Emily Sica
Student

Building Dreams, One Floor at a Time

The ability to adapt to different contexts and situations is a lesson deeply ingrained in my life. Born into an old-fashioned Italian family, my upbringing was a unique blend of tradition and global exposure. My childhood was spent amidst the hustle and bustle of our family-owned hotels, a legacy built by my hardworking grandparents.

In 1961, my grandparents made a courageous move that has informed the following generations. They sold their home and invested their life savings in a plot of land where they built the foundation of our family business. Every summer, the entire family would come together to live and work, slowly adding new floors to the growing hotel. Today, my 85-year-old grandmother still holds the reins of our family company, entering her 62nd working season.

My grandmother’s resilience was forged through adversity. She lost her mother at just 14 and had to care for her father and three younger brothers, abandoning her own education. As a result, she was determined that her daughters, my mother and aunt, would receive a complete education. They now manage the last hotel my grandfather purchased, “Sans Souci,” a magnificent glass structure perched on a promontory overlooking the sea. It’s a place of serene sunsets and gentle summer breezes, a sanctuary of peace.

Surrounded by a large family of strong and ambitious women, I learned from their wisdom and determination. Their guidance has shaped my path, instilling in me the values of discipline and respect, rooted in our Christian faith. Growing up, I interacted with people from all corners of the world, fostering a deep respect for diverse cultures and traditions while staying true to my own beliefs. My upbringing has prepared me to navigate the complex and ever-changing world we live in today, reminding me of the importance of adaptability and the beauty of cherishing one’s heritage.