In 2024, 18-year old Alina Uzdenova stumbled upon a job listing for an Office Coordinator II position in the Enrollment Department at Visions In Education. Fresh out of high school and working as an after-school teacher, she couldn’t help but think: “How funny would it be if I worked at the same place I graduated from?”
With all these through lines – including her conversation with now-colleague Robert Kane during her own enrollment as a student – it’s clear that Alina’s journey from Visions student to Visions staff was meant to be.
“On the Enrollment team, I work directly with parents to make sure they’re well-informed about our academies. I answer questions, guide them through the application process, and help ensure everything is completed accurately so their students can have a smooth start at Visions,” shared Alina. “Being a student at Visions gave me firsthand experience and personal insight into how our school operates. That background helps me connect with parents and explain the different academies from a genuine, informed perspective.”
“Alina is a hard worker and very driven. She is a great team player and is always willing to pitch in wherever she can,” shared Rick Lilley, Enrollment Services Manager. “In her primary role she is the ‘tip of the spear’, one of the first people that families talk to when they express interest in our program. With her unique perspective as a former student she is able to really help families understand what the experience will be like for their student. She is a fantastic ambassador for Visions both as a graduate and as an employee.”
If you saw Alina in our Enrollment area today – tucked beside the Learning Center and freshly decorated for the holidays – you might still mistake her for a student. Not yet 20, Alina still represents what it means to be a lifelong learner – curious, ambitious, and empowered.
“My experience as a Visions student was amazing,” shared Alina, who was part of our Independent Study Academy. “I really appreciated the flexibility – it allowed me to have a job while staying on top of my schoolwork.”
But the most impactful part of her journey was her teacher, Stephanie Kyles, whose commitment went above and beyond, even meeting with Alina during lunch breaks to ensure she stayed engaged and confident in her learning.
“What truly made the [Visions] experience special was Ms. Kyles. She made learning so much better and more enjoyable, and I’ll always be grateful for the support and encouragement she gave me.”
“Alina was one of those students teachers never forget. She was bright, driven, and always willing to put in the extra effort — not only to stay on track but to work ahead and graduate early,” said Stephanie. “It was such a joy getting to know her, learning about her interests and hobbies, and watching her grow into the remarkable young woman she is today.”
Born and raised in Sacramento, Alina spent her early years living in and visiting Russia. An identical twin (hi, Diana!), she loves spending her free time reading and hanging out with her friends and family.
“Outside of work, I’m also a local and travel wedding and couples photographer – you can see my work on Instagram at @portraitbyalina!” Alina shared.
But most exciting of all, Alina recently stepped out from behind the camera to become the star of her own business – the bride. On November 1st, she married her husband, Vlad, and spent two wonderful weeks honeymooning across Italy, visiting Rome, Como, Bellagio, and Lezzeno. With the freedom to fill her days with what matters most – developing her business, pursuing her passions, and spending time with loved ones – Alina’s life as an employee isn’t so different from the life we make possible for students: one of exploration, balance, and joy.
“Working at Visions has really come full circle for me. I started as a student here, and now I get to help families who are just beginning that same journey. It’s been so rewarding to give back to a school that supported me when I was finding my own path. I’m excited to keep growing, both personally and professionally, and to see where the future takes me.”
