Business and Law lecturer Assad Shamsi’s journey from a student at Regent College London (RCL) to an inspiring educator is a remarkable testament to the power of education and mentorship. From his early days as a student seeking support for his GCSEs in 2001 to his upcoming role as co-author of The Octagon of Scaling Mantras, Assad’s story is one of personal growth, passion, and dedication to learning.
A Journey Rooted in Positivity
Assad’s connection to Regent College London began when his mother, recognising that he needed extra academic help, brought him to a tuition session at the University of Westminster. This decision introduced Assad to the College’s co-founders, Selva and Tharshiny Pankaj, who were instrumental in shaping his educational path.
“I will never forget meeting Selva and Tharshiny for the first time,” Assad recalls. “Their positivity and enthusiasm for teaching were truly refreshing. They brought so much energy into the room, which immediately inspired me.”
This early experience not only helped Assad improve academically but also introduced him to the value of personalised attention in small class settings—something he would later adopt as part of his own teaching philosophy.
From Student to Colleague
As Assad progressed through his studies, his involvement with Regent College London deepened. By 2001, he had become a regular presence at the College, balancing his role as a student with part-time administrative work. This gave him a front-row seat to the College’s growth, as well as insight into the dedication behind the scenes.
“I started my sessions in 2001, and by 2002, I was collecting my GCSE results from one of RCL’s new campuses,” he reflects. “For a time, I was at the College seven days a week—studying during the week and working in the office on weekends. There was a strong sense of camaraderie, and I got to see the College from a different perspective.”
During these formative years, a desire to become a lecturer began to take shape. Inspired by his late brother, who had aspired to become a tutor, Assad nurtured his growing ambition. A crucial moment came when Selva’s father, Senior, encouraged Assad to consider teaching as a career, offering the advice, “You can start slow.”
In 2007, Assad took the first steps towards this goal, tutoring part-time in information technology (IT). As he continued to work in various sectors, including accounting and IT, Assad was able to bring real-world insights into his teaching, enhancing the classroom experience for his students.
Teaching with Passion and Purpose
Assad’s teaching style is a reflection of the best qualities he observed in the educators who shaped his own learning journey. He places great emphasis on building rapport with students, understanding that creating a comfortable, engaging learning environment is key to helping students reach their full potential.
“When I started teaching, I wanted to emulate the teachers who enriched my experience as a student,” Assad says. “The best teachers not only have the technical knowledge but also understand the importance of connecting with their students on a personal level. You need to bring them out of their shell before true learning can begin.”
Assad’s meticulous approach to lesson planning also sets him apart. His preparation often begins weeks in advance, ensuring that every session is purposeful and well-structured. “I always write a list of key outcomes for every lesson,” he explains. “When I step into the classroom, I want to be fully prepared so I can focus on delivering the best possible learning experience.”
Initially, Assad primarily taught IT, but when Regent College London expanded to offer higher education courses in 2010, he began teaching business modules. His academic progression was further bolstered by his MSc in Business Systems Integration from Brunel University in 2016, a qualification that allowed him to advance his teaching career further.
The Next Chapter: Exploring Ethics, Technology, and Business
Assad’s dedication to education extends beyond the classroom. In late 2024, he will release his co-authored book The Octagon of Scaling Mantras, written alongside Senior Lecturer Dr. Palto Datta. The book explores the intersection of human nature, ethics, technology, and business, offering readers a deep dive into these interconnected themes.
Originally conceived as a series of research papers in 2022, the project evolved into a book to accommodate the authors’ academic commitments and provide greater flexibility. For Assad, the project aligns closely with his core belief that human wellbeing must always come first.
“We are living through times of unprecedented technological and economic change,” Assad reflects. “There are many things beyond our control, but we can control our mindset. The most important thing we can do is take care of ourselves, because human beings are the foundation of everything—both in the workplace and beyond.”
An Inspiring Legacy
Assad’s story is a powerful example of the transformative impact that education can have on an individual’s life. From his early years as a student at Regent College London to his current role as a dedicated lecturer, Assad has shown an unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their potential.
His journey from student to educator is not only inspiring but also a reminder of the incredible influence that teachers can have on shaping the future. Whether through his teaching or his upcoming book, Assad’s passion for education and personal growth continues to leave a lasting mark on the RCL community and beyond.
With a bright future ahead, Assad Shamsi’s story is one that will continue to inspire students and educators alike for years to come.
