People of Parami: Alexandra Dingle helps students thrive against the odds

At Parami University, academic advising is more than just guiding students through course selections. It’s about building relationships, fostering resilience, and nurturing academic and personal growth—especially in an online environment that brings together learners from Myanmar, Thailand, and Kenya. In this edition of People of Parami, we highlight Alexandra Dingle, an academic advisor whose global journey and deep commitment to equitable education have made her a valued part of the Parami community.

Raised in New York City, Alexandra—known affectionately by students and colleagues as Alex—was drawn to the diversity around her from a young age. That curiosity about different cultures led her to a bridge year with Teach for India, humanitarian work in refugee camps in Greece, and studies in Jordan, where she applied her Arabic language skills in educational settings. After earning her degree from Tufts University, Alex joined Parami through the VIA Fellowship and quickly found her calling.

“I was lucky to stumble upon the VIA Fellowship and be connected with Parami University,” she reflects. “There is truly no better job than academically and personally supporting students. I’m grateful every day to be part of Parami.”

Since joining Parami in mid-2024, Alex has supported Parami students, serving not only as an academic advisor but also as a tutor at the Language and Learning Center, a co-instructor for the Social Sciences Research Skills course, and an advisor for the Public Speaking and Debate Club. Though new to the world of online education, she finds it incredibly meaningful.

 “The students’ drive and dedication to their communities inspire me every day,” she says.

One of the most powerful aspects of advising at Parami, according to Alex, is the diversity of student backgrounds. “Many of our students come from refugee camps, remote villages, or underserved areas. I’m especially proud to support learners in challenging contexts who might not otherwise have access to higher education.”

Alexandra begins each advising session with a check-in, emphasizing mental well-being as equally important as academics, especially as many students from Myanmar face financial stress, connectivity issues, language barriers, and trauma. She prioritizes creating a safe space for open dialogue and support.

Parami also partners with Burmese psychologists to provide trauma-informed support, especially during crises like earthquakes.

In addition to personalized advising, Alex leads skill-building workshops on writing, reading, citations, resume writing, and more. “These sessions help students prepare for life beyond university,” she says. She tailors content based on context, noting, “What a student in Kenya needs may differ from one in a Thai refugee camp. We listen and adapt.”

She is particularly proud of how Parami’s liberal arts model creates opportunities for students to think across disciplines. “It fosters well-rounded thinkers who can solve complex problems,” Alex says. “For students from various educational systems, it offers a chance to explore, take intellectual risks, and grow.”

As part of the Open Society University Network, Parami students are gaining global exposure while staying grounded in their local communities.

Alex has found creative ways to build community through “Get to Know You” meetings, drop-in hours, and club activities even in a virtual setting. “These touchpoints make a huge difference in helping students feel connected.”

Her students have also become her teachers. “I came in with some knowledge of Myanmar, but I’ve learned so much more—from their languages and cultures to their personal stories,” she reflects.

The conversations with Parami students make her enjoy her role as an advisor, as their resilience and wisdom constantly inspire her. She added that working alongside passionate staff members who make Parami’s mission possible is also a privilege.

Alex with Parami students in Chiang Mai and Mae Sot