Iris Aliaj

Academic Mentor

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Iris Aliaj

Academic Mentor

Iris enjoys working with students who have math phobia and transforming their experience with the subject.

With a decade-long career in education, Iris radiates a passion for awakening confidence and joy in students as they engage with mathematics.

She is guided by educationalist Kurt Hahn’s belief that “There is more in you than you think." This mantra underpins her interactions with every student, even those who initially struggle. Iris finds her confidence reinforced by neuroscientific research on the "growth mindset," the understanding that abilities can be developed. Hence, she finds great satisfaction in transforming the experiences of students grappling with math phobia.

Iris's academic training in psychology and educational science at prestigious institutions forms a solid foundation for this transformative work. A proud alumna of Amherst College, she boasts a double major in psychology and mathematics. Further, her Master’s of Science in Education from UPenn Graduate School of Education sharpens her skills in pedagogy.

Her teaching repertoire includes a global array of experiences, having taught both IB and AP courses at international schools across the United States, Croatia, and Albania. Moreover, Iris has contributed to national educational research in Albania.

Away from the world of numbers and equations, Iris finds solace in running, hiking, and practicing mindfulness meditation. Her curiosity extends to poetry and art gallery openings, while operatic music and TED Talks satiate her intellectual cravings.

Schools

Amherst College, University of Pennsylvania

Languages

English, Italian, French, Albanian