Aethr Academy: a virtual campus for aspiring virtual assistants
Choose a building
Swipe sideways, or tap a building.
Campus directory
Prefer a list? Tap any building and the bus will take you there.
Check your device
Clients expect a reliable setup. Read what you need, then run the live check to see how your current device measures up.
Hardware and connection
| Item | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Computer | Laptop or desktop made in the last 5 to 6 years | Recent laptop with an SSD, kept up to date |
| Memory (RAM) | 4 GB | 8 GB or more |
| Screen | Laptop screen, 1366 px wide or more | Full HD, plus an optional second monitor |
| Internet | Stable home broadband | 25 Mbps or more, plus a backup such as a mobile hotspot |
| Headset | Wired earphones with a mic | Noise-cancelling headset with a boom mic |
| Webcam | Built-in camera | 1080p camera at eye level with front lighting |
| Power | Charger and a charged laptop | Power bank or UPS to ride out short outages |
| Workspace | Quiet corner | A fixed desk and chair, with a plain background |
These are practical guidelines, not strict rules. A phone is useful as a backup, but most VA work needs a laptop or desktop.
Software to set up
Google WorkspaceZoom or Google MeetSlackTrello or AsanaCanvaLoomTime trackerPassword managerAccounts to open
Professional emailPayment accountCloud storageLinkedInTwo-factor on every accountThis check runs only in your browser. Nothing is recorded or sent anywhere. The microphone and camera tests ask for your permission first.
Pick your niche
A niche makes you easier to hire and easier to remember. Answer a few questions to see where you fit, then choose a primary niche and write your niche statement.
1. What describes you?
Pick at least three that sound like you.
2. Your background
Pick the one closest to your past work or studies.
3. Explore the niches
Open a card to see the tasks, tools, and level. Then set your primary niche and an optional backup.
5. Learn your niche: free basics
Short lessons with activities. Earn XP, keep your streak, and finish all three to complete the basics.
Prepare your checklist
Work through these before you apply. Your ticks are saved on this device.
Let's get started
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Interview practice
Talk to a simulated client. Pick the reply you would actually say, read the feedback, then try again until it feels natural.
Discovery interview with a founder
Introduce yourself, explain how you work, handle a tricky situation, and ask good questions.
Rate and scope conversation
State your rate, handle pushback, protect your scope, and agree on payment terms.
How to speak with a client
Answer in three beats: Point, Proof, Pivot
Be specific, not impressive
It is fine to pause or ask
Set boundaries calmly
Your setup is part of the interview
Free guides
Practical guides on where to find clients, what to prepare, and how to avoid scams. Read them here, or save any guide as a PDF.
Find jobs for your niche
Choose a niche and jump straight to matching job searches on trusted platforms. Niches you matched with in the Niche Studio are highlighted.
Take your niche further
Advanced lessons for every niche, with real-situation practice and a certificate of completion for each niche you finish.
One-to-one coaching
A real person in your corner. Bring your campus progress, and leave each session with a clear action plan.
Which session fits you?
Choose where you are right now.
How it works
Choose a session and pick a slot that suits your time zone.
Tell us where you are on campus and what you want to work on.
Walk away with specific next steps you can act on straight away.