision and approach.
How has tech changed education recently?
The education landscape has been dramatically transformed by technology, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. AI, in particular, has revolutionized how educational content is delivered and consumed, setting new expectations for both students and educators. The challenge now lies in finding the right balance between leveraging tech-driven solutions and nurturing essential human interactions.
Today’s students are digital natives who have experienced both traditional and virtual learning environments. They require educational approaches that cultivate soft skills while maximizing the benefits of technology. As educators and innovators, we must adapt to meet these needs, ensuring that technology enhances the learning experience without diminishing the value of personal interaction and development.