How a hedge fund analyst quit a lucrative job and built a massive global edtech empire that aims for a multi-generational impact, rather than raking in profits
The penny suddenly dropped. It was a few months into 2010. Salman Khan had quit his high paying and impressive job as a hedge fund analyst in 2009, and finally converted his five-year old ‘admirable hobby’ into his new profession. “So, what do you do,” quizzed one of the couple who bumped into Khan and his wife at a dinner event in Palo Alto, California. The Harvard grad, who was also armed with three degrees from MIT, did his best to dish out an impressive reply. “Well, I am running this project which is not-for-profit,” Khan said proudly. “I've made some software, and also make YouTube videos on math and science which are getting popular,” he continued, listing his nascent achievements. “I am looking for people who can donate as this project will definitely turn into something big,” he finished, hoping to hear words of encouragement.