ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Hello, my name is Tanu Shrivastav, and I am a proud mother to two lovely kids. My daughter graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology in 2021 and is currently a student at the University of Chicago, studying Economics and Computer Science. My son is a student at TJHSST as well; while he got accepted to both AOS and AET at the Academies of Loudoun, he wanted to follow his sister's footsteps and go to TJ.

My daughter didn't have an interest in popular extracurriculars like robotics, coding, and Olympiads. So, I helped her recognize her knack for and interest in designing novel products, especially those that benefit the environment. Together, we conceptualized WaCon (a water conservation device), Paemae (a personal paper recycler), and many other products; this offbeat path lead her to explore new interests, win Invention Conventions, and even place in the Top 25 in worldwide competitions like XPRIZE. On the other hand, after helping my son explore his various interests, he found computer science to be most engaging. He enjoys coding popular games with his own twists and creating purposeful websites that have helped him do very well in competitions. Whether through encouraging collaboration with professors to design a novel, graphene-based face mask during the COVID-19 pandemic or by brainstorming the idea to code a website to help students stay connected and academically productive during quarantine, I have always tried to instill creativity and thoughtfulness in my kids while ensuring that they pursue activities they genuinely enjoy.

I have a Master of Science degree in Foods & Nutrition from Delhi University. While in India, I worked for the Quality Assurance Microbiological department of Sky Chef; in Virginia, I have worked in HR for various consulting firms. Currently, I am on the Board of Directors at India International School in Chantilly, Virginia. Being a trained dancer in Kathak, a North Indian classical dance form, I have also been teaching there for the past 15 years; I have a great rapport with all my students and recognize that each child in unique. With this understanding, I will be sure to work with your child to highlight their individual strengths. 

During my daughter's college application process and my kids' high school admissions process, I took on the responsibility of researching and acquiring extensive information in order to help my kids. Through Strive 2 Succeed, I will be this same resource for your family by providing information and direction throughout the various admission processes.