Gaia Giradelli

SIS student 1975 – 1981

Do have any particular memories of your time at SIS that you’d like to share?

One of my friends Saadia (from Pakistan) got stung by a bee in the outside playground. Her eye was all swollen and red. Still she made no fuss. She was so brave and I will never forget how her courage inspired me. The fun we used to have during the Gym Pirates classes, and the screams of all the girls in the showers afterwards. Now I feel sorry for the poor teachers who had to keep us under control 😉

What did you gain from taking part in clubs and activities at SIS?

The choir ABBA experience was an epic event for me and all those involved. Something to cherish forever. Both the recording sessions at Polar Studios and the 2 concerts (Gothenburg and Stockholm) were so very exciting. I loved my guitar lessons with Ms. Fiest, she was an awesome music teacher. She taught us to love music and a little of that hippy “free spirit” that you should never take things too seriously. My ballet classes taught me discipline and how hard work pays off. The Girl Scouts taught me the importance of team-work and friendship. And especially that GIRLS are as worthy and capable as boys. All in all it was very character building.

What are you doing now?

After leaving Stockholm and SIS (at the time Anglo American School then ISS), I finished high School in Rome (St. George’s English School), then I went on to Manchester Metropolitan University (UK) for a BSc Management degree. I then decided it was time to return to my homeland – Italy. I worked in the Tourism business for 18 years (Accor Hotel company then an Incoming Tour Operator). In 2011 given a crisis in the tourism sector I jumped ship and joined a Telecommunications company specialized in SMS traffic. I am Partnership Manager, so I get to use my language skills and some of my degree studies.

What influence did your time at SIS have on your career so far?

My language and multi-culture skills have always helped also in the workplace.

What advice would you offer current SIS students?

To enjoy the experience al much as possible. To make lots of friends because they can be friendships that last a lifetime. To discover as much as possible of the cultures that surround them. You are lucky kids; make the most of this privileged international environment.