Interview with Haadia: Finding Strength and Growth through the IMM Program

Haadia, from Batch 2 of IMM Pakistan, shares her experience after 4 years from her graduation. Here a few insights and advice for next students.

Four years after graduating from the International Mathematics Master (IMM) Pakistan, Haadia reflects on a journey that shaped not only her academic path but also her inner strength. Passionate about mathematics since childhood, she pursued a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, a passion that only deepened with time. Yet, when she wished to continue her studies through an MPhil and move closer to research, she faced a familiar challenge: limited opportunities for advanced studies in Pakistan, and no immediate chance to go study abroad.

Then, a senior colleague mentioned the IMM Program, and from that moment everything changed: “The structure, the international faculty and the focus on building a strong mathematical base really stood out” she recalls.

From the very beginning, the international academic environment was really fascinating to her. Interacting with professors and students from around the world opened new horizons, making her realize that mathematics, and subsequently learning itself, is in fact a global language. The diversity of ideas and teaching styles taught her to adapt, to stay curious and to never hesitate in asking questions.

One moment, in particular, remains engraved in her memory:

“Professor Stefano personally reached out to my university to help ensure my transcript could be submitted on time. That gesture showed me how much the IMM team truly cared ” she says with a smile.

When Haadia officially joined the IMM program, the experience soon proved to be transformative. The community : vibrant, diverse, and tightly knit quickly began to feel like family. Around that time, she was also preparing for her wedding and the IMM team supported her in every step of the way. “They told me, ‘Even if you need to study from home, we’ll be here for you.’”

That support became even more meaningful later on. During one of the hardest periods of her life, the IMM faculty stood firmly by her side. “My tutor told me, ‘Don’t worry, we are here for you. If you need extra time or help, we’ll support you.’”

Instead of giving in to the challenges, Haadia decided to channel her energy into something positive, her studies. She completed her exams and passed with strong marks, carrying from that experience a deep sense of confidence.

“For me, IMM was never just an academic program” she says. “It was a community that genuinely cared for me as a person.”

Rediscovering Confidence and the Joy of Learning

When asked about the impact of IMM on her confidence and view of mathematics, Haadia doesn’t hesitate to say

“IMM was a challenging program, but that’s what made it so rewarding. Completing it gave me the confidence that if I could do this, I could do anything.”

Always drawn to data science and machine learning, she had once found those fields intimidating.

But guess what, IMM changed that for the better. The chance to explore data science topics under excellent supervision sparked a long lasting interest.

Today, as a full-time mother, Haadia continues to take online courses in data science and personal development. “IMM taught me how to keep learning, no matter where I am” she says.

Teachers Who Leave a Mark

Among the many professors who inspired her, one stands out clearly in her memory.

“I still remember how Professor Stefano taught us the clarity, the patience, the way he built strong foundations before moving to complex topics. His teaching style made even difficult subjects feel understandable and meaningful.”

Now, when she tutors her own students, she notices how much that experience shaped her approach. “I find myself doing exactly what he did starting from the basics and building step by step. IMM not only strengthened my knowledge but also changed how I think about teaching and learning.”

Meaningful Advice for Future IMM Students

Her message to future students is simple yet powerful:

“Be fully committed from day one. IMM moves fast, and every class builds on the next. Don’t postpone understanding a concept ask questions, seek help and make the most of the community around you.”

But beyond academics, she adds, the IMM journey is also about personal growth.

“IMM doesn’t just teach you mathematics it teaches you resilience, curiosity, and confidence.”

Looking Ahead

Today, Haadia’s life revolves around her family and her two-year-old daughter, a full-time commitment she embraces with joy and grace. Yet her passion for learning hasn’t faded. She continues to take courses in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) and data science, preparing for the day when she’ll return to research.

“My plan is that in five or six years, when my daughter grows older, I’ll be ready to pursue research again. IMM gave me that mindset to keep moving forward, to stay curious and to believe that learning never stops.”

With a smile, she adds:

“I can proudly say I was part of this prestigious program. IMM gave me not only knowledge, but the belief that I could grow no matter where I am in life.”

Stories like Haadia’s reflect the spirit of the IMM community one built on mentorship, resilience, and the shared belief that education can transform lives. Her journey is a reminder that learning is not confined to classrooms or borders; it continues wherever curiosity and courage exist.