Alicia Leon is currently studying at Sarah Lawrence College, where she is pursuing a degree in the Humanities with a focus on Italian linguistics and filmmaking.

She is a 22-year-old passionate writer, musician, and Italian language enthusiast born in the United States and raised in the Dominican Republic. Alicia finished her last semester at Bronx Community College in Fall 2024, graduating with honors and receiving seven different academic and leadership awards. Her journey has been shaped by her experiences in both countries, leading her to discover her true calling in academics and creative expression.

Her love for Italian goes beyond academics. Alicia wrote a book in Italian about her aunt’s journey with cancer, titled La Realtà della Vita, which is now available on Amazon, and has made short films in Italian. She also wrote and sold songs in Italian, showing her dedication to the language and culture. In August 2024, Alicia attended Scuola Dante Alighieri in Recanati, Italy, where she earned a B2-level CELI Certificate. Through various programs, including World Lang America and an Italian podcast from the University of Macerata, Alicia is continually improving her fluency and deepening her connection to Italian culture.

Alicia's long-term goals include earning a PhD, becoming a professor of Italian, and living in Italy, where she hopes to immerse herself further in the language and culture. With a deep commitment to honoring her aunt’s dreams, Alicia is dedicated to exploring the world and sharing her aunt’s story through their shared experiences.