Alumni Spotlight: AliReza Basiri, ISM Class of 2020

At The International School of Minnesota (ISM), our goal is to provide students with a well-rounded education that helps them succeed not only academically but also in their personal growth and future careers. AliReza Basiri, a member of the Class of 2020, is a prime example of how the unique experiences offered at ISM set students up for long-term success.

Originally from Dubai, UAE, AliReza moved to Minnesota in 2015 and attended ISM through his high school years. Reflecting on his time at ISM, he shares how the school shaped his foundation, both academically and personally, and prepared him for his career. "My time at ISM truly shaped who I am today. I was exposed to a variety of cultures and perspectives, which was a huge part of my growth. This exposure helped me build the skills needed for teamwork, leadership, and adaptability," AliReza says.

During his time at ISM, AliReza not only excelled academically but also became an active leader on campus. He served as the Deputy Head of Sports in the SABIS^® Student Life Organization (SLO) in his senior year, where he gained leadership experience that has been valuable in his professional life. "Being a part of SLO helped me with leadership, time management, and understanding the importance of teamwork—skills that have been essential in my career journey," AliReza reflects.

A major factor in AliReza’s decision to attend ISM was the school's international community, which mirrored his experience in Dubai. "ISM felt like the right fit for me. The international environment made me feel welcomed, and the school’s offerings stood out compared to other options in Minnesota," he explains.

His journey didn’t stop after graduation. AliReza went on to study marketing at the College of St. Scholastica, where he also played soccer. While completing his studies, AliReza’s career took off in the marketing field. He secured an internship with Mystic Lake Casino’s marketing department, which turned into a long-term opportunity, allowing him to work remotely while finishing his college degree. His ability to adapt and balance multiple roles was a direct result of his time at ISM. “The leadership and teamwork I learned at ISM helped me handle various responsibilities in my internships. I had already built up the skills needed to manage a high volume of work while staying organized,” he explains.

In addition to his marketing experience, AliReza also cultivated a passion for photography and videography, which he self-taught. He applied this new skill set by managing the College of St. Scholastica’s athletics media, overseeing everything from game day photos to social media updates. “ISM encouraged me to think creatively and step outside my comfort zone, which helped me in my college internships and in building my professional portfolio,” he shares.

AliReza recently accepted a full-time Marketing Coordinator position at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. Looking ahead, he has ambitious goals for both his career and personal growth. Professionally, he plans to continue advancing in the marketing industry and is excited to keep learning about the evolving digital media landscape. Personally, he aims to further develop his photography skills and continue pursuing his passion for creativity.

His advice to current ISM students? "Get involved in as many activities as possible. The more you try, the more you'll discover about your own strengths and interests. It prepares you for whatever challenges come next." He also highlights the advantage of taking college-level courses while in high school, a unique opportunity at ISM. “The college credits I earned at ISM really gave me a head start in college and helped me feel more prepared than my peers," he states.

As AliReza moves forward in his career, he reflects on how his experience at ISM was instrumental in his success. "The small class sizes, the personal attention from teachers, and the support system were key in helping me feel ready for college and beyond. I will always be grateful for the unique opportunities I had at ISM."

AliReza’s journey is a testament to how The International School of Minnesota nurtures students, not just academically, but in every aspect of their personal and professional development. His story highlights the lasting impact ISM can have on its students, helping them confidently take on the world beyond high school.