INTRODUCTION

 

Narsi is an inspiring entrepreneur who came to this country with nothing, but dreams and a light sum of money to his name. Now Narsi owns two bars and is hoping to share his knowledge and success with his community.

 

 

 

EDUCATION

 

What University did you go to? What was your major?

Purdue University – Computer & Information Sciences

 

What's a must take course for someone in college trying to enter your field?

A Degree in Computer Science will be huge help, but it’s not mandatory.

 

What did you do at your university that has attributed to your success in the workforce?

My master’s project helped me a lot along with all other course work. Also I was the President for the computer science club, which helped me with leadership qualities and in building relationships etc.

 

How has your degree impact what you do today?

It definitely has helped me get the Job I am in today due to the degree.

 

JOB TRANSITION

 

How would you describe your transition from college to the real world?

It was hard, but working part time jobs during college helped me get through this a bit easily.

 

Is previous experience necessary in what you do or was it mostly on the job training that has ease your transition?

My master’s degree has helped, but it was mostly the on the job training that ease my transition.

 

JOB INSIGHT

 

When did you realize that this was the career that you wanted to be in?

I have 2 different careers. One when I decided to join my master’s program, the other career just happened hanging out with Industry friends.

 

What does a typical work schedule look like for you?

I work 9am to 5pm at my healthcare IT JOB. 5pm to 2am/4am my bar job so I am working somewhere between 12hours to 20 hours a day

 

What type of impact does you work make on your company?

I maintain the main critical patient database at the University Of Chicago Hospitals. If there are any issues, the whole hospital becomes lame and they have to go back to manual paper work for everything they do with patient care.

 

JOB SPECIFIC

 

How often do you have to learn new skills that have to be incorporated into your job?

Technology changes almost every day. So I have to stay up to date.

 

What knowledge is essential to succeed in what you do?

Database Administration Skills.

 

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

 

What inspired you to invest in a bar?

My bar/restaurant industry friends that I was hanging out with while doing my full time job at RUSH hospital.

 

Describe some unexpected issues you have had to deal with throughout your ownership process, and how you were able to overcome it.

Every day I deal with some or other unexpected issues that include an employee /employees calling off to work, fights at the bar or being hit with a law suit to name some. Every problem has a solution. Although it’s stressful, alternative arrangements are made and sometimes I work myself.

 

What do you like most about being a bar owner?

Providing Customer Service & Making sure everybody is having a great time when they come into the bar.

 

What has been an effective marketing tool for your business?

Facebook / Word of Mouth

 

ADVICE

 

What does it take to excel in your field?

Constantly having the drive to keep going.

 

Describe some hurdles that you had to overcome in order to get where you are today.

When I came to UIC, I had $5000 to spend on my education. My parents could not afford to fund my tuition/expenses other than the $5000. As a student, I had to pick up multiple jobs in order to sustain myself. After saving up enough money and finding a creditor to lend money to me, I was able to invest in my first bar (Drum and Monkey). Unfortunately things did not go well there, and I had to part with my business partners. Even after the split, I was able to pick myself up and buy The 10 Doors that many people go to today.

 

What advice do you have for someone who wants to follow in your footstep?

I am an immigrant who came 14 years back and living my American Dream. My Advice for people: America is a land of opportunities and there are plenty. So if you are willing to WORK HARD you definitely can become successful.