A Learning Process

Neha Gupta built her fast-growing college-application business, College Shortcuts, one step at a time. But she always led with her heart.

- Stephanie Schomer

Getting into college is something worth celebrating—but the process of getting into college is nothing short of excruciating. In 2007, Neha Gupta was a recent college graduate, and the memory of applying to schools was still fresh: It was a confusing experience that sparked arguments with her parents and left Gupta feeling isolated. To bring in cash, she started offering to help parents and students navigate the intense, draining application process, and as her clientele grew, College Shortcuts was born. Today, the Houston-based business has nearly 100 Ivy League-educated employees helping teens across the country target potential schools and perfect their applications—while providing a heavy dose of emotional support. Here’s how she got started.

1/ Get the word out.