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.
Aladdin H. Shadyab, PhD
1. During which years did you attend ISSD and for how long?
I attended ISSD from 1994 to 2001, spending 7 years there between the ages of 8 and 15. Although I was already fluent in Farsi, my family enrolled me to strengthen my skills in reading and writing the language. It was a truly enriching experience and I have fond memories of my wonderful instructors.
2. Can you share any fond memories or amusing anecdotes from your time at ISSD?
I always looked forward to the annual Norouz celebrations at ISSD—they remain some of my fondest memories. One of my favorites was the 1996 celebration when I was ten years old. Mrs. Estakhri and I performed a funny skit involving a magic lamp, inspired by the story of Aladdin from One Thousand and One Nights. To this day, people still bring up that skit when we reminisce.
3. Are you still in contact with fellow students, teachers, or staff from ISSD?
I stay connected with many former students, teachers, and staff on LinkedIn, and we occasionally cross paths in person as well.
4. In what ways has your education at ISSD influenced your relationship with your extended family and cultural heritage?
My education at ISSD provided me with a deep understanding of Persian history, language, and traditions. Speaking Farsi fluently, despite never having visited Iran, has greatly enriched my relationships with both my family and the broader Persian community in San Diego. The education I received not only expanded my knowledge of Persian culture, but also instilled in me a strong sense of pride in my heritage. It reinforced the importance of preserving our cultural traditions and passing them on to future generations of Iranian Americans.
5. What are your current endeavors in terms of career, family life, and volunteering?
I am an Associate Professor of Public Health and Medicine at the University of California San Diego, with a joint appointment in the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, as well as the Division of Geriatrics in the Department of Medicine. My research focuses on aging; I have published extensively on the factors that influence exceptional longevity and healthy aging in older adults.
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?
I would love to see ISSD continue to play a vital role in helping future generations of Iranian Americans maintain their connection to the Farsi language and Persian traditions. Extracurricular activities in Persian dance and theater are particularly important. For families with children at ISSD or those considering enrollment, my main piece of advice is to encourage your children to practice Farsi at home and actively participate in the school’s cultural events and extracurricular activities. This involvement will not only strengthen their language skills, but will also deepen their appreciation of their heritage.
7. Anything else you want to add?
Feel free to reach out to me for advice or to connect at aladdinhs@yahoo.com
Aladdin H. Shadyab, PhD
Associate Professor
Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science
Department of Medicine
University of California, San Diego
