From Constraint to Flourishing: An ISSH Journey
How an Independent Academic Space Became the Catalyst for Intellectual Freedom, Scholarly Excellence, and International Opportunity
The Search for a Progressive Alternative
My academic life began at Tehran University, but the hierarchical and restrictive educational system there became quickly irritating for me. It was during this time that a close friend introduced me to the Institute for Social Sciences and Humanities (ISSH). Immediately, I recognized it as the progressive alternative I needed. I was deeply drawn to the program because it hosted many of the Iranian intellectuals whose pioneering ideas I already followed. Without hesitation, I applied.
The Foundation of Integrity and Excellence
The ISSH gave me the platform to pursue a challenging and vital piece of research: my Master’s thesis on “Daula and ’Umran: The Political and Economic Origins of Environmental and Geographical Determinism in Ibn Khaldun’s Thought.” Under the dedicated supervision of Dr. Mohammad Reza Nikfar, this experience was defined by intellectual rigor and professional support from the entire administrative team. My work did not just survive; it thrived. The thesis received the highest grade (95 out of 100) and earned the distinction of Cum Laude, marking the beginning of my true academic trajectory.
The Catalyst for International Success
The success at ISSH was not an end, but a powerful catalyst. Backed by the rigorous review of my committee referees, Dr. Ali Banuazizi and Dr. Nayereh Tohidi, my thesis quickly transitioned to the international stage. It was presented at academic conferences and it is currently slated for publication by Iran Academia University Press.
Crucially, this foundation allowed me to successfully relocate to the Netherlands, where I secured a Research Fellowship at the International Institute of Social History (IISH), and later, earned a full scholarship to pursue my MA in Gender Studies at Utrecht University.
Our Shared Responsibility
The ISSH has been the touchstone of my academic life—a precious space where I was empowered to hope, resist, and forge meaningful intellectual friendships. I will never forget the immense support I received, particularly from Ali Reza Kazemi and Sajad Sepehri, and I will always be under their debt. I know my story is one of many. Countless Iranian students have found their voice and academic future through the ISSH. Supporting the ISSH is not charity; it is a critical investment in intellectual freedom and a commitment to ensuring that the next generation of Iranian students and scholars can truly flourish.