ISSD Alumni Corner
The Iranian School of San Diego boasts a significant history, having been in operation since 1988, and has positively impacted numerous students and families over the years. The school takes pride in its extensive alumni network, consisting of successful individuals who have made notable contributions to both the Iranian American and global communities. Many alumni now have children enrolled at ISSD, establishing a strong multi-generational bond with the school. In an effort to showcase these accomplishments and underline the value of ISSD, Peyk is highlighting profiles detailing the lives and experiences of the school’s graduates. We are reaching out to select ISSD alumni with a series of questions to not only check on their well-being, but also to introduce them to current students and parents. These alumni could potentially serve as significant role models for the present and upcoming student body.
Nika Rastakhiz
1. During which years did you attend ISSD, and for how long?
I attended ISSD for 6 years, from 1990-1996.
2. Can you share any fond memories or amusing anecdotes from your time at ISSD?
I enjoyed theater classes and performances; going out for chelo kebab after classes and falling asleep at the table in a food coma; and meeting and connecting with other Iranian kids from different neighborhoods in San Diego. We all used to complain about giving up our Saturdays (only to go to MORE school), but in the end, it was the first feeling of community I’d ever experienced.
3. Are you still in contact with fellow students, teachers, or staff from ISSD?
Yes!
4. In what ways has your education at ISSD influenced your relationship with your extended family and cultural heritage?
I have had deep admiration and love for my parents since before I can remember (even in my teen years when I told them I didn’t!). But my time at ISSD helped me respect them on a new level. I got to learn about Iran through their eyes, not through the perspective of the 1990s media. I was able to begin to understand the cosmopolitan culture and history they experienced as kids. (Also, my Farsi got so much better—which I think ultimately made me my grandma’s favorite. Sorry to my sister or cousins who might read this.)
Most importantly, ISSD provided a curriculum and community rooted in pride, with teachers and leaders who were very proud of their Iranian heritage (the art, the language, the food, the historic figures), who wanted to pass it along to a new generation. The impact of this education had a more profound emotional impact on me years later.
5. What are your current endeavors in terms of career, family life, and volunteering?
I am currently the Head of Strategy at a global creative agency. A big part of my job is to understand how consumer insights and cultural trends impact what a brand says/does. I live in Los Angeles, where not a day goes by where I DON’T hear Farsi. And I’m proud to say that I understand every word. Even the slang. For better or worse.
6. What are your aspirations for the future of ISSD, and what advice would you offer to families with children at ISSD or considering enrollment in the future?
The cultural climate has shifted quite a bit since I was a student in the 1990s. Many of us kids at the time were first-generation Americans, assimilating to American culture (while wanting to hold onto our cultural heritage). I think the younger generation, rightfully so, is much more proud of what makes them different and unique. So that being said, I’d love to see ISSD become even more inclusive, and allow Iranian American students to bring more of their friends into the fold. The culture and history of Iran has so much to offer beyond our community.
7. Anything else you want to add?
A personal note to Mr. Sadr. In writing these answers, I realized there’s a theme: dedication to community is not instantly realized. It’s slow, it’s hard, it takes so much time/energy to build, but it’s profound. When I was a kid, I had no idea the effort, service, and love that you put into ISSD, and to all of us. Your unwavering commitment makes me very proud to know you, and call you family. Lots of love.
___________________________________________________Nika Rastakhiz is the Head of Strategy, Anomaly LA
