EChalk

Atesh Sadigh

Contract Administrator

Why did you choose to work in education?

Actually, it has been during my time at eChalk that my interest in education has grown. I knew very little about eChalk before joining, aside from the basic description of the product, but I was drawn to the company by the prospect of joining an organization that was among the first of its kind in a setting where this type of technology is up and coming and also for the importance placed on making progress as an employee. Going in, I was told that I had to want to grow into different positions and I was excited by what that could mean.

Describe the eChalk culture.

The eChalk culture is distinct in that every member is devoted and dedicated to not only their specific responsibilities, but to the greater success of the company as a whole. At the company I worked for previously, my coworkers had no ties to what they did. For example, at 4:59pm they would have their bags packed so that as soon as it hit 5:00 they could run out of the office. Every day. I remember early on when I would stay late, I was worried that I would be the only one left in the office. That never happens! In fact, I’m convinced that some people must be hiding rollaway cots under their desks.

What do you like best about working at eChalk?

One thing I must say is that effort never goes unacknowledged or unappreciated. Whenever a team or an individual has put in extra time and effort, when projects are completed or successes small and large are achieved—the entire company knows it. I feel this goes a long way in reinforcing the value that we perceive in our work.

How would you describe eChalk customers?

My interaction with customers is limited to contracts and forms, so I rarely get the chance to work with anyone besides business managers and E-Rate consultants. However, I did get the chance to meet a few school administrators whose districts use eChalk and I learned about the impact eChalk has had in their schools, as well as the innovative ways teachers were using our applications. Honestly, listening to how an entire district was revitalized from overall test scores to increased graduation rate as a direct result of eChalk was incredible.

Describe your fellow eChalkers.

I look at them on two different levels. On the professional side, one thing that everyone has shown me and that I find really important is patience. I am a person who asks a million questions and I have never been met with exasperation. That, along with a general willingness to help makes it easy for me to approach my coworkers and ask for their assistance.

On a personal level, I’ve noticed that many eChalkers have developed good friendships that go far beyond the office walls. At holiday parties and team dinners, everyone seems to genuinely enjoy each other’s company and even do things together in their free time. I think that lends to good vibes in the office and can strengthen professional relationships as well.

Is there one event that stands out during the time you’ve worked at eChalk? 

Prior to being on the Finance Team, I was a member of the Sales Team. One of the last things I did for Sales was to organize Sales Week, a weeklong gathering of Sales Reps from across the country. I had to do things I’d never done before, like work with the conference center to set up the event, as well as fun things like going around to different restaurants to pick places for dinner. I was nervous, but once it began I was excited that I got to be a part of putting it together. Once it was over and I heard such great feedback, I felt proud and even a little sad that it was over.

How do you describe eChalk to your friends and family?

I usually say something along the lines of 'you know____? It’s like that, but better!' Then I tell them to go to www.echalk.com.

What surprised you most about working at eChalk?

This may not seem like a big deal, but I was very surprised by the open office layout. I had never seen a workplace that didn’t have private offices and I was intrigued by this. I quickly learned what a huge difference it made in approachability and connectivity between the different departments in the company.

What excites you about the future of eChalk?

I think once a school/district becomes aware of eChalk and what it can do, its usefulness is undeniable, so I’m excited to see how many schools will come on board in the future. I look forward to seeing the schools I’ve attended join the roster of eChalk users. (I am also looking forward to the holiday party and family picnic!)