For ASB graduates, former students, past parents and staff, the years spent at the American School of Barcelona plays an essential role in our school’s history. Our alumni have learned alongside each other, embraced challenges, and shared many experiences that prepared them for their future.
If you are ASB alumni and would like to share an update about your current status, or a story from your time at school, please connect with us by email at alumni@asbarcelona.com. Sharing your stories or showing how your career has developed is a fantastic way to inspire our students and allows our alumni community to stay connected and engaged. We look forward to hearing from you!
Ms. Marta Vernet, Head of Activities and Community Services
Marta is one of our veterans on campus. She attended ASB from ECC to Grade 12, together with her sisters, Mirea and Ariadna, graduating in 1985. Her mother, Montserrat Yll, was a founding teacher of the school, teaching classical dance to elementary students. Ms. Montse also introduced summer camps to ASB, “Colonias,” where students visited Mas Bado to learn and play in nature. Marta’s two daughters, Maria (Class of 2013) and Laura (Class of 2016), also attended ASB, graduating with the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Still feeling closely connected to the school, Marta came on staff at ASB in 1989. She has enjoyed several roles before her current as Head of Activities and Community Service, including teaching assistant, after school coordinator and activities, and athletics and alumni coordinator.
One of Marta's favorite subjects in high school was Literature with Ms. Hernando. She also enjoyed participating in Model United Nations (MUN) and ASB ski trips.
Marta fondly remembers former teachers, Ms. Hazel, Ms. Baldi, and Mr. Smith, who is still teaching at ASB. Marta recalls receiving her first Apple computer from Mr. Smith in the '80s. Marta was still a student when Mr. Manzano in the business office started work at ASB. Now they are colleagues.
Today Marta is an active Rotarian. She introduced Interact and Rotakids programs to ASB. "I love to see children empowered through service," she commented, "I hope to inspire them to continue to have a mindset of serving and creating value in their community."
I love my job," shared Marta. "I love working with students of all ages, connecting them to the Barcelona community or other communities worldwide through service projects.
For Marta, ASB is "family"; she feels safe here. “It’s like coming home.
If you haven't yet met Ms. Christina, an encounter with her will have you wishing you were back in ECC. Christina's warm and charismatic personality results from growing up internationally, following her father's career. As a child, Christina attended international schools in Venezuela, New Zealand, Australia, and Kuwait, finally moving to Barcelona for her senior year to attend ASB. She graduated from the Class of 1984.
I only attended ASB for one year," said Christina. "But it remains part of who I am. I made very close friends and have wonderful memories."
Christina attributes the family atmosphere at ASB to her choice to come back to work here in 1990. She is a firm believer in child development, its stages and outcomes, and the early years education has been a focus all her professional life. She has taught all ECC grade levels from preschool through Kindergarten and ELL and assumed her current position as ECC Principal in 2010. It has been emotional for Christina to see her PK3 students graduate from ASB.
When asked for a word to describe the school, Christina quickly responds, "teamwork."
ASB's Facilities Manager, Mr. José Manuel, is used to long days on campus at ASB. He is the first to arrive in the morning and the last to leave each evening. Being on campus is nothing new for him, though. As a boy, José Manuel grew up living on ASB's former and first campus at Plaza Eusebio Güell in Barcelona (the main entrance was on Sor Eulàlia d'Anzizu Street). Both his parents worked for the school since its inauguration in 1962, until their retirement in 1992 (father) and 1995 (mother).
"The school itself was located in a large house, surrounded by playgrounds," he recollects, "I enjoyed living and growing up inside the school."
As a student at ASB, Mr. José Manuel remembers the small class sizes and good friends he made. "We still meet and talk every year," he shares. Graduating from the Class of 1984, together with former classmate and colleague, Ms. Christina Torrengo, José Manuel's daughter, Jessica, is also a graduate from the Class of 2015. Jessica attended ESERP University in Barcelona, graduating with a degree in Marketing, Advertising and Public Relations, and an Executive Masters in Event Management from the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management Sant Ignasi (HTSI). She is now undertaking her second Masters degree in Neuromarketing.
As a student, Jessica fondly recalls the many summers she spent working at ASB summer camps. "Since both my grandparents worked at the school, and my dad studied and worked at the school, I felt like I was following the family tradition by working at the school during the summer," she recalls.
Having teachers who had also taught her father when he was a student at ASB or shared stories or photographs of earlier times when her grandparents were on campus, was also meaningful for Jessica. "We had some fun times," she shared, "I remember one year dressing up for Halloween together with my dad."
José Manuel's father has many recollections from the early days of ASB, including the school's relocation from Plaza Eusebio Güell to Font del Lleó and today´s location in Esplugues. He recalls one day when a construction crane accidentally fell on top of one of the school buildings. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the experience ensured that safety at ASB remained priority for him.
While a student at ASB, Jose Manuel's favorite subject was computer science in high school with M. Candance. Solving problems and taking on challenges in those early classes is something he enjoyed and continues through his work today at ASB.
When asked for one word to describe ASB, it is easy for Jose Manuel to respond: "Home."
We continue our series of "Meet and Greet" sharing voices from our community. Today we feature Ms. Elena Ballesta, whose family has a wide and varied footprint in the ASB community.
Ms. Elena began her learning journey as a student at ASB in PK3 until she graduated in 2006. Her brother, Javier, also attended ASB from PK3 until graduation in 2003, together with fellow alumni and colleague, Ms. Ana Mercadal. Elena and Javier's cousins, MariJuli and Genís were also students at ASB. Their mother, Ms. Trini Villalobos, worked at ASB for 47 years, beginning at age 17 as a secretary in the business office while attending university. Later after her graduation, she joined the teaching faculty at ASB and taught Spanish/Sociales until she retired in 2016. Ms. Trini’s twin sister, Ms. Mari Carmen, also worked at ASB as a PK3 assistant teacher in the ECC.
After graduation in 2006, Elena attended the University of Barcelona, where she studied Psychology. She continued her studies in Milan, at Bicocca University, obtaining a master's degree in Special Needs in 2014. Prior to her current role as a Reading Specialist in Kindergarten-First Grade, Elena was initially a teaching assistant in the Elementary School, moving into a Learning Support Teacher role and later a Student Support Services Coordinator in the Elementary School.
Today, as a faculty member at ASB, Ms. Elena has great respect for former teachers. She fondly recalls classes with Ms. Raquel Domingo and Mr. Miguel in Elementary School, Ms. Montse Rodrigo, Ms. Montse Pérez and Ms. Magda in Middle School, and Mr. Bartlett and Mr. Smith in High School.
When asked for a favorite memory from her student days, Ms. Elena responds, "I couldn't choose one. From senior graduation to planning Halloween costumes in High School to many trips with teachers and friends - camps/colonias, the trip to Delta del Ebro, ski trips to Andorra and Close Up in NYC and Washington DC. They were all amazing and unforgettable. I shall treasure the memories".
We continue our series of "Meet and Greet" sharing voices from our community. Today we feature Mr. Joan Metzger, our youngest alumni on staff.
Mr. Joan attended ASB from 2001-2006, from Grade 9 until graduation. His mother, Ms. Sue Metzger, worked in ECC for 17 years before retiring in 2016 and returning to the United States.
Mr. Joan recalls his “American/Spanish” high school experience as a great opportunity to get to know both worlds. He fondly remembers classes with high school English teacher, Ms. Mac, Spanish with Montse Rodrigo and PE with Coach Miguel.
Joan's professional relationship started at ASB in 2009 as an ASB coach. Since then he has supported the school in different roles including substitute teacher until permanently coming on staff in 2017 as an assistant in ECC.
Colleagues today who were on staff when he was a student at ASB include Mr. Smith, Mr. Brasher, Mr. Bartlett, Mr. Volchok, Ms. Magda, Ms. Mercadal, Mr. Manuel, Ms. Cristina, Ms. Erin, Ms. Nula, Ms. Marta Aguayo, Ms. Silvia and Ms. Marta Vernet.
We continue our series of "Meet and Greet" sharing voices from our community. Today we feature ASB's Head of Human Resources, Ms. Ana Mercadal.
Ms. Ana is probably one of the staff members you hear the least about, but a vital part of operations at ASB who supports the backbone of all things related to having our teachers live and work in Barcelona.
She attended ASB as a student herself from 1998 until graduation in 2003, after which she completed her Bachelor in Communications at the University of Barcelona. With a British mother and Catalan father, Ana grew up immersed in both cultures and subsequently has great understanding and empathy for both our Spanish and international personnel.
Ms. Ana's mother, Ms. Ros, also worked for ASB, initially as a homeroom teacher in ECC, then as a G2/3 teacher in the Elementary School, and finally as an IT Coordinator, before she retired in 2014.
Her favorite recollections are from classes with Mr. Brasher (HS History), Ms. Macnamee (HS English Lit), and Ms. Chandlee (G5).
When asked what she misses from those early school days, Ms. Ana shares, "the sense of family, the school was small and approachable. You knew everyone, and everyone knew you. One of my favorite memories was playing on the soccer field. In those days, the field was just an open and dusty space. As an elementary student, that was the perfect setting to build trenches and huts made from overgrown grass and whatever else we would find."
Colleagues on staff who were a part of the ASB community when Ms. Ana was a student include Ms. Elena Ballesta, Mr. Mark Smith, Mr. Steve Bartlett, Mr. Tom Brasher, Ms. Marta Aguayo, Ms. Marta Vernet, Ms. Bronwyn Evans, Ms. Susan Fleming, Ms. Lynda Johnson... and even her boss, Mr. Volchok, who used to be her HS Principal!
Alumna Georgina Malagarriga ‘98 attended the American School of Barcelona for nine years, together with her brothers, William ‘94, Charlie ‘98, and Albert ‘07. Following ASB, she completed a Graduate Degree in Design at Elisava School of Design in Barcelona, later furthering her studies at the University of Southampton (Bachelor in Fine Arts), at Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Masters in Digital Arts), and at Cambridge University (CELTA).
Initially a web designer and now an online ESL teacher, Georgina has worked in many different roles, from junior designer to Project Manager.
“My main focus has always been to participate in something significant and built upon human values.”
Georgina is currently working at Oxinity, an online community of teachers who teach languages based on natural learning approaches and Big Data. This new career path takes her back to her days as a student at ASB, where she has fond memories of Ms. MacNamee, a life mentor, and Ms. Rosa Ruiz, who still supports her today with her research and studies. “At Oxinity, in addition to our teaching method based on technology, we have created a community of freelance teachers who can develop professionally through an innovative business model based on sharing. This collaborative approach appeals to me, since empathy and seeking the well-being of the community results in a win-win situation for all partners."
“While at ASB, I remember feeling loved, and I know that love and happiness work hand-in-hand. I appreciated my relationships with my teachers, who went beyond academics, teaching me life lessons, unique values, and gave me very special insights. The search for my own happiness led me to commence studies in Eastern philosophy in 2010 and it was impossible not to reflect on my own happiness as a student at ASB. Thus, I have developed a framework to teach happiness, and I plan to further develop it through a Master’s in Pedagogy and eventually a Ph.D.”
This is a story made for the movies! ASB parents and alumni, Stephanie Burkle and Enric (affectionately known as “Henry” at school) Pallares, both met while they were students at ASB, although the pair didn’t officially get together until years later when their paths would cross again.
Born and raised in the US, but with roots on her mother’s side in Spain, Stephanie moved to Barcelona with her family and attended ASB from Grades 6 to 8 from 1990-92, following which she returned to the US to complete high school. Barcelona-born Enric attended ASB from Grades 3 through 12, graduating in the Class of 1995.
Stephanie attended Pace University in New York following high school, studying International Management, and later landed work in New York City. Enric attended INEF University in Barcelona, studying Physiotherapy. Although his passion had always been in sports and he had played on the Barça youth soccer team while at school, he opened an interior design studio after graduation. Later, he joined his family retirement business and is currently the CEO at LactApp Women’s Health, a maternity App that supports women using artificial intelligence.
In 2009, having enough of the intense and chaotic lifestyle in NYC, Stephanie decided to return to Barcelona and secured a position in a textile company, Pronovias, where she has worked for the past 11 years.
“I recall I was out running along La Ronda when I heard someone call out my name. It was Enric. It had been 16 years since we had last seen each other.”
Stephanie recalls she invited Enric to join her to attend a friend’s sister’s graduation ceremony at ASB. She was excited to visit the campus after all these years, and it would be nostalgic to go together with Enric.
“The rest is history!” she laughs.
Today the couple have two children, both of whom attend ASB - Lola in Grade 3 and Valentina in Grade 1.
“It was a natural choice for us. We know the school well, and we wanted to continue the journey we had with our girls. ASB will always be close to our hearts. We have good memories from our time there, and it brought us back together.”
“I attended many different schools worldwide as a child, and the best experience I had was at ASB. Both Enric and I agree that we want our girls to be able to experience everything the school has to offer,” shares Stephanie.
When asked for one word to describe ASB?
Stephanie: “Memorable!”
Enric: “Diverse.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
ASB alumni and parent, Mireia Sureda Gallardo '95, grew up internationally following her father's career with a multinational company. Completing her elementary education in the United States, the Spanish national moved to Athens during her middle school years and finally returned to Barcelona to finish high school at ASB.
"I studied business at ESADE, where I completed my Bachelor's degree and MBA, graduating within the top 5 of my year. Finishing my MBA at NYU Stern School of Business in New York allowed me to launch my career there where I worked for two years in digital marketing and communications before returning to Barcelona."
Today, Mireia is the General Manager of a family business, Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments, a company her father co-founded in Barcelona ten years ago. Starting with responsibilities in e-commerce, marketing, and online distribution, Mireia became General Manager five years ago and now leads a multicultural team across Europe. Her previous work experience includes ten years in marketing at large multinational groups like Lindt & Sprüngli and Groupe SEB.
Offering designer hotel apartments for short term stays in top European cities, Eric Vökel Boutique Apartments are personally designed by the Danish architect and interior designer, Eric Vökel. They offer a new hospitality-concept, fully equipped functionality with Nordic design's beauty and Mediterranean style.
In addition to hotel apartments in Barcelona, Madrid, Amsterdam, and Hamburg, Mireia recently opened their newest development of twenty-one apartments in Copenhagen's Meatpacking District, one of the world's trendiest neighborhoods today.
"We host many families at our apartments, and many friends from ASB have stayed with us. The last ten years have been intense with travel and innovation. We would love to welcome you!"
Growing up in different countries and attending international schools influenced Mireia's life. "As a child, I constantly had to adapt to new environments, which I think made me more flexible and open to change. At ASB, I remember a very caring community with teachers committed to our wellbeing and education. Rosa Ruiz, Mark Smith, Montse Perez, Javier Iranzo, Margarita Vila, and Isabel Puyuelo were all teachers that positively influenced my life. These teachers knew how to make the best out of us and made us feel confident and happy as teenagers. I feel fortunate to have completed my high school years at ASB."
After fifteen years of living in Gràcia raising their young family, Mireia and her husband decided to send Aleix (G5), Marc (G3), and Lea (PK3) to ASB to provide them an international education with an open-minded perspective of the world. "ASB is larger and more international than when I was a student there, but it still maintains the same caring community I remember. The facilities have improved, and the after school and sports programs have expanded. Academically, the biggest improvement has been the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program."
"At ASB, they can meet friends and teachers from different nationalities and backgrounds. We speak Catalan and Spanish at home, and we knew it would be difficult and require a lot of effort for them to learn English in a local school."
Mireia has many good memories from her time at ASB. "Some of my favorite memories are, by far, the ski trips. We had a lot of fun and skied a lot."
"I also remember Mr. DeJohn, our English teacher. We would read Shakespeare with him, and he was a bit wild, so we had loads of fun in his English class. He was really engaging. Today I still like to visit the school and speak with Mr. Smith, Ms. Linda, and Ms. Marta."
Mireia is still connected with some of her best friends from ASB days who meet annually for a class dinner. "It's always great to see them and I really enjoy these gatherings."
When asked to share one word to describe ASB, Mireia replies, "Community."
ASB alumni and parent, Verónica Mimoun '93, is today a successful interior designer with her own Interior Design Studio (@veronicamimounstudio), and the mother of three girls, all of whom attend ASB. "I'm an alumnus. There's something about the school that brings you together; it's very charming."
Verónica attended ASB from PK3 through grade 12, except for a year overseas in grade 11, where she attended school in Pennsylvania. She graduated from ASB in 1993 with a taste for international life. After a year at ESADE in Barcelona, she transferred to the American University of Paris to study Economics and Business Administration.
Returning to Barcelona to assume the role of general manager of a family business, it was 15 years later that Verónica executed her first project which inspired her to follow her three passions - interior design, project management, and financial control - and open her own studio. "ASB provided me with an international background, and through my university studies and work experience, I was able to gain a wide overview and perspective at a time where being international was not common."
When faced with where to send their daughters, Verónica and her husband took time visiting top international schools in Barcelona but felt ASB had all the elements they were looking for. "During our first visit, I could feel the school had grown since I was there, but I still sensed the same family feels in its hallways. The essence of the school has not changed; the teachers continue to be supportive, caring, and willing to do their best for the students."
"I certainly remember each one of my teachers, not only for what they taught me at school but also for what they taught me about life in general, sharing their experiences and creating new ones with us. I am so glad Mr. Smith, my former chemistry teacher, is today teaching chemistry to my 15-year old daughter."
When asked about her favorite ASB memories, Verónica replies, "I've got plenty!! I remember absolutely all of my teachers and I loved when we went on ski trips together."
In her spare time, Verónica is an active volunteer in the school, supporting the Parent Association and Development Committee. "I tend to talk about the school as if it were my business, my home, my family - it's very much a part of me. I’m glad we chose ASB, and that there is the possibility that my girls will also have their children attend the school. It’s a pleasure for me to continue to support and help the school to improve and become even better."
"I am very thankful to the families who chose the American School of Barcelona in its early years as it gave us the chance to have this wonderful, quality school today."
Dr. Josep Domingo-Domenech ‘92 attended The American School of Barcelona his entire school life, together with his two sisters, Eva ‘77 and Cristina ‘82. The fourth generation of physicians in his family, Josep studied medicine at The University of Barcelona, completing his residency in Medical Oncology in Barcelona in 2007, where he initially worked as a Medical Oncologist.
He moved to New York shortly after, where he was a post-doctoral fellow at Columbia University. Now Director of Urology Translational Research at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, Josep currently leads a group of researchers on groundbreaking investigations for innovative cancer treatments. He has previously worked at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in Philadelphia as Director of Prostate Cancer, where the group he led made important discoveries for the treatment of prostate cancer, and at Mount Sinai School of Medicine as an assistant professor.
“The harsh reality faced by many cancer patients motivated me to fully dedicate my career to finding innovative treatments to help improve patients’ lives.”
As a student at ASB, Josep was team captain for the school soccer team trained by Jorge Ruiz and Cheche Reig. The competitive team won three championships in the Barcelona school district, competing against big-school teams like Sant Ignasi.
“At that time, FC Barcelona was an international sensation, affectionately known as the “Dream Team.” We were fortunate to have some extraordinary players, like Marc van de Meer, Jorge Ruiz, Karim Cuberas, Edmond Vidal, Ignasi Esbri, Jorge Esteban - even Jordi Cruyff play some games with us. The camaraderie in the team was exceptional. The experience helped me understand the power of teamwork which I continued to implement during my professional career.”
Josep has great memories from his time at ASB. “My teachers - Ms. McNamee, Ms. Prieto, Mr. Mass, Mr. Sperry, Ms. Ruiz, just to name a few - transmitted their values of open-mindedness and commitment to resilience while inspiring me to search for “excellence” in both my professional and personal life.”
Married to his wife, Veronica Rodriguez-Bravo, a prominent scientist, they are busy raising three young daughters, five-year-old twins, Sarah and Andrea, and 1.5 year old, Aina. “It is incredible to see how fast they grow and develop their competencies!” Josep is also a passionate art lover who enjoys visiting art expositions and collecting art pieces in his spare time.
ASB in one word?
“Genial.”
“ASB brings together a wide mix of cultures which enables students to experience and incorporate the value of these cultures as their own. This unique experience allows students to be open-minded and to develop the necessary flexibility to succeed in a globalized world.”
Barcelonian José Luis (Pepe) Esquerdo attended the American School of Barcelona from 1971 until graduation in 1986. Following graduation, Pepe moved to the United States. He initially attended Springfield College in Massachusetts for his freshman year, later transferring to Northeastern University in Boston to complete his Bachelor in Business Administration with a double major in Finance and Entrepreneurship.
Returning to Barcelona in 1991, Pepe started work in a brokerage house where he was involved in buying and selling stocks. Over the next twenty years, he continued to work in finance, initially in private banking and later in sophisticated mutual funds.
In 2018, Pepe took a leap of faith with a business partner, venturing into the world of entrepreneurism. They set up a company, Churpi, selling natural dog snacks made with yak milk from the Himalayas. Today the company sells thousands of snacks to pet shops, vet clinics, and dog groomers across Europe and Hong Kong.
Pepe's entrepreneurism did not stop there. He is also a partner in a digital content company, Animation Loading SL, which provides virtual reality scenarios for educational purposes. One of his clients is the Catalan police force, which uses the content to train more than 1,500 police officers. Pepe is also rolling out new edutech digital content for other clients' digital platforms.
Today, Pepe stays in touch with the ASB community via his close friendships with former classmates, ASB's Head of Community Service and Activities, Marta Vernet, Paul Oliu, Mani Azarian, Maria Niubo, to name a few, "I never miss our class reunions which we have a couple of times every year." He also continues to join the school's annual International Day event, which has grown to celebrate over 55 nationalities today in the school's community.
He credits his love of world geography to his former teacher, Mr. Roberto Serrano, and his appreciation of the arts to Mr. Bart Srebnick.
One recollection from the 70s Pepe shares occurred at the school's former location, close to Plaza Eusebio Güell, when a construction crane from a neighboring project fell, hitting part of the playground and toilet block. "Fortunately, it was during class, so no one was hurt. The incident was even in the local newspapers!".
Pepe's son is currently following his father's footsteps, studying Business Administration at ESADE. His daughter is finishing up her final year of high school in Barcelona.
Having a school with a rich history like ASB makes connecting with alumni even more enjoyable. Meet Claudio Doria Tölle from the Class of 1980. After Claudio´s family relocated to Barcelona from Peru in 1971, he attended ASB until graduation with his older brother, Mario, who graduated in 1975. Maurizio, their younger brother, completed his education back in Peru; all three brothers now reside and work in Barcelona.
Tell us a little about campus life at ASB when you were a student.
“Campus life was fun. Back then, the school was much smaller and the opportunities to share day-to-day experiences with classmates and friends from different cultures and learn from other ways of living were simply rewarding. There were many activities organized throughout the school year (ski trips, soccer competitions with other international schools from other cities, visits to the US navy ships in port in Barcelona, talent shows, theater, disco dances, etc.) that made school life very different from what other local schools offered at that time. Being educated in both the Spanish and the American system was also enriching. I remember we even drafted and voted a school constitution!”
What was one of your best memories from your time as an ASB student?
“I would say having the opportunity to organize and participate in many initiatives and projects, both curricular and extracurricular. Today you could classify some of them as innovative.”
What did you study after graduating from high school, and which university did you attend?
“I studied Law and graduated from the University of Navarra in Spain.”
Briefly let us know what you do as a profession today.
“I have been a lawyer since 1987. I started working at a medium-sized law firm before moving to Andersen Legal and then to Garrigues, where I became a partner until 2018 when I started my own practice. I specialize in M&A and corporate and commercial law, assisting mainly international clients and closely held companies and acting as secretary to the board of directors of various companies and foundations.”
Are there any teachers/students from your time at ASB that impacted your life or choices you made after high school?
“There are many teachers that impacted my life and choices after high school: Roberto Serrano, Pilar Hernando, Kathy Boigues, Robert Ramsey, among many others. However, I would say that the influence was more from the special mix of the American and Spanish cultures (at a time where Spain was not yet a democracy but opening to the new times) - and from experiencing school and afterschool life with people from many different places, cultures, and religions, with a deep sense of respect for others and differences of opinion. My trip to the United States with the school to the Close Up Foundation also had an impactful influence.”
What do you think ASB does well?
“I think that ASB educates students to become “global citizens” with critical and innovative thinking, initiative, and integrity, with a humanistic approach in the search for academic excellence. The focus on performing arts is the icing on the cake.”
What is one word that you would use to describe ASB?
More than a word, I would say the phrase “enjoying education.”
Hailing from Missouri, Connor McAndrew lived in Barcelona with his family as expatriates from 2007-2009, attending the American School of Barcelona from grades 7 to 9 together with his two sisters, Callahan and Haley. He is currently in his final year of an MBA with a concentration in Business Analytics, Consulting, and Sustainable Enterprise from Arizona State University and plans to work for a management consulting firm upon graduation.
In 2016 Connor completed his bachelor’s degree in Economics and English from DePauw University, following which he secured a 6-month internship in Pune, India. Upon his return to the US, he worked for four years for Cummins Inc, an American multinational corporation.
Recalling experiences from his time at ASB, Connor shares, "There were so many! Ski week in Andorra, the Model United Nations trip to Lisbon, our 8th grade trip to Berlin, to name a few. Through these experiences, I gained a global perspective on the world, made incredible friends, and visited wonderful places. My history teacher, Mr. Sykes, was the one who inspired me to pursue a college education at a liberal arts school."
Asked about his favorite ASB memory, Connor admits it would have to be the ski week in Andorra. "It was my first time snowboarding, and I had a blast spending a week on the slopes with my classmates. We got to explore the city, ski all day, and enjoy a free week without classes."
Connor’s ASB experience will always be a special recollection for him. "The community is so unique. It's vibrant, international, and multicultural, unlike anything I have experienced elsewhere. It is exceptional to see students, parents, and teachers so invested in creating a global space for learning."
ASB in one word?
"Transformational - my time at ASB has had an enduring impact on my life, and I hope to have the opportunity to visit again soon."
We recently caught up with Nestor Cano Sostre, who attended ASB from grades 1 to 9 before moving to the United Kingdom with his family. Nestor's sister, Marina, graduated from ASB with the Class of 2012, later continuing her studies at Brown University. This year Nestor graduated from Stanford University with a major in Symbolic Systems (Systems Engineering), focusing on Human-Computer Interactions. Let's learn more about what he's been up to since ASB.
"Stanford was a great choice of university for me - it has an amazing sports program, so I was able to keep sailing competitively while still receiving rigorous academics."
Tell us more about sailing competitively.
"Everyone in my family is passionate about sailing. At Stanford University I was involved in Varsity Sailing and competed in intercollegiate regattas across the country. I also sailed for the National Spanish Sailing Team with the International Sailing Federation, competing in international events coming 1st in Europa Cup (Poland, 2014) and 20th in the World Championship (Japan, 2014)."
Tell us a little about your field of study.
"I studied cognitive science, neuroscience, sociology, and basic psychology as well as the tools of statistics, computational logic, and computer science to understand the intersection of these subjects and be able to model natural processes in artificial environments."
How were your studies at Stanford affected by the Covid pandemic?
"I only had the last semester of my senior year affected, but unfortunately, I was not able to have a graduation ceremony or say goodbye to my friends. We finished our last zoom call, and a few weeks later received our graduation certificates in the mail."
Now that you've graduated, what are you doing?
"I'm currently a Growth Product Manager for Lotus Flare, a company focusing on digitizing services that used to be physically delivered in person. My current project focuses on maternal health in the Filipino Healthcare space. However, in the new year, I will be moving to San Francisco to join Accenture as an Interaction Development Analyst."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"Recess when the soccer field was still only a dirt field. I also enjoyed talking to teachers as friends. ASB had such a unique family environment that I have not found anywhere else. Everyone was human and down to earth, and even as a young student, I could always speak my mind and talk to any adult respectfully, knowing they would treat my perspective with value and respect. I knew everyone's name, even their last names, from two years above and below me. A lot of parents all knew each other, and it was a community in itself beyond the academic environment."
Any advice for current ASB students approaching university applications and final years of high school?
"I would recommend students start approaching their applications to their chosen universities early. Without enough time, the experience can be overwhelming. In addition to demonstrating their academic, creative, and service experiences within their applications, I would suggest adding supplementary information on additional passions or interests. For me, my application included my experience in sailing. If students can demonstrate something that they have succeeded in passionately that has also positively influenced communities around them, that could be a great asset in their application and help them stand apart from other applicants."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx. #Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Patty Baleyto (2002 - she would have graduated in this class with her friends but she left in Grade 10)
Barcelonian Patty Baleyto attended ASB from 1987 to 2000. Following her passion for international travel, Patty studied Hospitality Management and commenced her career in Luxury Hospitality in the United States. Currently, she works as a Sales Manager for Faena Hotel Miami Beach, a 5 star 4 diamond hotel in Miami, Florida, where she lives with her husband and young daughter, Bianca.
“Being a part of the ASB community was a big part of my life. I made life-long friends and established English as my third language. I traveled multiple times to the United States on school trips, and the school introduced me to another culture besides mine. My American adventure of working and living in Miami, FL, would not have been the same without my years at ASB. The school brought me so many years of joy. I look forward to visiting it soon and showing it to my daughter. ”
Patty fondly remembers ASB ski trips with her classmates and Sports Days, of which she was a big fan. “Playing baseball with Mr. Aguilar is one of my favorite memories!”
Wonderful to connect with Jacob '20 from Seattle, Washington, who attended ASB from G9-12, together with his brother Joshua, who is currently a Junior. While remote learning was not on his mind when he initially applied to Stanford University last year, Jacob is embracing the opportunity to connect and learn virtually with collective minds during his first year. Join us as we catch up with this remarkable young man.
Can you tell us a little about your university choice?
"Stanford originally was not on my radar; I was very set on attending university on the East Coast. I almost decided not to apply as the deadline was January 1st, and the night before, I had been celebrating New Year's Eve. My views changed when I visited Stanford in February, a month after I had applied. I fell in love with the campus and told myself that I had to find a way to study there at some point in my life. After that, I just felt so lucky to be eventually accepted."
How challenging was your senior year at ASB last year amidst the outbreak of the Covid pandemic?
"Although our senior year at ASB did not end the way we had expected, I felt that compared to others suffering from the pandemic, we were rather fortunate. The extra month off coupled with no IB exams was truly a bonus."
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for university studies?
"I feel the IBDP prepared me and others well for university by placing large amounts of pressure on us at a young age, a feat generally reserved for when one only begins the university process."
What experiences or teachers from ASB inspired who you are today?
"Throughout my time at ASB, there are many teachers who played a huge role in my development. With a few exceptions, every teacher I had was both a kind and genuine person, as well as an excellent instructor. They are the kind of people willing to go above and beyond for their students.
There are four teachers, in particular, I would like to mention.
Ms. Michelle made my high school experience so much richer. Besides her positively unique and experienced teaching style, Ms. Michelle has the smoothest rapport with the student body than any other teacher I have ever met (I know I am not alone in this assessment). Whether someone is having a bad day or needs urgent advice, we all go to Ms. Michelle to receive her wisdom and because she has the ability to always make you feel better.
Ms. Corral was my Spanish teacher for all four years of school. Unlike some language teachers, Ms. Corral was always acutely aware of the difficulties of learning a language and always remained positive and gentle in her instruction. In my first year, I remember the way she took care of all the SLL1 students, looking out for us even when she did not have to do so. If only every student had Ms. Corral as their language teacher, learning a language would be much easier.
Mr. Hennessy represents what learning should be. He constantly challenged my perspectives so that I could ground my real convictions in reason. His crusade of spreading cultural knowledge has armed hundreds of students with endless commentary fodder, allowing them to enjoy unique joys in life, like the ability to recite iconic movie lines with adults. Most of all, Mr. Hennessy has made me a much more polished speaker. If you want him to do the same for you and maybe win some silverware along the way, join NESDA!
Coach Tex's positive impact on his players is immeasurable. When most people see Coach Tex, they see the man who turned a winless, hopeless basketball team into European Sports Conference (ESC) Champions (the only ASB team ever to win the award). But when I see Coach Tex, I see a role model for all of his players and students. Playing under Coach Tex has taught me so much about what it means to be diligent, disciplined, and dignified. His embodiment of those traits gives his players the best form of life education, which ironically occurs after school ends."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"My favorite ASB memory was winning the 2019 IBERIAN Basketball Championship in Barcelona. Although our team later went on to win the more prestigious ESC Championship, the IBERIAN Finals holds a special place in my heart as it was our basketball team's first championship win in history. I remember seeing so many parents, teachers, and students at the game, allowing us to share such a special moment with them while we lifted the trophy over CAISL."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"I came to ASB in 9th grade after having been homeschooled for seven years. I didn't really know what to expect. What makes ASB special is its culture of welcomeness. From the moment I arrived at ASB, I felt welcome. Not just by teachers and staff, but also by other students. This feeling of welcomeness is not present in all schools. It requires thoughtfulness to cultivate, and a dedicated effort to maintain."
What are you thinking about doing after graduation?
"At the moment, I either want to work in the fields of politics or artificial intelligence."
Any advice for younger students?
"Isn't it pretty cool you get to be with all of your friends all day, every day at school? Make sure you know it won't last. Enjoy it while you can."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Opportunities."
Thank you for sharing, Jake! We wish you all the very best for your studies at Stanford and also for your future career.
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx. #Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet Marina Silveira Balloni. She graduated from the Class of 2020 and is currently a first-year medical student at the University of Barcelona. Marina attended ASB from grade 8 until graduation. Her two brothers, Lucas (G11) and Rafael (PK4), also currently attend ASB. We sat down to ask Marina about life since ASB.
How prepared were you for life at university after completing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) at ASB?
I was highly prepared. There is so much material to learn over the two years of the IBDP that now at university, I recognize many concepts that I have already covered, making my first months at university easier. The IBDP also taught me to manage my time independently, which was one of the most valuable life skills I learned.
What experiences from ASB influenced your life today?
Three teachers marked my experience at ASB; Ms. Magda, Mr. Whitehair, and Ms. Monds. They all showed empathy in my learning and a high level of interest in my wellbeing and aspirations. I remember long conversations with Ms. Monds guiding us through the DP. She was also an excellent leader and communicator during the conflict with the IB results last year. Ms. Magda supported all our university admissions procedures in Spain, even going as far as to wait outside our selectividad examination to ensure everything ran smoothly. Mr. Whitehair transformed our demanding chemistry class into my favorite lesson from all my IBDP subjects. All my teachers offered support and were excellent at their job, but these three stood out for me, and they certainly contributed to why I can study medicine today at my university of choice.
How has the Covid pandemic affected your current studies? Reflecting on the last school year, what were some of the challenges you faced?
I am lucky to have a university that prioritizes first-year students and allows us to have in-person classes on campus, even though we have to wear masks in class and maintain a two-seat distance between each student. Unfortunately, due to government restrictions, we now have to move to virtual classes for a couple of weeks. We hope to be able to return to campus soon.
Last year, the biggest challenge for me was facing the IB results offered after the IB canceled their exams due to the Covid pandemic. I know I was not alone and that this was a common challenge for many IB students worldwide. Thankfully, the IB resolved this issue with a correction in my results, and I was able to enter my desired degree at the University of Barcelona. The experience taught me perseverance and persistence.
What are some of your favorite memories from ASB?
Honestly, I have many. The memories range from fourth floor sprints to the soccer field to get a cookie from the food truck to being a part of the soccer team and participating in multiple tournaments with my friends. There's also fun memories of picking up some bread from the cafeteria in the 5-minute break between classes. Also unforgettable was our beautiful graduation ceremony that the school organized for us despite the pandemic. I'll always remember reuniting with my classmates after the lockdown to celebrate the years and bonds we created with each other.
Are you still in touch with former classmates?
Thankfully I am in touch with many of my former classmates. Many of my friends went to the United Kingdom to study, for example, Ruben Peláez, who is studying Biochemistry at King's College London, and Carlota Dujo, who is studying Mathematics and Finance at Queen Mary University of London. My good friend, Michelle Brenner, is also studying medicine at the Autonomous University of Madrid, and Victoria Martinez (medicine) and Benjamin Rodriguez (biology) are both studying at the University of Navarra in Pamplona.
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Wonderful to connect with Michelle Brenner from the Class of 2020, who is currently in her first year of medicine at the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM). Michelle attended ASB for ten years, together with her brothers, Rony '11 and Eithan '13. Her family has witnessed quite some history in ASB's halls, with fellow cousins, Noa, Gal, Maaian, and Jonathan Zelman, also having graduated from the school. "We have definitely seen the school change tremendously," she shared. Let's hear more from Michelle as she reflects on last year and life since ASB.
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for life at university?
“I think the IBDP prepared me to work independently and persevere as an expert in each of my subjects. The lab work and data analysis that I worked on in science and as part of my Internal Assessments have proved so useful today. Also, the constant workload in the IB prepared me to keep up with my studies at university. The rigorous curriculum at ASB definitely gave me an advantage when starting university, especially transitioning to a new life in a new city and adapting to all my classes in Spanish.”
What experiences from ASB influenced your life/choices today?
"There are countless teachers that influenced me over the years. The first one I should probably mention is Ms.Tanya. She was my first teacher at ASB and made my transition into learning in English very smooth. I remember her very fondly and hold a lot of appreciation for her. In my more recent years at ASB, Ms.Carter, although no longer teaching at ASB, heavily influenced my choices. My class was the first to carry out the "Sustainable Development Goals" project, and I decided to focus on SDG 3, "Good Health and Wellbeing." This project and Ms.Carter's help and teaching made me realize my passion for medicine. In the IB, all my teachers influenced me in one way or another, but I want to highlight Ms. Monds, Mr. Whitehair, and Ms. Magda. These three teachers cared for me deeply during the IB and were by my side, helping me every step of the way. I'm beyond grateful for their teaching and their dedication to their students, and for never letting me give up on my dreams."
How has the Covid pandemic affected your current studies? Reflecting on the last school year, what were some of the challenges you faced?
"Last year, my biggest challenge was the university application process. Amid the Covid pandemic, I found out I had been accepted into two medical schools in different locations, while at the same time considering where in Spain I wanted to apply (the public university process is handled later around June). It was hard to figure out what the best fit for me was while I was stressing about the IB results, which I had no control over. I received a lot of support from my guidance counselors at school, Ms. Huner and Ms. Magda, and my friends and family. After a lot of self-reflection and an emotional journey with the IB grades and increased entrance grades for UAM, I met the requirements to enter my dream university and now couldn't be happier!"
What are your favorite memories from ASB?
"There are so many! If I had to mention a few, probably our 12th grade Halloween performance, MUN trips such as going to New York or Beijing, or being part of BCNMUN throughout highschool, the volleyball trips and practices. Also, sprinting through campus to get a food truck cookie between classes or in breaks, the endless laughs at lunch sitting with my friends all together, and even just everyday classes - there's not one dull day at ASB. I'll always remember our graduation fondly. Reuniting with my whole class and celebrating our graduation was amazing and unexpected, and something I think our whole class was very thankful for."
What are you thinking to do upon graduation?
"Well, I still have another five and a half years before graduation, so I'm not too worried about it yet, but I'll probably study for the MIR exam to be able to become a specialist in medicine, but no idea what area of medicine I'm interested the most in yet, I have a long way to go!"
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Community."
Thank you so much for taking the time to reconnect with us, Michelle! We wish you all the very best for your future endeavors.
Growing up internationally following her mother’s career with the World Bank, Catalina gained from the rich experiences of living overseas from a young age. After seven years in the Philippines and Indonesia, Barcelona born Catalina returned to Spain with her family and joined the ASB community in Grade 8. “I always felt quite isolated from my extended family while I was in Asia. It was wonderful to finally attend a school where I could greet my family in the corridors.” This year Catalina is pursuing a Physics degree from The University of Chicago. “My father also graduated from this university, and he always talked about his experience there. It was that personal connection that drew me to the university, also knowing their values, their structure - just not the Chicago weather!”
In addition to having a great role model, both Catalina’s parents encouraged her and her brother, Matteo, currently in Grade 10, to learn Mandarin from a young age, something she is grateful for today. “I believe that being fluent in three world languages is going to be advantageous in the future.”
When asked about university life during Covid times, Catalina shared that she has been attending virtual classes in the Paris based campus for the University of Chicago. With stricter Covid measures in Paris, she has now returned to Barcelona for the Winter break. She plans to continue with virtual learning, like many of her European peers, for the next quarter, heading to Chicago in the Spring. “I have my support network here, which is so valuable during times like these.”
At ASB, Catalina participated in the Model United Nations program and helped teach and support younger students in the program. “What I miss the most, though, is my Physics class with Mr. Bartlett. I was fascinated with that class, and to this day, I still think about it. It was the greatest factor that made me want to study physics at university. Mr. Bartlett was always willing to go the extra mile to help us. And all the students were so hardworking. We were like a small community of like-minded people. It was really meaningful for me.”
One word to describe ASB?
“Haven.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Spanish born Pau Brugal Climent ‘20 attended ASB on two occasions, the first in elementary school (G2-4) and the second in secondary school (G7-12). He spent grades 5-7 attending a public school in New York City, where his family had relocated following his father’s work. “The transition was not as hard as I expected. Both schools had similar teaching philosophies and were very diverse. Returning to Spain was easier, though; my family all live in Spain, and I still had many friends at ASB.”
Pau is currently studying for a degree in Philosophy at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. “I remember taking an elective philosophy class with Mr. Alberto - I really enjoyed the class and learning about different philosophers. It definitely sparked my interest in my degree choice and motivated me to investigate more on my own.”
Pau reflects positively on his two-year IBDP experience. “Looking back and now having done one semester at university, I appreciate how much the IB prepared me. The level of discipline that you need to have to complete the IB is a solid preparation for the level of discipline you need for university - as well as a good work ethic and effective study habits.”
Currently living in student halls, Pau is studying remotely this year. “I go to the university library every day. It’s big and always open, and I enjoy doing my online classes there. It’s a bit like an office job, but I like it because it diversifies my day, and I know this way of learning is only temporary.”
Outside of study, Pau has had the opportunity to see some of his new homeland by biking around the numerous bike routes and taking short trips to neighboring cities like Edinburgh and Stirling.
Pau fondly remembers the learning environment at ASB. “My relationship with all my teachers was great. I know they weren’t just there to get through the curriculum but from a real desire to teach us. The teachers connected with us and wanted to teach us. There was a real family feel that made the learning much more enjoyable and engaging.”
When asked for advice for ASB high school students, Pau reflects, “My advice would be to put everything in perspective. The IB is important and but it is one of many stages in your life. Try to reduce some of the pressure on yourself, and you’ll do much better.”
Meet Clara Fauvet from the Class of 2020. She is currently studying medicine with a minor in law at the University of Paris. Clara attended ASB from Grade 10 until graduation. Her siblings, Inès, Félix, Lucile, and Rafaelle, also attend ASB and are currently in grades 12, 7, and 5, respectively. We caught up with Clara to ask about life since ASB.
Can you tell us a little about your choice of university?
"I knew I wanted to study medicine, but I was hesitating between universities in the United Kingdom, Spain, and France, all of which had different requirements - from pre-exams during their application processes, to age restrictions, to the language of instruction for some courses. Finally, after much research, I decided on the University of Paris (Descartes-Diderot), which is a great choice for me despite having a rigorous application process. I would advise ASB seniors to start their university search early, to ask questions, and to persevere to find their perfect university and career path."
How was your senior year at ASB last year amidst the Covid pandemic?
"Since we did not have the actual IB exams last year, I think it was less stressful on the academic side. However, it was very stressful emotionally since we had to deal with all the unknowns of the pandemic. Additionally, our grading system changed for the better for some students and the worst for others. Having our entire subject grade depend on just the Internal Assessment, and being slightly influenced by teachers' predicted grades was definitely a surprise. We were also anxious about the universities themselves. However, with patience, perseverance, and hard work, we were all able to make it. I believe we all learned that you need to work consistently during the IBDP and not just depend on IB exams. We also learned to be proactive and to adapt to complex situations."
How have you commenced your studies this year at university with the Covid restrictions?
"Most of our classes this year are online, which is not too bad since it enables us to rewatch the lessons and focus more. We are quarantined again in France at the moment; however, since it is our revision month before the exams, it does not really affect us."
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for university studies?
"I feel like the IBDP benefited me. Although I didn't take physics, which slightly disadvantaged me compared to other French students in medicine, my other subjects - chemistry, biology, and psychology HL - provided me with an excellent base for my current lessons. The IBDP also helped me develop lifelong skills like hard work, dealing with pressure, individual and group work, as well as the capacity to make connections between different subjects."
What from ASB influenced your life/choices or inspired who you are today?
"ASB made me grow as a person and shaped who I am today. Thanks to the different language & literature classes like Spanish A with Mr. Alberto or English with Mr. Petrillo and Ms. Thompson, I learned to be more open-minded and critical. Thanks to Psychology HL with Ms. Kurtz, I improved my critical thinking skills and gained a better understanding of human cognition and behavior, which increased my interest and desire to become a psychiatrist. Thanks to Chemistry and Biology HL, with the amazing Mr. Whitehair, Mr. Llamazares, and Mr. Motta, I was able to become more hard-working, to overcome challenges, and to mix theory and practice."
"ASB also gave me great opportunities to participate in internships and travel for school. I participated in many Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, which helped me build public speaking skills, confidence, and awareness of world issues. I also completed an internship at the Institute of Oncology of Catalonia with Ms. Marta. I learned a lot about cancer research and how to work as a scientist. Finally, my favorite experience was the medical mission to Peru, during which we were able to work with many American doctors as translators. We helped many less privileged people for two weeks, one week in a hospital and the second on a boat on the Amazon River."
"ASB also gave me amazing friends, who helped me become myself, survive the IBDP, gain confidence and maturity, as well as balance and joy. I am very thankful for them."
Any advice for younger students?
"You only live once!" :) "Do what makes you happy. Make sure you work hard to achieve what you want and help others achieve their goals too."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Originally from Denver, CO, Eden Gill ´20 lived with her family for 13 years in the United States before moving to Barcelona four years ago in 9th grade. Today she would consider Barcelona as one of her homes. “I feel like living there presented me with new perspectives, opportunities, and a community that has helped to shape who I am today.”
Currently in her first year of Applied Medical Sciences at University College London (UCL), Eden hopes to continue her studies in the medical science field and to pursue a career in medicine or biotechnology.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“There were several experiences and teachers who inspired me throughout my time at ASB. Refugart showed me how a community can come together to make change and impact the world in a positive way. Being a part of the Refugart executive team, lead by Ms. Marta Vernet, in 10th and 11th grade was a moving and rewarding experience. Additionally, serving as a medical translator in Peru, with Ms. Marta, Mr. Whitehair, and Mr. Orlic, opened my eyes to health care and economic needs of rural communities and the challenges to provide adequate health services for these populations. These two experiences definitely played a large role in my decision to focus on the medical sciences in university and possibly pursue a career in medicine in the future.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I played for the ASB varsity girls soccer team from 10th -12th grade, which was such a rewarding and fun experience! I was so lucky to be a part of such a great team of girls and coaches and to have so many memories playing with them. Additionally, I was a part of the BCNMUN executive team in 11th grade. Both of these experiences taught me a lot about time management, teamwork, and allowed me to meet new people and have unforgettable opportunities.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“My favorite ASB memory would be winning the 2020 IBERIAN soccer tournament. It was a goal that I and many other girls had as it was our last ASB tournament. After months of preparation and dedication, it was great to see our hard work pay off and to see how we all came together to win our last tournament. I will always remember the feeling of winning in penalties and also the unforgettable memories we had off the field. It was a perfect way to end an era.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“What makes ASB special to me are the people that are a part of the community. The friendships and connections I have made during my time at ASB are truly one of a kind. The teachers and staff have done such a great job culminating this sense of community in the student body and truly being there and caring for all of their students, which I think is a quality that makes ASB so unique.”
Any advice for ASB high school students?
“Figure out what you are passionate about! There are so many outlets and opportunities presented to ASB students to learn and pursue what they are interested in through teams, clubs, trips, classes, teachers, etc. Take risks, try new things, and step out of your comfort zone!”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Pablo González Rubio '20 is currently studying Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom.
"I really liked Economics at ASB. I had great teachers who made us engage in real and thoughtful conversations, going beyond what had to be covered for the IB Curriculum. I wanted to go to class. It was great."
Pablo attended ASB in Grades 11 and 12. "My father also studied the International Baccalaureate and highly recommended it. That's what attracted us to ASB. It had a mature and robust IBDP program, and we felt the school was preparing students from early on."
Pablo's younger brother, Santi, follows his brother's footsteps, joining the ASB community this year in Grade 11.
Pablo is pleased to be connected with another ASB alumni at the University of Warwick, Carlota '19, who is currently in her second year.
"Choosing to attend ASB has been one of the best decisions of my life. The IBDP required hard work and consistency, but the hard work was outweighed by the exceptional friends I made, the outstanding teachers and staff at ASB, and the supportive environment."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born in India, Antra Johary '20, attended ASB for five years, from 8th grade through 12th. "I lived in Bangalore for thirteen years before moving to Barcelona. I would call Bangalore one of my homes and Barcelona my other. Identifying myself with the two places gives me two very different perspectives of life and society; something I appreciate deeply." Antra's younger brother, Advay, is currently a ninth-grader at ASB. Now in her first year studying aerospace engineering at the Technical University of Delft in the Netherlands, Antra took time out to share some reflections from her time at ASB.
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for university studies?
"I wasn't sure what to expect in my studies due to its specific nature. However, I found that most of the foundations of my classes were topics I had covered in the IBDP."
How challenging was your senior year at ASB last year amidst the outbreak of the Covid pandemic?
"Personally, my senior year and my university applications were not as affected as others since my university's admissions process did not depend on the final IB grades but instead on their own selection procedure."
What experiences or teachers from ASB inspired who you are today?
"A major part of my high school experience was being a part of the Model United Nations (MUN) program. During the IB, I took an active role in BCNMUN as first the USG of Administration and later the Secretary-General. This provided me with the opportunity to work alongside Ms. Villanueva. The experience in itself was very rewarding; however, watching Ms. V work with us, along with the many other things she was in charge of, was inspiring.
I also believe I owe a lot to the math and physics teachers I've had at ASB. My interest (almost passion at this point) for both these subjects would not have been this strong if it weren't for their passion and their way of making these subjects so engaging.
I want to mention Mr. Coyle, my math teacher in 9th grade. Because of him and the way he made the subject so interesting, I decided to pursue a career related to math. My second shoutout would go to Mr. Wager and Mr. Bartlett. They both are exceptional teachers, who (you could tell) really enjoyed the subject and are the reason I am studying engineering today."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities you were involved in.
"As part of the MUN program, I learned and improved on a lot of the soft skills necessary today. From public speaking to working in a team, to (in the end) leading a team. For a year, three students (myself included) also taught MUN to 8th grade as their elective. It was quite a learning process for me too as every week while planning for a lesson, we battled with making the class fun and interesting yet informative, all while letting the students know that this environment is one where they can take risks."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"Without a doubt, the people. From teachers to the staff and the students themselves. Coming from my school in India, I never thought I would have such a comfortable relationship with my teachers like I did at ASB. Being an international school, I guess we are used to seeing students come and go, but I don't think we give the students enough credit for being as open and welcoming as we are/were."
How have your university studies been affected by the Covid pandemic?
"All my lectures, classes, and exams are online. However, since I attend a technical university, I have been fortunate to have had two days a week in my faculty to conduct experiments and projects with my mentor group. Unfortunately, due to the rise in Covid cases, the Netherlands has decided to shut down all on-campus days."
What are you thinking about doing after graduation?
"Although nothing is set in stone, I know I want to end up working in a field that helps towards the goal of global sustainability. I definitely want to continue studying for a master's, either in the field of aerospace or otherwise. The aviation and space industry contributes to pollution in the atmosphere and in space too. The aspect of space waste or space debris really intrigues me (and is also one of the factors that made aerospace an attractive choice for me), and working towards a solution for it (as there are none at the moment) is something I am very interested in."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Although your time at your university will be nothing short of amazing, cherish this time because you will miss it (especially small things like a meal you don't have to cook yourself). Surround yourself with friends you love because nothing brings a smile to my face like face-timing a friend from ASB. Try your best at everything you do, and you'll be more than fine... just don't procrastinate too much!"
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Growth."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet Mireia Lladó '20, who attended ASB for 15 years since PreKindergarten 3, together with her brother, Adria Lladó '16. With roots in Bolivia, Mireia has lived her entire life in Barcelona. This year she started studying Graphic Design at the University of the Arts London. While some of her classes have shifted online due to Covid19, Mireia also attends some lectures in person and can use university facilities.
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for university studies?
"The IBDP allowed me to grow as a student - through open-mindedness, learning valuable skills like critical thinking and communication. All attributes that help me to excel in many of my classes today - especially since Graphic Design is all about working with others, receiving constant feedback, and pushing myself to improve."
What experiences from ASB inspired who you are today?
"Being a part of Model United Nations (MUN) helped me to become an outspoken person and a great communicator, I'm not afraid of expressing my voice regarding my ideas and opinions. MUN truly inspired me to become more global, opened minded, and sparked an interest in me to engage in ways to improve our world."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities at ASB.
"During my time at ASB, I had the pleasure of being a part of the BCNMUN executive team for two years consecutively, as well as the varsity girls soccer team throughout all of high school. Both experiences allowed me to grow as a person and exposed me to meet many people, pushing me out of my comfort zone."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"Although having many memories at ASB, my favorite memory would have to be winning the 2020 IBERIAN soccer tournament. Through blood, sweat, and tears, I couldn't have been prouder of my team, seeing how all the hard work we had gone through that year had finally paid off, and we were able to bring the trophy back home. It was a very heartfelt moment and a perfect way to say goodbye to my time as an ASB athlete."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"ASB is a community like no other. You truly make friends for life, create bonds with teachers, and staff which makes ASB a home to treasure for life."
What are you thinking about doing after graduation?
"After graduation, I hope to work in the field of design and hopefully branch out into the fashion industry."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Always push yourself to improve and never give up. Although it may be tough, it will all pay off in the end. Enjoy the time you have with your friends and treasure every moment."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Family."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet Asia Mikulska '20, who attended ASB for 15 years, since PK3. With roots in Warsaw, Asia was raised in Barcelona. "I wouldn't limit myself to calling only one place home," she shares, "home is where you feel secure and loved." Asia's sister, Pola '17, is currently completing her degree in Business and Marketing from the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom. Asia started her degree in psychology at Radboud University in The Netherlands this year and is "enjoying it, enormously!"
Tell us about any service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"In the summer of 2019, I joined 'OPWALL,' a two-week service trip to Indonesia with Mr. Motta. We assisted researchers with their data collection, living one week on the land working in a forest and the other week on a beach. It was great to bond with other international students from Australia. Still, most importantly, we were able to see how locals enjoyed their lives and were happy even though they were much less privileged than we were."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"It would have to be a volleyball tournament in Geneva, Switzerland. We stayed with a host family who was supposed to drive us to the school the next morning for a game. However, the next morning, when we woke up we noticed that no one else was awake, and since it was already late, we had to get to the school by ourselves. It was truly an experience, being stressed in an unknown city and finding our way to our destination. At last, we were pretty late, but we made it."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"There is an exceptional connection between students and teachers at ASB, which makes it feel like a family and inspires students to go to school every day, even when we aren't feeling our best."
What are you thinking about doing after graduating from university?
"I'm still not quite sure; psychology is a vast topic. I initially opted for psychology because I enjoyed it during my last two years of high school, and I was interested in sports psychology (from playing volleyball for so long and experiencing different situations). I am still discovering the multiple careers I can pursue after graduating from university."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Hand in everything on time and start every assignment early; this will help with time management and help you avoid stress. Most importantly, don't leave anything to the last minute!
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Meet Jian Domingo Mirapeix '20, who attended ASB from her freshman to senior year. Jian's older brother, Àlex, graduated from the Class of 2015 and is today an aerospace engineer. In addition to English, Jian also speaks French, Catalan, and Spanish. She currently lives in Switzerland, studying for her Bachelor of Science in International Hospitality Management at Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne. Fortunately for Jian, despite Covid restrictions, many of her classes continue in person.
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for university studies?
"Thanks to the IBDP, I've been able to keep my organized work ethics to complete my studies with success."
What experiences from ASB inspired who you are today?
"During the IBDP, I participated in many community service opportunities within the hospitality industry. These experiences enhanced and motivated me, even more, to start studying what I truly liked."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I was very involved in community service at school (which I won an award for during my Graduation Ceremony). The list below describes some of the community service programs."
Cooking Classes
I taught Elementary and Middle School students to cook in English at The American School of Barcelona as an extracurricular program.
CIS University Fair
I volunteered at the CIS University Fair, organizing the event and settling university representatives as they arrived and left.
"Comemos Juntos" ("Dining Together")
I took Middle School students to eat and bond with Elders or people with Down syndrome as an Individual Community Service Project based in Barcelona.
Oak House School Uniform Sale
I organized the sale of second-hand school uniforms and donated funds raised to Sant Joan de Deu Hospital.
Centre Obert Esquitx
I collaborated with a non-profit organization in Barcelona where we organized street activities at El Raval, one of Barcelona's poorest neighborhoods.
Refugart
I participated in Refugart, a non-profit campaign that The American School of Barcelona created. We sold art created by ASB students and later sent funds raised to refugees.
Dinners That Matter
I welcomed guests at "Dinners That Matter," a non-profit organization that collaborates with Barcelona restaurants to collect money for sub-kitchens.
Fundación NEPP
I worked with a non-profit organization that helped organize events to collect money for poor people in Africa. Helped organize and participated in a service trip to Mozambique in 2020.
Rotary Interact
I participated in Rotary Interact, a community service program in Barcelona, where we collected money to donate to charities.
"Food For All"
I collected and distributed fresh food to homeless people in Barcelona, Spain, in this individual community service project.
Clean Camp Climb
I participated in a beach cleanup with other classmates from school.
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"All the times spent with my close friends who I miss a lot. At ASB, I found some people with who I've been best friends for more than four years, and even though we don't study together anymore, our friendship continues to be strong. To be fair, I also miss those 8:55 am Paninis from the food truck, which I ate while sprinting to Homeroom!"
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The people are so unique. Both students and staff all have different backgrounds; it makes it interesting to learn within such a diverse community. There are also different nationalities and races, so culturally diverse that it makes it very easy to integrate, especially if you come from a different country."
What are you thinking about doing after graduation?
"I'm not sure yet in which aspect of Hospitality I want to focus on since I just started my hospitality degree. However, hopefully, something related to Food and Beverage as it's one of my favorite topics here at the moment."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Enjoy your last years before becoming an adult. Being an adult may seem fun, but it comes with huge responsibilities, especially those moving out of your parents' homes. Spend time with your family - trust me, I didn't, and regret it because now I'm not allowed to go back home to see them because of Covid-19. Also, work hard. Get those high grades and pick a career that you're passionate about. Don't pick something that just seems cool because you'll suffer in college if you do that. I've been blessed by my parents, who allow me to study Hospitality, something I've been passionate about for years."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"ASB is a family. People you meet there will always be there for you, which makes the ASB experience so much nicer. You will never feel alone there; you will always have someone to turn to when you need it. Either a friend or a teacher or staff."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#ASBTogether #Lynx4Life
Meet Adrianus Pont '20, currently studying Aerospace Engineering at the Delft University of Technology in The Netherlands. Born to an Iranian mother and a Dutch father, Adrian grew up in the United States before moving to Barcelona in Grade 7. "I decided to apply to Delft because it isn't easy. I wanted a true challenge: a way to push myself to new limits. Over the next handful of years, I hope to realize my full potential as not only a student but more as an individual."
Although Adrian admits that aerospace engineering has never been a true passion, he has always found engineering quite interesting. "I always did well in physics, and the nuance of its application to flight really does intrigue me," he shares.
When asked to comment on his learning journey at ASB, Adrian gives credit to his high school Spanish teacher, Ms. Corral. "Through her constant reinforcement and encouragement, I learned to apply myself to goals and realized that taking the path of least resistance wasn't always the path to self-fulfillment."
Adrian reflects on all the positive experiences and friendships from his time at ASB. "It would not do justice to pick out a single best time from my years at ASB."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx.
#ASBtogether #Lynx4Life
Meet Daniel Riechmann ‘20, who attended ASB for 12.5 years from pre-kindergarten. Daniel was born in the United States, where his parents were both working at the time; however, he returned to Barcelona with his family when he was five years old. “I’m entirely grateful for the trajectory of my life because I know that it is quite unique,” he shared. Today Daniel is studying Mechanical Engineering at the Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands. “I love it here; it’s an extensive degree, so I have a lot of opportunities to specialize in what I want, which I think is great.”
Daniel was interested in engineering from a young age. With both parents’ biologists, he took biology in Grade 9 but realized it wasn’t for him. “Physics has always been a favorite subject, so mechanical engineering was a natural choice.”
Fortunately for Daniel, this year at university, he has attended some in-person classes on campus. “For my first elective, I chose Pulsar Navigation, which involves designing a spacecraft component that uses signals from electromagnetic stars to locate itself in space. It’s exciting designing the 3D model and coming up with an algorithm - I’m having a great time.”
When asked about his experiences at ASB, Daniel comments, “I genuinely think one of the best things ASB has is a phenomenal group of science teachers. I think they are incredibly dedicated and, at least in my experience, they go above and beyond what is expected of them to make sure that all their students succeed.”
He continues with a shout out for physics teacher, Mr. Bartlett, “this man is solely responsible for a lot of my success here just because he is such an amazing physics teacher. I’m incredibly grateful to him.”
Extracurricular activities like Model United Nations, student council, and RefugArt were important for Daniel as a student at ASB. His RefugArt group was able to help raise more than 30,000 Euro in two years for the Mediterranean Refugee Crisis. Many of these high school experiences helped him gain confidence in communication and public speaking. Today Daniel is a part of the debating association at Eindhoven and hopes to join the board next year.
When asked to recall a favorite memory from ASB, Daniel laughs as he recalls a time with his best friend when they borrowed Mr. Hennessy’s laptop to play some “inappropriate” music while he was out of the classroom. “We thought we were so smug but were caught on CCTV on Friday and asked to come in on Monday...we were so scared over the weekend and fully expected a reprimanding, but Mr. Hennessy thought it was funny, and I’ll never forget that.”
One word to descibe ASB?
“Fulfilling.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx.
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Spanish born Claudia Sánchez Ballester '20 attended ASB in Grades 7-8 and Grades 11-12. She is currently studying Business Management at ESADE in Barcelona. Claudia's two younger sisters, Natalia and Emma, are currently in Grade 12 and 7, respectively. "I call Spain home because I was born and raised here. However, Colorado, USA, where I lived for two years, definitely has a special place in my heart."
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"ASB has incredible teachers. They helped me become the person I am today. Mr. López and Mr. Santi always put so much love and energy into their work. I always looked forward to their classes and enjoyed every minute of them."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"I think the teachers at ASB play a significant role in building a strong and close community. I always felt cared for and understood by my teachers. Not only are the student-teacher connections admirable, but also the teacher relationships with their colleagues and parents."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities.
"I have participated in many extracurricular and service activities. These include playing on the soccer and cross country teams, leading the Women's Day assembly in 2019, and being an Eco Club member. I truly miss doing all these things!"
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"My friends and I would love spending time in the school cafeteria. It was a special time of the day because we were all taking different classes in the IB, so we could not see each other as often as we would have liked. Lunchtimes were precious to us and went by so quickly. At times we'd be so engrossed in conversations that Mr. Santi would have to tell us to hurry up."
What are you thinking about doing after graduating from university?
"I would like to move to another country to undertake a Master's in entrepreneurship. Eventually, I would like to start my own business."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Take care of the people around you and make people feel loved and welcomed. It's important to be able to count on one another. Express gratitude to those around you, even for the smallest actions/things. Let your friends know that you appreciate their company. Let your family know that their constant support keeps you motivated. Little things like these can help strengthen the bonds you have at ASB to last a lifetime."
ASB in one word?
"Life-changing."
Anything else you would like to share?
"I cannot wait to give back to the ASB community one day for all it has given me."
Paris-born Carla Amorós Thiercy’20 attended ASB for 12 years. She is currently studying Media and Culture at Utrecht University in The Netherlands. While most of her classes are taught remotely, she is grateful for some small group study sessions and activities with students from her course. Carla’s mother, Ms. Valerie Thiercy, is the assistant to the ECC and Elementary School Principals at ASB.
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for university studies?
“I could not have been more prepared. After completing the two-year IBDP, I had acquired all the writing, studying, and critical thinking skills that I needed to be ready for university. IB is a very challenging program, but once you’ve gone through it, you are beyond ready for whichever academic path you choose ahead of you.”
How challenging was your senior year at ASB last year amidst the outbreak of the Covid pandemic?
“My senior year changed radically with Covid. We were sent home indefinitely after our mock exams and after that, everything was online. Thankfully I had already submitted all of my Internal Assessments, Extended Essay, and Theory of Knowledge essay.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB inspired who you are today?
“Teachers who have inspired who I am today include Ms. Tessa, Ms. Meg, Ms. Austin, Mr. Petrillo, Ms. Giudici, and Ms. Michelle. These teachers all had a special impact on my years at ASB and I am so thankful for having been their student.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I participated in several Model United Nations conferences, including BCNMUN and THIMUN. They were honestly the best extracurricular activities I could ever have been a part of. Having the opportunity to travel with friends and connect with hundreds of other international students regarding numerous global issues was very eye-opening.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I still remember how my best friend, Jian Domingo, and I would stress over every single Biology exam. We both took Biology HL and would study for hours and hours, and before the exam, we would always ask our teacher, Mr. Motta, if the test was hard. Naturally, it always was.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“I would say that what makes ASB special are the teachers. The teachers I have had since 1st grade up until 12th grade have all been special and made ASB a very welcoming place. Furthermore, the moments that I shared with my friends who I have known since I was six years old and who I have grown up with have helped shape who I am today.”
What are you thinking about doing after graduation?
“I aspire to work in the world of cinema and film production.”
Any advice for ASB high school students?
“There is one skill all high school students must strive for: finding a balance between your academic and social life. Having good grades and studying is as important as spending time with your friends and family, so remember to maintain that balance!”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Unique.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx! #Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
After a year in boarding school in the United States in Grade 9, Spanish born Clara Ventura Cabarrocas ‘20 returned to Barcelona and joined the ASB community in Grade 10. She is currently studying Medicine at the University of Navarra.
“I miss going to school. There were many days I was super excited to go to ASB, even though I had a lot of work. Seeing my friends and learning was exciting. Having teachers who cared for us as students made all the difference.”
Despite the current Covid challenges, Clara has been able to attend classes in-person at university. “The only difference this year is that we will not be able to participate in summer courses abroad,” she shared. However, she is enjoying the program immensely and is very pleased with her decision to follow her heart to study Medicine.
“My favorite memory from ASB would probably be our graduation because it was so emotional. I have such a strong connection with our school community. It feels like family.”
Service has always been something Clara has gravitated towards. In addition to supporting the RefugArt program at school, she was also involved in a local organization, El Banc dels Aliments, which provides food to people in need in Barcelona.
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Barcelona born and raised, Joan Verdet Mallofré ’20, spent 15 years at ASB, starting his learning journey in PK3 when the school was a very different campus than today. Now an undergraduate at The University of Stirling in Scotland studying Marketing and Psychology, Joan is adjusting to living abroad and being “the international surrounded by locals,” an experience that Joan shares is “interesting since it completely flips the perspective I've always had.”
“The Scottish accent is a little hard to get used to, but the Scottish people are really friendly, warm, and welcoming,” Joan shared. Although the Covid pandemic has restricted his first year on campus, Joan has met and connected with other students in his residence. “They all think I’m American,” he chuckles. That doesn’t come as a surprise after so many years at ASB.
Reflecting on teachers at ASB, Joan recalls his early year teachers, Ms. Christina, Ms. Meg, and Ms. Ann, all of whom are still teaching at ASB. “They’ve seen me grow up - not only from 90 cm to 1m 95’ but also from playful toddler to a capable individual.” He also mentions the positive interactions he had with his middle school teachers Ms. Lindsay and Ms. Austin, and high school teachers Taylor Bingle and Santi Bragulat. “The staff at ASB are so nice. They make an effort to know who you are and, in the IB, even become more like friends. There is a deep connection that helps make them so approachable, which is essential at what may seem a very stressful moment in life."
Joan shared that he was not the type of student to go for really high grades at ASB, but he would do his best as long as he was satisfied with his results. Subsequently, he didn't tend to stress out as much as his classmates. “I believe it’s important to have control over your time, mental health is essential, and if you’re in control of your studies, you’ll be fine, I don’t doubt that.”
Having grown up and graduated from ASB, now that he is living abroad, Joan has been able to reflect on the benefit of his upbringing. “I was very fortunate to go to school every day in such an international and diverse environment, surrounded by people who bring perspectives, thoughts and opinions that only help grow my own. I only realize that now.”
When asked for one word to describe ASB, he responds, “Home. It'll always be my home.”
Meet Maegan Wijsman '20, who attended ASB for 12.5 years after moving to Barcelona from Johannesburg, South Africa, with her Dutch mother and Surinamese father. In her first year at the University of Amsterdam studying Media and Culture, Maegan, like many other university students worldwide, has been following her classes remotely due to the Covid pandemic.
How prepared were you after completing the IBDP for your university studies?
"The IBDP taught me how to manage my time wisely under stress and pressure, something that is crucial in university. It also taught me to persevere. I felt very prepared."
What from ASB inspired who you are today?
"From my first day at ASB as a 6-year-old to the moment I graduated from high school, ASB teachers have always supported me, both academically and personally. I have gained skills and confidence from them that I will carry for the rest of my life. ASB teachers have shown me that although you might not be exceptional in every subject, everyone is good at something."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities you were a part of at ASB.
"I was a part of the ASB Soccer team for eight years and team captain my senior year, an experience that helped shape the person I am today. Being a part of a sports team teaches you valuable life lessons such as communication, patience, and working together to achieve an overall goal. I still view my teammates and coaches as family and people who share a large and beautiful part of my ASB time."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"My top two would probably be our annual Halloween celebrations, and my high school graduation, which was the best I had ever seen, amazingly put together despite the pandemic."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"ASB is a community. I have seen it grow over the years, continually expanding and gaining new students, yet teachers always know who you are. As a student, you always feel cared for and acknowledged."
What are you thinking about doing after graduation?
"I would like to take a year to travel and support charity/volunteering programs. After that, I would be interested in working in the area of Communications."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Two things -
Do not procrastinate!! Especially IB students, you do yourself a great favor when you work in advance or complete an assignment the day you receive it. Do not leave anything for the last minute.
Be proactive. In our world today, there are many, many injustices. You might think that your voice is small and won't make a change because you're young and still in school, but it is the complete opposite. The possibilities are endless - you are never too young to stand up for what's right, and your voice can be the smallest missing piece to a big puzzle that will make a change. Be loud and dream big!"
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Community."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Originally from China, Grace Wang '20 attended the American School of Barcelona from grades 6 to 12. "I can't help but feel nostalgic towards Barcelona and call it my second home."
Currently pursuing a BA at Leiden University in the Netherlands, Grace studies Arts, Media, and Society within the Honors College program while working part-time in an art startup agency in the Hague. She plans to further her education by applying for a master's program in the Netherlands, either in contemporary art or gender studies. She is also interested in returning to Barcelona to study its rich local art scene.
When asked to reflect on her former teachers at ASB, Grace shares, "I want to give a big shoutout to Ms. Monds and Ms. Ana for aiding my IB journey. I don't think I could have obtained my diploma without their thorough guidance. I also really appreciate Mr. Hennessy's IB History classes and the never-ending presentations we had to give – my public speaking skills are so much better as a result!"
While a student at ASB, Grace was involved in community service at a local hospital and an active member of Model United Nations. "I still remember Mr. Maas giving us unconventional aspects to tackle to perfect our arguments."
In grades 11 and 12, together with her good friend, Ori Brand, she was one of the GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) club's founders. They would organize weekly sessions to discuss LGBTQIA+ topics with their peers. "We helped raise awareness of the LGBTQIA+ community. It was enjoyable to see students from different grades coming together and sharing their insights on serious issues."
Grace fondly recalls her Biology class revision with Dr. Tracy Power in 10th grade. "I felt the teachers at ASB truly cared about us and wanted us to succeed."
"ASB has a very international environment that embraces diversity. As a student, I felt I was part of a unique and close-knit community."
Inés Bermúdez-Cañete Cagigos from the Class of 2019 completed her two-year IBDP at ASB and is now studying business management in English at ESADE University in Barcelona.
"After completing the IBDP, I felt more prepared than some of my classmates at university, especially managing stress and workload."
Inés shared how her IB studies allowed her to discover her passion for business and economics and let her glimpse into how her future in commerce could look.
"Studying at university during the Covid pandemic is not easy for anyone. "I have had to stop attending all my classes and shift to virtual learning," she shares, "it is frustrating not being able to connect with my professors in person. My university experience has completely changed."
When asked what her favorite memories from ASB are, Ines recalls her relationships with classmates and teachers.
"Being able to connect with them at ASB was so different from relationships at my previous school, which was British. I enjoy the American way of learning, allowing students more freedom to express themselves and ask questions."
While Inés is not yet sure what she plans to do upon graduating from university, she knows that she will have plenty of options with her current degree and is eager to start work.
One word to describe ASB?
"Diverse."
Great reconnecting with you, Ines! We wish you all the very best on your journey ahead. Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
Meet Mathis Burnichon, who attended ASB for six years and graduated in 2019. He is currently studying Mathematics with Finance at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. “I’m an incoming summer analyst at BlackRock in London, joining the risk management division.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Chess club with Mr. Wager during lunchtimes. NESDA tournaments and practices; impromptu speech, even though it stressed me out, and debate.
I enjoyed mathematics, physics, computer science, and economics classes the most. I like things that follow a logical approach, that are robust and daring in describing the world around us.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities you were involved in at ASB.
“For my CAS project, I was a French, English, and Spanish translator at a tourism firm. Although languages are not my passion, I used the opportunity to network with the CEO, staying behind multiple times to discuss the workings and driving philosophy of the then-hot new cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. This led him to recommend me as a speaker to a panel at IESE Business school, at which I gave a talk to MBAs later that year.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The teaching and evaluation style. After being taught in the French, the European, and then ASB’s IBDP system, I can say that I find the latter most effective overall. In most of my classes, there was always leniency in how to go about answering a question; new approaches were encouraged, the IB grading scheme often includes multiple methods. The freedom to be a little creative in your workings and achieve marks for logical reasoning rather than only for following the taught method gives students a reason to try everything they know when faced with a complex problem.
Regarding the teaching style, once again, liberty and leniency play a key role. At ASB, teaching is done through everything from class games to traditional textbook reading. Often, the teaching style is adapted to the method that will leave the student with the most knowledge. An excellent example of this in economics was the school Economics Fare, a free market simulation. What better way to understand incentives and theories than to have the students feel them in the marketplace?”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Freedom.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Barcelona native, Adriá Chimenos, attended ASB for eight years before graduating in 2019. His parents' decision to move him from a local school to ASB in Grade 5 was to immerse him into an English speaking education system that would later allow him more opportunities to attend university abroad. "I can say that had I not attended ASB, I would not be currently studying in London."
In his second year studying International Management at King's College London, Adriá, like many other university students worldwide, has momentarily shifted to virtual classes due to the Covid pandemic. "Nonetheless, I am pleased to be back in my home city as there is no place like Barcelona."
Which teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"Mr. Whitehair, Mr. Alberto, and Mr. Bartlett all shaped me tremendously as a student and, more importantly, as an individual. Their advice, methodologies, way of working, as well as their care and passion, inspired me daily to achieve my full potential throughout the IB."
Tell us a little about any service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I was involved in volunteer opportunities through organizations such as Sharing to Learn, REFUGArt, and Bridging Through Art."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"ASB graduation was a memory that will stay with me forever. We had finished our IB exams and were about to go on our graduation trip. Graduation felt like the ideal closure of a stage that has been so important in my life, and I am grateful for how it was organized. Teachers, parents and students, all came together to say goodbye. My classmates and I were thankful for what those years in ASB meant to all of us."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The closeness and mutual respect in teacher-student relationships are, without doubt, the greatest qualities at ASB. The school creates an environment in which students feel comfortable in class, want to participate, and are encouraged to use all their capabilities. Furthermore, I'd consider that the type of friendships you develop at ASB are also unique. I still regularly meet up with my friends from my ASB, an essential part of my life. It is the balance between academic and social life that makes being a student at ASB so unique."
What are you thinking about doing after graduating from university?
"Next year, I have the option to undertake a full-time industrial placement in an organization and have already secured a position within Volkswagen Group UK. I will be taking on the role of Operations Support Executive. I am confident that having real-life experience within the automotive industry in a company of Volkswagen's caliber will assist me in finding my passion and future aspirations."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"This might sound a bit cliché, but literally, I would recommend enjoying the routine. Having lived in London last year, I realized that having so much liberty is enjoyable but challenging. The routine of school - being with friends, being with teachers that deeply care, having an organized day-to-day schedule - is something that I value and really miss."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Wholesome."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Italian Yannick Manzoni ‘19 attended ASB from Grades 8 to 12. Now in his second year at Hotelschool The Hague (Amsterdam campus), he is pursuing a degree in hospitality and business management.
“I want to thank all the incredible teachers and students that I met during my years at ASB. I hope to be able to visit soon and have an amazing class reunion!”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Mr. Bingle was definitely one of the teachers that impacted me the most. He always showed up with a smile and made my History and TOK classes a lot of fun.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was really inspired by Refugart, a fundraising event, where students and teachers came together to raise money for refugees by spreading awareness within the ASB community. It showed me how even the most basic and simple project could completely change and help the situation of thousands of people. It made me realize how no one can do everything, but everyone can do something, which is a statement by which I live.
I also participated in both soccer and basketball teams, traveling to cities like Zurich, Lisbon, and Valencia to play tournaments. During these trips, I met incredible people and formed phenomenal friendships with fellow ASB students as well as students from other international schools.
I was also involved in MUN from G10-12, which was an experience that opened my mind and allowed me to exchange ideas and knowledge with other international students.
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“To be honest, the last football tournament will always have a special place in my heart. It was the last year of school for many of us, and we were able to reach the final and win, closing an amazing chapter of our lives with a happy ending.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The sense of community and how much the teachers care about you. When I first joined ASB, I barely spoke English and had just moved to Barcelona. After just a few weeks, I already felt at home. I had this strong sense of community with the other students and teachers. It was simply a magical feeling of happiness and acceptance.”
ASB in one word?
“Sensational.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet Karla Montes de Oca '19, who attended ASB from 5th grade to 12th, together with her brother Eduardo '16. While Karla's family identifies with Venezuela's traditions and cultures, their frequent movement when she was a child - within the United States, Mexico, Spain, and later, the United Kingdom - quickly makes her feel at home in several countries.
In her second year at King's College London, where she is undertaking a BSc in Biomedical Sciences, Karla is currently celebrating her recent Business Insights Student Placement for next year at MSD Pharmaceuticals, a leading biopharmaceutical company in London. At MSD, Karla will be working alongside professionals and gaining knowledge within the industries through hands-on experience.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"Spending so many hours with teachers every week allowed me to learn so much more from my teachers than just the academic work. My teachers inspired me to pay greater attention and to hold myself accountable to a certain standard. Their enthusiasm and effort on my behalf served as a great motivator. Each of my teachers inspired me in different ways over the years - Mr. Smith's kindness, Mr. Lopez's humor, Mr. Whitehair's devotion to teaching - the list could go on with so many teachers who I will always remember fondly."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I was the co-head organizer of the Barcelona International Schools Association ("BISA") together with my best friend, Emiliana Matas, as well Open Mic events throughout high school. I played on the ASB football team for six years and was captain my senior year. Beyond loving the actual game, I owe a lot of friendships and memorable experiences to the sport."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"The football tournaments always stood out."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"In a nutshell, the teachers."
What are you thinking about doing after graduating from university?
"I hope that working at MSD during my placement year next year will give me a better idea of what I like most and a good sense of direction for what I want to do after graduation."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"Take advantage of the kind community you have at school - make sure you appreciate all the employees that work to make your experience so sweet, from Manuel at the entrance to the kitchen staff and your teachers. You'll miss it once you leave."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Family."
Carlota Terraza Badia ‘19 attended The American School of Barcelona from grades 7 to 12 with her twin brother, Ignacio ‘19, and her older sister, Monica ‘09. She is currently studying Civil Engineering at the University of Warwick.
While a student at ASB, Carlota was involved in Model United Nations, attending BCNMUN and NHSMUN (New York) conferences. An avid supporter of the school’s service projects including the annual fundraiser, RefugART, Carlota’s favorite memory would have to be a service trip she participated in to Botswana in 2018, focused on aiding refugees, orphans and women.
When asked which experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired her today, Carlota shares, “Mr. Bartlett and Mr. Whitehair made me grow a lot throughout the IB program. They both believed in me and helped me whenever I needed them, improving my confidence and helping me to believe in myself. Thanks to them, I am now in my third year of an engineering degree!”
Carlota further shares how unique the ASB community is, “the student body and teaching staff are so connected, the community is like a big family of students, teachers, staff, families, and alumni.”
It’s no surprise to hear her one word to describe ASB:
“Community.”
Spanish-born Júlia Catena Sanchez joined the ASB community as a ninth-grade student, graduating with the Class of 2018. Currently in her final year of undergraduate studies in Economics and Management at King's College London, Júlia will commence a graduate scheme with a telecommunications company, SKY, this upcoming August in London, which will revolve around business strategy.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"I have fond memories of many staff members at ASB. Completing the IB was a challenging task, but some of my teachers made it a much more pleasant experience. I enjoyed economics class with Mr. Cook. He is, in fact, part of the reason I chose to pursue the subject in university. Also, Mr. Lopez's sense of humor helped take off some of the pressure from the IB in Spanish class. Mr. Gnagni was also highly supportive, and even though I struggled in HL Math, he was always there to answer questions and offer a helping hand."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I took part in various MUN conferences in Barcelona and Lisbon. At the last BCMUN conference in 2017, I had the opportunity to chair the debates in the Security Council. That was the first BCNMUN that was student-run. It was such an honor to be part of it.
I also organized prom for my class in June 2018 with my friend, Anna Kozhokar, and a prom committee. We funded the event entirely through bake sales, selling senior sweatshirts, pizza sales, etc. We worked very hard to put the event together, and our classmates had a great time."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"My favorite ASB memories would be chairing BCNMUN 2017 and our graduation. Seeing all my classmates come together, so excited after exams, was such a lovely experience."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The teachers and the international community."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Originally from Spain but raised in Switzerland since her teenage years, Clara Corchero ‘18 has fond memories of ASB, attending the school together with her three siblings, Maria, Eduardo and Luis, from 2006 to 2010.
“Although I only attended ASB from grades 1 to 5, the friendships I created will always be special to me. I remain in very close contact with former classmates, and we meet whenever we can!”
In her third year at the University of Exeter, currently studying a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Politics and International Relations, Clara commenced her industry-year at Lonza AG this year, a pharmaceutical company that has partnered with US Bio-Tech Moderna in the production of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.
“I work in the Human Resources department with a lovely team which I hope to work with again once I finish my studies.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“It’s crazy to say considering I was so young when I attended ASB, but Ms. Teresa’s Sociales class really sparked an interest in me which led me onto a Social Sciences path. The joy and energy she brought into that class was something I think nobody at ASB will ever forget.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“One of my favorite memories from my time at ASB was the SEED program. It was a great way to get to know many people and make friends in other grades. I remember having an incredible time with all the activities and singing ‘Yo quiero tener un millón de amigos” every Wednesday afternoon.
Another of my favorite memories would be the Halloween Parades. The anticipation before that was insane! It was such a fun atmosphere, and everyone always had a good time.”
ASB in one word?
“Diverse.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
With roots in Mexico, Sarai Teresa Marcó González attended ASB for seven years, graduating from the Class of 2018. She is currently studying Economics at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona while also working in communications for an NGO, DoChange, a company that acts as a bridge between volunteer work and young people that want to help others.
"When I started working at DoChange, I discovered that working in a company does not always have to meet a financial objective and that I can also work for a humanitarian purpose. I want to use the knowledge that I am acquiring in my degree to change the world, even if it's only a grain of sand."
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"Definitely, Mr. Gnagni. Thanks to him, I developed a true love of math, and he also helped me through tough times. I also have to say, Ms. Magda. I was the last generation of Selectividad at ASB, the Spanish University access tests. She was like a mom to all of us, always putting us first and not only encouraging us but helping us achieve our goals. You could tell how much she genuinely cared about us."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"I would have to say the day of our last Selectividad exam. Ms. Magda and Ms. Diana were waiting for the eight of us at the building entrance with sparkling cider, and as each of us finished our exam, they hugged us. I remember I was the last one to finish, and as I walked out, we all hugged and cheered with our glasses full of cider. It was a bittersweet moment because we were saying goodbye to ASB, to the Spanish program, and to each other, but at the same time, it was the start of an era that I think we were all longing for."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"I've heard the expression that ASB is like an "airport school," meaning people from all over the world come and go every year. Sometimes it was difficult as we had to say goodbye to friends, but it helped us grow with an open mind. It eliminated prejudices because we never knew who would come next. It also strengthened our ability to make friends with different people, which has helped me a lot over the years. I learned so much about different cultures and religions at ASB."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Dynamic."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet Molly Daly ‘17, born and raised in Barcelona with Irish-American roots on her father’s side. Molly attended ASB for 15 years. “ASB was the only school I ever attended!”
Although she began her university studies at Boston University, Molly transferred to Georgetown University after her freshman year. At Georgetown, she is currently studying International Economics, with a specialization in International Development, and is set to graduate next month with the Class of 2021. She plans to begin working in NYC immediately after graduation for Kobre & Kim, an international law firm dedicated to resolving cross-border disputes.
What teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Truly, one of the most valuable assets that ASB offers its students is its faculty - a profoundly knowledgeable and insightful group of teachers dedicated to helping each and every one of their students grow and learn. Because of my extensive time at ASB, I had the pleasure of interacting with a number of these incredible teachers throughout the years.
In particular, I had the privilege of having Ms. Teresa as my Sociales teacher for several years and was deeply saddened by the news of her passing. Beyond being extremely passionate about the class material, Ms. Teresa was deeply committed to her students, always willing to help us overcome academic and personal challenges, making us smile and laugh along the way.
My teachers during the IB were also deeply influential, with Mr. Mirza and Mr. Speier playing a pivotal role in promoting my interest in economics, history, and international relations. Demanding students to interact with class material in unique ways, both demonstrated the challenging - and yet deeply rewarding - nature of these fields, pushing me to consider a career that united all three.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“At ASB, I was mostly involved in MUN, attending close to 10 conferences during my high school career as both a delegate and chair. Involving interactions with a variety of students from across the globe, grounded in exploring and resolving international disputes, MUN conferences were definitely a highlight of my time at ASB.
Beyond MUN, I also took part in the annual Ski Week trips, some soccer tournaments, initiatives with Nestlé, and volunteered as an assistant elementary music teacher.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Thinking back to my time at ASB, my favorite memories always involved lunch/mid-morning breaks with friends, spent at first in the soccer field and then in the park right next to the school as we grew larger. Playing games and laughing about class occurrences, these simple breaks will always represent the happiest of moments.
Beyond these breaks, I will always remember fondly the fun Ski Week trips spent with friends and the CCC trip which launched our IB class.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“Definitely, it’s international nature. With students from all regions of the world, ASB embodies a diverse global community. Despite all the indisputable differences, ASB endeavors to always provide a welcoming and comfortable environment to all of its students, prioritizing respect, inclusivity, and connections throughout the school.
Combining this international environment with a school grounded in welcoming diversity, ASB is truly one-of-a-kind.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Accommodating.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born in South Korea but at home in Barcelona, Jisoo Kang ‘18 attended ASB for eight years. Her younger brother, Jiho, is currently in Grade 11. Jisoo is currently studying Business Technology Management and Analytics at the University of British Columbia, while also working at SAP as a Product Strategy Intern in their Augmented BI team.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“I have amazing memories of all of my teachers. It was Mr. Cook in IB HL Economics, though, who taught me how to persevere through a challenge. I initially struggled to adapt to HL Economics, and Mr. Cook provided stable support for me to forge ahead and complete the course with a strong finish.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was the Fundraising Coordinator for BCNMUN. It was one of my first long-term project experiences, and I learned a lot about teamwork and professional behavior.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I loved International Day! There weren’t many Korean families when I attended ASB, so it was an amazing opportunity to share my culture with the ASB community.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“It’s the people that make ASB special. It’s fascinating how students, teachers, and staff members from all around the world come together and create a family.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Supportive.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Alex Latorre ‘18 joined ASB in eighth grade, moving from an international school in Switzerland. His younger sister, Mar, is currently a fifth-grade student and their cousins, Abril, Jana, and Eira, also attend the school. Now in his third year studying Industrial Engineering and Product Design at ELISAVA (a university-affiliated to Pompeu Fabra), Alex is also working part-time as an intern at MTS Tech, a robotics startup in Barcelona.
“I have been working at MTS Tech since January, focused on 3D design and the production of automated systems for installations and factories around Spain (including for companies like Mercedes, SIMON, and Amazon), as well as client visits where I showcase our solutions.”
Which teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Any time spent with Mr. Orlic was amazing. In his class, I learned what it meant to be a valuable member of society and be a good person.
I also want to acknowledge Mr. Bartlett. My mom still remembers her first meeting with him in eleventh grade, where he expressed doubts about my selection of Physics HL and writing a Physics Extended Essay. Through his class, support, and pure dedication, I went on to study Engineering, where almost all branches of Physics are a must.
Finally, I do want to mention both of my Chemistry teachers. I’m grateful to Mr. Smith for lighting up my passion for Chemistry in the tenth grade and to Mr. Whitehair for putting up with all the silliness and fun times we had in the two years I took IB Chem HL.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was a delegate at seven Model United Nations conferences around Europe and an administrator at one.
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Our Mykonos senior trip as well as Graduation.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The way of educating students to give them the confidence to believe that everything is in your reach with enough work and dedication.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Born and raised in Venezuela, Emiliana Matas Tinoco ‘19, moved to Barcelona with her family in 2011 when she joined ASB as a sixth-grader. “I’ve always identified as a Venezuelan, but I definitely call Barcelona home.” Today she is a student of Contemporary Media Cultures at The University of the Arts in London.
Emiliana’s family is known for its creativity. Her old sister, Isabel, works in Califonia building sustainable treehouses @wildernestdesign. Her younger sister, Alessia, currently a senior at ASB, is a musician. Her mother, Ms. Isabel Tinoco, is an assistant art teacher in the middle and high school at ASB.
“I really appreciate the teachers at ASB. They saw me as more than just a student, especially my Literature and History teachers, who inspired me to follow a creative writing degree in my first year.” Emiliana reflects on her decision to study HL Literature in her IBDP, which helped her develop skills and processes that later became invaluable at university. “I quickly realized that some of my classmates at university who had not taken the IB did not share those analytical skills.”
While an avid fan of Open Mic events at ASB, Emiliana organized Open Mic and talent shows at BISA (Barcelona International Schools Association) events, together with her good friend, Karla Montes. “I have really fond memories of those days - I didn’t realize how strong my friendships were at ASB until I was at university.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born in France and raised in Spain, Jade Plancke ‘18 attended ASB for five years. “I’m very attached to both France and Spain, so I would say that both are my home.”
Jade is now completing a dual Master’s degree in International Affairs at SciencesPo and LSE, after completing her undergraduate studies at ESCP, a French business school. She is also working part-time in an organization that helps companies reduce the environmental impact of their business activities.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“I would say that ASB significantly contributed to my personal development. We had endless opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, and the teachers were always supporting us. My classmates also had a big impact on me. They enjoyed learning, they were proactive, and they were curious. I’m confident that they helped me become the best version of myself.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was part of Model United Nations and had the opportunity to attend several conferences abroad, as well as Chair two conferences. I also contributed to several events; for example, I was a speaker at an e-commerce summit in Barcelona. In addition, I organized an event where we invited parents to speak to students about their professional paths. At the same time, I was a competitive ice-skater until 11th grade.”
American-born and Spanish-raised Ornella Rodriguez attended ASB from fourth grade until graduation in 2018. Her older sister, Camila ‘15, also graduated from the school and their younger brother, Nicolas, is currently a Grade 11 student. Her mother, Monica Rodriguez, was one of the parents instrumental in the early days of the ASB Welcoming Committee for new families.
In her third year pursuing a degree in European Studies with a major in European Law at the University of Amsterdam, Ornella is currently working on her thesis on the European Court of Justice role as a motor for European Integration in particular in the field of criminal law. Following graduation this summer, she has secured an internship with an NGO in Madrid, where she will assume the role of EU law researcher.
When asked to recall teachers from ASB who inspired her today, she quickly responds, “Mr. Speier, my 11th-grade history teacher, will forever live in my mind as a true inspiration. There was no teacher like him, incredibly unique and very motivating; he could motivate even the least productive students. He was a very open-minded teacher with rigorous teaching methods that yielded outstanding results. I will always hold very fond memories of the “Spierer Era,” as will the rest of my peers at the time. I am sure my class would agree that he helped all students reach their maximum potential.”
At ASB, Ornella was always involved in Student Council, taking on leadership roles from Grade 5 and being a board member all four years of high school. Her experience as President of Student Council her senior year, Vice President in tenth grade, Treasurer in grades nine and eleven, and the Ambassador award she received in her graduating class provided her with a great foundation for leadership roles in the future. She was also involved in various outreach programs, Model United Nations, AMAC sports conferences, and the 2017 Medical Mission to Peru.
Her favorite memories from school include Prom (2017), graduation (2018), ski week trips, the Medical Mission to Peru, senior trip to Mykonos, and her Ambassador Award in 2018.
“During my time at ASB, I was able to become a well-rounded, culturally aware individual. ASB certainly shaped me into the person I am today.”
ASB in one word?
“Wholesome.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBTogether
Barcelona-born and raised, Saioa Tricquet attended ASB for 15 years before graduating in 2018. She is currently in her final year of university pursuing a BSc in Management at the London School of Economics.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Mr. Gnagni, Mr. López, and Mr. Cook were the triad that guided me throughout the IB to become the person I am today. They always encouraged me to think critically and question why things are the way they are. Through their different disciplines, I learned how to think logically and creatively, but most importantly, to strive for the best. Though rigorous and efficient in their teaching methods, they also put humor and care into their classrooms, creating a safe-space to inquire and have a good time while learning.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities at ASB.
“I was heavily involved in Model United Nations, especially the annual BCNMUN conference. I progressed from a position of admin to Deputy-Secretary General in my final year of high school. I believe it was an enriching experience because not only did it allow me to research and debate on very pertinent issues, but I was able to develop my communication and leadership skills. I was also involved in the organization of several creative events, such as the Open Mic night and the BISA (Barcelona International Schools Association) Talent Show, which aimed to celebrate ASB’s student talent while raising funds for different social causes.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I enjoyed Clean Camp Climb (“CCC”) in the eleventh grade because it allowed everyone to bond and have a fun weekend before we started the IB. We participated in several service activities throughout the weekend, such as cleaning the beach and team-building games. We got to know the teachers who would guide us through the following two years and develop stronger bonds with all the students. CCC made the transition between tenth grade and the IB less stressful and very memorable.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“Being a relatively small school, you get to know all of your peers and teachers very well, which is very conducive to a good educational environment. I definitely think that ASB’s most valuable asset is its staff, from its teachers to counselors to kitchen staff. The teachers care about all of their students and go out of their way to support and provide guidance.”
What are you thinking about doing after graduating from university?
“I am currently looking to work as a marketing analyst. The seamless integration of numerical and creative aspects within several industries appeals to me. I have always strived to find a nice balance between quantitative and qualitative work throughout my academic career since I believe they are complementary forces. Furthermore, I like the fast-paced environment and dynamic work style that an analyst experiences. Apart from developing myself professionally, I would also like to travel (as soon as it is safe to do so) and experience new cultures and lifestyles.”
Any advice for ASB high school students?
“Enjoy every single moment at ASB and take advantage of all the opportunities it offers. I can fully say that the high-level teaching I received during my time at school was a determinant force in preparing me for university and what awaits me in the future. The tight-knit community at ASB, both with teachers and other students, is something I treasure. I developed solid relationships at ASB and know that, despite us all parting our separate ways, I will always be able to count on my friends.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Welcoming.”
Anything else you would like to share?
“The community service projects I was involved in during my time at ASB have fostered an interest towards sustainability and volunteerism. I hope to develop this interest in my professional life by participating in pro-bono projects to provide consulting services to minority or vulnerable groups.”
Born in Spain but Mexican “by heart,” Mar Vidal ’18 attended ASB from 2004 to 2007, and again from 2016 to 2018. Currently in her 3rd year studying Business Administration at ESADE Business School in Barcelona, Mar is keen to pursue a career as an entrepreneur.
“I have been working on developing my Python coding skills, particularly in Artificial Intelligence, so I can pair these with my aspiration of becoming an entrepreneur in today’s world. I would love to build a company where I can pair both!”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Wow, there are genuinely so many. I spent years where I was very young at ASB, and I will never forget some teachers.
Ms. Donna Love is one of my early elementary teachers who I clearly remember and will always hold dear to my heart. She was always so encouraging and helpful, recognized my efforts, and never made me feel bad about making mistakes. I would love to reconnect with her; she was a pillar to my education, without a doubt!
Ms. Michelle DeZerne is one of the most thoughtful and encouraging teachers I’ve ever had. She always cared about my wellbeing, and she put a lot of thought and effort into understanding her students and their personalities. She was so supportive during my IB years, and every time I was struggling, she would have a knack to know something was up. She knew how to lift our moods and make her class enjoyable and educational at the same time.
Mr. Daniel Whitehair is also an incredible teacher. Similar to Ms. Michelle, he cared about my wellbeing and knew his students well. Since my IB Chemistry SL class was small and had a lot of Latino influence, he’d play Spanish songs we loved and created a happy and encouraging environment for us to learn.
Mr. Joan López was also an amazing teacher. He always encouraged me to think outside the box and push my limits to become the best version of myself. It was always so fun to have debates in his Spanish class because he made them so enriching and entertaining - it was hard to leave that room without a new piece of information. He saw the potential in his students and did all he could to get the best out of us.
Lastly, Mr. Micah Cook was unforgettable. Not only is he extremely talented at what he does, but he also has so much personality and would make every class fun, entertaining, and always added a speck of humor to make us laugh. I loved having him as a teacher! We had inside jokes since the beginning of my IB journey and shared a great relationship.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I have so many…
I remember as a little kid running down the ramp that led to Kindergarten every morning because I was so excited to see my friends and teachers.
I remember in 2nd grade, I wrote a little story and showed it to my teacher, and she wrote a comment I’ll never forget: “I’ll be the first in line to buy your book when you become an author.” It’s so special to have this memory because I still enjoy writing from time to time to express myself. It’s so important as a young child to see recognition in what you love and receive the proper support!
I remember many conversations with my teachers during the IB. Most students can relate that it’s a period in your life where you feel immense pressure and need support not only from friends and family but also from your teachers. We spent so much time with them. I remember speaking to Ms. Michelle and Mr. Daniel about the pressure I felt with school, sharing memories about Mexico with Mr. Cook, and having conversations about my future with Mr. López. I felt so close to all of them!
I also remember graduation. It was such a special day for me. I started school at ASB, and although I had moved to another country in between, I still ended up right where I started. Seeing the school where I had so many memories as a young child and sitting there with some of my new friends and some very old friends made me feel so happy. Graduating in front of teachers who were so humane and supported me throughout the IB experience was also emotional. One of the most memorable days of my life!”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“ASB is exceptional for a multitude of reasons.
Firstly, it provides a safe space for kids who have grown up all around the world and don’t attribute their nationality or identity to one place. We’ve all lived around the world, speak multiple languages, and it’s special to be able to share our diverse backgrounds and experiences with each other.
It’s also exceptional to have such qualified and supportive teachers. It’s impressive to look back now and recognize the teachers I had throughout the IB left such a mark on me as a student and person. Not only are they excellent at what they do, but they also take the time and effort to know their students and help them individually in the ways that they need.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Diverse!”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
After four years at ASB, Alessia Czerwinski ‘17 moved to Canada after graduation. She is currently in her final year at the University of Waterloo, studying Honours Environment, Resources, and Sustainability with a minor in Geographical Environmental Management and a Diploma in Environmental assessment. That’s a mouthful, but right on track for Alessia’s future in environmental policies!
While at university, Alessia has been able to gain work experience as part of her COOP program, mainly in areas related to her studies; public service, policy, and environmental compliance. She has worked for the Federal government of Canada and a private pharmaceutical company.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“I’m very grateful to all of my teachers at ASB for pushing me and encouraging me to be who I am today. Mr. Mota taught me Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) during the IB, which persuaded me to study what I study today. I am also grateful to my Chemistry teacher, Mr. Daniel, who helped me become a better student and more confident in my abilities. Finally, I am also thankful to Mr. Speier and Mr. Bolivar, both of who pushed me to believe in myself and work harder.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was involved in the Student Council; it was a great way to get involved in the school while making friends from different grades. I also took French to complete the DELF certification, played soccer on the high school girl’s team, and for my volunteer service, I taught English to hospital staff at San Joan de Deu.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“There are so many! I loved attending International Day and seeing all of the different nationalities and cultures represented at ASB. It was also a great way to showcase my country and its traditions. When I first visited ASB, it was Halloween, and the school was all decorated with kids wearing costumes. It was so familiar and sweet that it helped convince my family and me to choose ASB.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“ASB is diverse and strong. We meet so many like-minded yet different people who want to work hard and grow into strong adults. It has a small community feeling that most schools cannot offer.”
Meet Barcelonian Marta Escura Esteban ‘17, who attended ASB for 14 years, from K4 to Grade 12. Her family comes from a long line of ASB’ers - her mother, two uncles, older sister, and cousins all attended ASB; her niece, Sofia, is currently a third-grader.
Now a 4th-year medical student at the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB) at Vall d’Hebron Hospital, Marta is considering whether to do her residency in Spain or the United States following graduation in two years.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“It’s hard to pinpoint just one. But, I have always felt very supported and encouraged by all of the teachers I’ve had at ASB through the years, and I am very grateful to them.
I was part of one of the last generations to be in the Selectividad program (Spanish baccalaureate). I will always be very grateful, especially to Ms. Magda Montesinos, for being like a mom to our little group. She cared about all of us and motivated me towards the path to enter medical school in Barcelona.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“In 10th grade, I was a part of a doctor-shadowing program between ASB and Sant Joan de Deu Hospital, organized by Ms. Marta Vernet, in which students from ASB would help doctors as translators for patients who spoke in English. It was one of my first contacts with medicine. It motivated me to know I could help doctors through what I had learned at school.
I also participated in various MUN conferences, which I think helps one learn how to present and debate in front of a large audience.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“The school invited my mother to be the guest speaker at my High School graduation. As a former student herself and an ASB mom for so many years, it was a very special moment for both of us.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“ASB teaches you how to think critically, out of the box, and especially, it encourages you to enjoy learning. These are skills that I value, and I feel that they have shaped how I approach what I learn in university.
The school also has a unique sense of community I feel very grateful to have been a part of.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Home.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Maria Marqués Boving (Class of ‘17) attended ASB from 2008 through to twelfth grade, as well as her younger sister Lola (Class of ‘19).
What experiences and teachers from ASB have inspired who you are today?
“Plenty of teachers and staff throughout my time at ASB have had an everlasting imprint on my life. They taught me to develop my innate qualities which make me who I am today.
During my high school years, being involved in the student council, RefugArt, Feed the Future, Model United Nations, and the volunteer service trip to Nepal also played an instrumental role in my development.”
After graduating last year from the University of Leeds with a degree in Sociology, Maria is now completing a Masters part-time in Contemporary Religion at King’s College London. She is also Content and Community Manager at startup Serendipity, creating an app for charity donations through a platform based on quick and conscious giving.
“At Serendipity, plenty of my passions are combined under a single initiative. It feels great to be laying the grounds for users of the app to direct their resources to those people and causes that need it the most, in the most efficient ways possible.”
Aside from this, Maria actively blends her imaginative side with her more proactive approach to making an impact in the world.
Originally from Poland, Pola Mikulska ‘17 attended ASB for twelve years, from first grade until twelfth, together with her sister, Asia `20. She is currently studying Business and Marketing at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland and is excited to be joining the world of advertising and branding, specifically its creative side.
“The recent lockdown has made me reignite my passion for the arts and design, inspiring me to finally bring to life my creative portfolio, https://polamikulska.myportfolio.com/, which has been many years in the making. It spans from the work I did with IB Visual Arts to recent projects and commissions, which is very exciting.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB inspired who you are today?
“All the teachers at ASB have inspired me in one way or another, and I cherished my time with them dearly. However, I would have to say, my art teacher, Ms. Ana, was the one who motivated me the most through her teaching of creativity and artistic expression. I will always remember her encouragement to pursue a degree in arts and design, which, while it was not finally something I decided to study at university, is ultimately the career path I decided to take.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities from ASB?
“One highlight was a service trip to Nepal, organized by Mr. Mirza and Mr. Llamazares, where we worked alongside RCDP Nepal with a rural school community. I was also involved in MUN and attended various conferences, as well as played for the school’s volleyball team.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“It would probably have to be the time spent in Ms. Ana’s art room during IB Visual Arts. Our year group was very special, and the welcoming environment Ms. Ana created within the classroom made us thrive in our creativity and be constantly inspired by one another. It was the class I most looked forward to every day.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“Internationality is at ASB’s core, both in the academic and social sense. Attending ASB has exposed me to so many different cultures and nationalities that it has prepared me for interacting with virtually anybody, which is one of the most important life skills one can possess.”
Any advice for ASB high school students?
“Make sure to enjoy your high school years without the academic aspect taking over! While the IB program is challenging, you will make the most out of it if you balance the work with your social life and extracurriculars to keep yourself inspired and motivated.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Empowering.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Mònica Alegre '17 completed her high school years at ASB, attending in Grades 11 and 12. Calling both Spain and the United States her home, she has recently graduated from Erasmus University College in The Netherlands with an honors degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE).
"I plan to begin an internship in the humanitarian and philanthropic sector at Justdiggit, an NGO involved in reforestation and sustainable agricultural management in Kenya and Tanzania. In September I will commence my Masters in Public Policy for Political Economy and Development, after which I hope to work for international organizations on humanitarian causes."
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"Teachers at ASB are inspiring and essential. Their knowledge and creativity influence the quality of education and the passion ignited in students. Particularly for me, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Marroquin, Ms. Monds, and Ms. Ana were a big influence on my development and helped my friends and me through the challenging times of the IBDP. Ms. Thompson led my favorite class, English, where she used her extensive knowledge of books, artists, and writers to give us amazing recommendations. Her classes met the social, emotional, and personal development needs of many of us. Ms. Monds and Ms. Ana were also always very empathetic and supportive. Finally, I loved Ms. Marroquin's class, as I found Theory of Knowledge (TOK) to be an essential part of the IB program that helped us to develop our critical thinking and intellectual capacities."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I participated in the RefugArt organization, which my good friend, Alyssa Skites, founded. There we created events that raised money and awareness for the refugee crisis."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"Being with my friends at lunch and the RefugArt event in Grade 12 where we watched a documentary and then had a panel discussion. It was a compelling evening where we all felt inspired and motivated to fight for the things that matter."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"ASB is special because it has a community like no other, with people from all over the world. It has a unique environment where cultures come together and learn from each other in a rich environment where similarities and differences are celebrated. The IBDP provides philosophical insights and discussions about progressive and important topics such as climate crises and social issues, thus developing our emotional intelligence. As someone who has attended more than ten schools, I can say that the education I attained at ASB is of the most valuable."
Any advice for ASB high school students?
"The IBDP is an intense study but a very rewarding one. I often noticed that I was very well prepared compared to others who had not completed the IB in university. Don't focus too much on small grades, but rather be proud of yourself for continuing to make it through. Be sure to ask for help when you need it, as the teachers and staff are always willing to help and provide assistance. Most of all, enjoy it!!"
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Spanish-born, Alexia Benchimol ‘17, attended ASB from grades 9 to 12, together with her twin sister, Sarah. Following ASB, she attended the University of Oxford where she studied law. She recently completed her Master’s in public international law at the London School of Economics and Political Science. Today Alexia works as an international arbitration clerk at Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP in London.
When asked to share experiences or teachers from ASB who might have inspired her today, Alexia shared, “I think the community service activities at ASB are really special. Ms. Marta Vernet, who oversees community service projects, has inspired many of us with her empathy and drive. These values have truly stuck with me.”
Alexia hopes to work on pro-bono or public interest matters throughout her professional career. “My sister and I are currently directing a microfinance project with the charity @gbc.zambia, an incredible NGO that helps to improve the lives of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Zambians.”
Some of Alexia’s favorite memories from ASB come from IB art. “Our trip to Madrid and our final exhibition are definitely stand-outs. We were a very tight-knit group, and Ms. Ana Martinez was the most kind and supportive teacher we could have asked for.”
Born in Denver, Colorado, Pau Lleonart Calvo ‘17 attended ASB for five years, together with his three siblings, Max, Marina, and Georgia. “My family often moved between the United States and Spain, so it is hard for me to imagine my life without either country. Over the years, I’ve called both places home; however, my family is entirely Catalan, and the experiences I had at ASB as well as the friendships I formed there absolutely solidified Catalunya as the place I call home.”
Now in his final year at Virginia Tech studying a BSc in Computer Science, Pau is planning to work in the software development industry as a software engineer following graduation.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“My time with Mr. Bartlett, my Physics teacher, taught me how to balance work and fun. He made the coursework so exciting, and at the end of our time together, my class gifted him some mugs which had phrases on them that he often repeated (something we always found entertaining). Ms. Marta made our Spanish classes exciting by having us regularly bring in home-cooked meals to share. Mr. Daniel always made Chemistry fun and even had us participate in a student vs. student rap battle during class. They, along with Ms. Montse, Ms. Monds (Go Hokies!), Ms. Minu, Ms. Corral, Ms. Vernet, Mr. Speier, Principal Chapin, and others, all had a tremendous impact on how I’ve grown.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“While I was at ASB, I participated in and helped organize Mary’s Meals galas where we held auctions and collected donations to help end world hunger. I was also a member of ASB’s Rotary Interact club and regularly volunteered at a local home for the elderly, where my classmates and I helped the residents learn how to use modern technology. At one point, my friends and I even ran a small science club out of one of the high school classrooms!”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“My favorite memories from ASB are of the first time I met each of my best friends. Looking back, it feels like we met in such accidental ways, like running into each other in a hallway or coincidentally being placed in the same orientation group on the first day of school. I could never have predicted how important each of them would be to me.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“Because of its size, ASB has a unique way of personalizing relationships between students, teachers, and faculty. The diversity within the community also allows students to develop a global mindset that is truly unique. It’s because of these qualities that I woke up every morning excited to get to class, to see my friends and my teachers.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Personal.”
Anything else you would like to share?
“You can check out my software projects (like a realistic snowflake simulator) at gitlab.com/paullc.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Maria Marqués Boving (Class of ‘17) attended ASB from 2008 through to twelfth grade, as well as her younger sister Lola (Class of ‘19).
What experiences and teachers from ASB have inspired who you are today?
“Plenty of teachers and staff throughout my time at ASB have had an everlasting imprint on my life. They taught me to develop my innate qualities which make me who I am today.
During my high school years, being involved in the student council, RefugArt, Feed the Future, Model United Nations, and the volunteer service trip to Nepal also played an instrumental role in my development.”
After graduating last year from the University of Leeds with a degree in Sociology, Maria is now completing a Masters part-time in Contemporary Religion at King’s College London. She is also Content and Community Manager at startup Serendipity, creating an app for charity donations through a platform based on quick and conscious giving.
“At Serendipity, plenty of my passions are combined under a single initiative. It feels great to be laying the grounds for users of the app to direct their resources to those people and causes that need it the most, in the most efficient ways possible.”
Aside from this, Maria actively blends her imaginative side with her more proactive approach to making an impact in the world.
Hailing from California with ties to South Korea and Switzerland, Andrew Noh ‘17 grew up on the international circuit. He attended ASB from Grade 9-12 together with his sister, Madeline ‘18. In May, the senior will be graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Philosophy, Politics, & Economics (PPE).
“Next year, I plan to attend law school. I am interested in electoral and legislative politics and hope to practice law in either of these fields.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“There are so many teachers that I want to shout out, which is a testament to the strong relationships you build with the teachers at ASB. Mr. Speier and Mr. Hennessy both taught me to be an analytical and critical thinker. Mr. Gnagni never failed to take an opportunity to teach us about something new, even if it was unrelated to the class material. I was also close with Ms. Corral, Ms. Thompson, Mr. Llamazares, and Mr. Daniel.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was President of the Student Council. I also was involved in MUN and served as a chair at BCNMUN. With help from Ms. Marta, I co-founded the Interact Club and was a member of the inaugural ASB TUMI trip to Peru. We volunteered as translators at a medical mission in the Amazon, which was an eye-opening experience that tangibly showed me how my education could be used in service of others.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I loved International Day. Looking back, I think it’s symbolic of the best parts of ASB. Most importantly, we got to proudly celebrate the diversity of our community. It felt like we were all gathering at a friend’s house to have a barbecue. The festive atmosphere, good food, and great weather all added to the experience.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The small and tight-knit community. Everyone knows everyone, and it was easy to cultivate deep relationships with students and the ASB staff, parents, and teachers. I miss chatting with Manuel or Minu when I arrived in the mornings, sending Mr. Daniel chemistry questions over Whatsapp, and being able to walk into any teacher’s classroom to talk about anything.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Jan Rasmussen Mitjana ‘17 attended ASB for 14 years, together with his younger brother, Nil ‘21. Following ASB, he secured a full athletics (swimming all-American) scholarship to Drury University in Missouri to study Economics and Finance.
Currently working as a Digital Marketing intern at Havas Media, the media division of the global marketing and communications group Havas, Jan also manages the social media platforms for up-and-coming Barcelona-based watch brand @montjuic_watches.
When reminiscing about his ASB days, Jan reflects, “I am so grateful for the attention and care that ASB teachers provided to my peers and me during our time at school. By valuing our thoughts and ideas, the teachers at ASB gave us a voice we are confident about today. My 11th grade IB Economics teacher, Mr. Mirza, particularly showed me ways to focus on work without distractions and always gave our class a laugh with his wit and charisma. I also can’t leave out Ms. Sandra, who was like a mother to me when she taught me in 5th grade.”
Jan has fond recollections of the Delta del Ebro trip in 5th grade. “Mustering up the courage to ask your crush for a date to the famous “dance” was a big obstacle for me as a young kid. I remember asking the question, “Will you go to Delta with me?” (because that made sense as a 5th grader), not even waiting for a response due to my nerves and just blurting out, “Just say yes! (Not my proudest moment)”
He also recalls playing “ping-pong football” or “El Juego de Jan” (a game which he is very proud to have named after him) during recess during the stressful (but rewarding) IBDP. “We even had special appearances from Mr. Daniel!”
When asked what makes ASB special, Jan quickly responds, “friendships built over time become like family. ASB is like a home away from home.”
Jan is eager to connect with current or former ASB’ers and expand his network amongst the ASB alumni community. Feel free to connect with him on LinkedIn!
Calling both the Philippines and Spain home, Marianna Reyes attended ASB together with her younger brother for three years, graduating in the Class of 2017. She received her BSc in Human Sciences from University College London in 2020 and currently works at a strategy consulting company for pharmaceuticals in London.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"I had really close relationships with my teachers at ASB, and I honestly don't even know where to start! I was especially close to Mr. Mirza as Economics was always riveting in content and witty jokes. Mr. Llamazares was always good to support whenever content piled up. English Lit with Ms. Thompson allowed me to express myself creatively when the buzz of IB was overwhelming. I also had a good relationship with Ms. Davis, Mr. Wager, and Mr. Cook."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I particularly enjoyed NESDA impromptu speaking. Having seconds to prepare a three-minute structured speech on the most random prompts is a skill that helps me think on my feet to this day. I also joined Model United Nations, which had really memorable trips and football, which I very much loved."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"A favorite ASB memory for me was the last day of school when teachers gave us individual certificates about our attitudes/personality in that particular class. It really illustrated the close relationships we had with our teachers outside academics."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The diversity of people in such a small space. I love the range of conversations I have had with all of the connections I've kept throughout the years."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Barcelona-born Marta Marcos Salleras ‘17 attended the American School of Barcelona from Kindergarten to grade 12, together with her brother Joan Miquel ‘20 and sister, Julia (current grade 9 student).
Marta is currently in her final year at ESADE in Barcelona, studying Law and International Relations. She completed an exchange program at SciencesPO in Paris and is now interning at ANUE, the United Nations Association in Spain. “My internship focuses on women’s rights, which is my passion, together with human rights and migration. I am actively looking for new opportunities in the field of international relations.”
While a high school student at ASB, together with a few friends, Marta founded the student-led association, RefugART. “The initiative was created to spread awareness and raise funds to help refugees. I am very grateful to Ms. Marta Vernet for her encouragement and motivation. She taught us to see how we could help others. Today, RefugART is still active thanks to her.”
Marta has also been a part of other student organizations, including Equal at ESADE and Female Founders Night at SciencesPO.
Throughout her high school career, Marta enjoyed being an active member of Model United Nations. “It awoke in me the drive to work in international relations. I loved the dynamic of discussing world affairs with people of different backgrounds, which was a hugely enriching experience and I met amazing people.”
“ASB is special because its values are centered on acceptance, diversity, and giving. Having attended the school for so many years has been life-changing. I know I would not be the person I am today without the amazing friends and teachers that I met there.”
Selin Sampere Ayta ‘17 attended the American School of Barcelona for 15 years, from K3 to Grade 12. Following ASB, she studied Business Administration at Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona. She currently works as a Business Development Representative at DataGuard in Munich, an organization that helps companies process their data and build trust with their customers.
“While most of my friends from university took a more traditional approach to their careers, I wanted to challenge myself and work for a fast-growing start-up company. My colleagues today are like-minded people. We really live by the motto, “Work hard, play hard”!
Reflecting on her time at ASB, Selin shares, “there are so many people from different cultures and backgrounds. They were all a major source of inspiration who shaped who I am today.”
“I remember Ms. Teresa would come up with the most unique project ideas, which made the learning experience incredibly stimulating. I still laugh when I think of her walking the middle school corridors spraying vanilla perfume because “it smelled like hormones.”
As a student, Selin was active in Student Council, participated in MUN and Rotary, and was a Sharing-to-Learn teacher. She also played a part in The Jungle Book performance in elementary school.
Asked what her favorite ASB memories were, she is quick to respond, “International Day and Halloween - these two annual celebrations greatly represent what ASB is.”
“I remember International Day was filled with delicious food from all over the world. I was always so excited to help my mom share Turkish culture with the community.”
“Halloween is hands down the best event at ASB. Every year, I would try to come up with a unique costume and, in later years, the best dance. My favorite dance was in 6th grade, Mr. Pacheco’s class. We did a spin-off to “Ghostbusters” with costumes and choreography.”
Selin attributes her time at ASB to her drive to create real change in the world. “ASB challenges its students to do better, not only for their future but also for their community.”
ASB in one word?
“Forward-thinking.”
Watch a short video of Selin speaking about how ASB has benefited her in life today.
American Alyssa Skites ‘17 attended ASB from Grade 9 through 12, during which she co-founded RefugArt, an event that combines art and philanthropy to raise awareness for the plight of refugees, engaging ASB students in philanthropic programs to impact future giving. Following high school, she attended San Diego State University, graduating in 2020 with an interdisciplinary studies degree in Political Science, Economics, & Journalism.
Currently the author of Hopeful Despair, a book that shares the stories of social impact workers (available on Amazon), she is also an English as a Foreign Language teacher as well as the founder of Global Healing Exploration (on Instagram @globalhealingexploration), a platform that seeks to educate our readers about unique healing modalities around the world and how other cultures view/approach medicine. Additionally, Alyssa is in the process of becoming a certified yoga instructor through trauma-informed training done in Xico, Veracruz.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Ms. Marta inspired me to believe in my ability to make a change. Ms. Thompson challenged my perspective on literature and the power of words. Finally, Ms. Ana showed me a type of kindness I hope to spread into the world and taught me that creative expression is not only about aesthetics but a means through which we can self-emote, learn, and promote social change.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was on the girl’s soccer team throughout my entire time at ASB. In addition, I co-founded RefugArt, which became a huge source of inspiration for my post-high school endeavors.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Going to Madrid with my IBVA art class is by far one of my favorite memories from ASB. Not only did it add to my artistic vision, it definitely made our already close-knit class even closer!”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“I think ASB’s diversity and focus on community service collide to create an environment that is conducive for mental, creative, and emotional growth. Inspiration breathes through the bustling hallways!”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Home (I think so many of us in the ASB community feel a bit nomadic and don’t have one set idea of what “home” is. But somehow, together, we created something that felt a little like home.).”
American-born Isabella Ziegler ‘17 attended the American School of Barcelona her sophomore through senior year together with her brother, Joe ‘19.
“I didn’t feel that ASB valued either the arts, sciences, maths, or humanities over each other. There were facilities and passionate teachers to support kids wherever their strengths or interests took them. ASB did an excellent job recognizing these strengths and commending students for their successes in those fields.”
A recent graduate from the Fisher College of Business of The Ohio State University, Isabella earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree specializing in Finance. Her studies included a minor in Spanish for Business and another focused on Environment, Sustainability, and Development.
“I cannot recommend Ohio State enough. Despite being one of the largest schools in the United States, the experience felt extremely personalized. I got to know my academic advisor and most of my professors well; there were tons of involvement opportunities, the alumni network is massive, and I felt that they set me up for success career-wise as well!”
Currently working for JPMorgan Chase in Asset and Wealth Management as part of the Legal Entity Structure and Reg W team, Isabella is participating in the Global Finance and Business Management rotational program for her first two years out of university, which she shares is “a great opportunity for networking, training, exposure, and establishing a community within a huge corporation.” Her work as a legal controller ensures that funds and other investments within Asset and Wealth Management comply with Federal Reserve Requirements.
“I knew I wanted Finance for a very long time. I’ve always been quite passionate about politics and current events, particularly in high school, and I started to realize that the issues that I cared about the most primarily concerned the economy. So I found it fascinating to track what actions or comments or policies had the greatest implication on the market and the economy as a whole.”
Reflecting on ASB teachers who made an impact on her life, Isabella shares that Mr. Motta, her Environmental Systems and Society (ESS) teacher, “had confidence in my abilities in class, and knew that if he just pushed me enough, and talked me through my logic, that he could make the subject really meaningful to me.” At JPMorgan, she recently was fortunate enough to play a role in facilitating the acquisition of Campbell Global, a renowned leader in forest management and timber investment. “Looking back, it’s crazy to think that just over six years ago, electing to take ESS at ASB started this whole path.”
Isabella was an active member of Model United Nations throughout her high school career, attending ten MUN conferences, including BCNMUN, THIMUN, IMUN, NHSMUN, and MilanMUN.
“I was fortunate to represent both the Russian Federation (at IMUN) and the United States of America (at BCNMUN), spearheading my own resolutions in both and speaking in front of the committee. In my final BCNMUN, I served as President of the General Assembly, which was one of my greatest accomplishments as a high school student.”
Asked to recall a favorite memory, Isabella shares, “HL History would have to have been one of my favorite subjects at school. It was a small class with extremely passionate teachers. Because of the size of our class, our schedule created an extended lunch period once a week where we would eat lunch together as a history class. I recall a few times we went down to Taste of America and had a little history picnic outside in the sun, which is definitely one of my favorite memories.”
Andorran born to French and Spanish parents, Eugenia Agell-Bernad ‘16 was raised in Ireland before moving to Barcelona for her IBDP years. Following ASB, she studied Business Finance at Toulouse Business School in France, completing her year abroad at the University of Reykjavik in Iceland.
Today Eugenia is working as a Growth Marketing Specialist at software startup Audiens in Cambridge, once part of Bango, funded by the Korean tech giant NHN. The company uses data science to optimize revenue opportunities for organizations.
“I hope I can help my company become the next Apple!”
Eugenia has fond memories of her time at ASB. Classes with teachers like Mr. Mirza and Ms. Nash she particularly enjoyed for Economics and English Language and Literature. While at ASB, she was also an active member of the EcoClub and Yearbook committee, allowing her to gain experience in project management and creative thinking. An avid sportsperson, Eugenia also felt supported at ASB to follow her passions of downhill skiing and tennis, in addition to her studies.
“I miss the ASB spirit. No matter what it was, we were always there and happy to celebrate it together,” she shares.
Xènia Campàs Gené ‘16 attended the American School of Barcelona for six years, together with her brother, Francesc ‘18, and sister, Carla ‘19. Following ASB, Xènia undertook a double degree in Law and Business Administration at ESADE. She is currently completing a double Masters in Legal Practice and Specialization in International Sports Law Practice at ESADE, with plans to take on a Master of Laws (LLM) in arbitration and dispute resolution at Cardozo Law School in New York next year.
In addition to her studies, Xènia has been working as a tax consultant at the law firm AddVante Economistas y Abogados in Barcelona; however, she plans to join a top law firm, Ruiz-Huerta & Crespo, specializing in Sports Law in February.
“Uniting law and sports has been a life-changer. Uniting a professional passion and a personal one has been the best choice for me. I would encourage all students to follow their passions!”
When asked to share which teachers or experiences from her time at ASB impacted her, Xènia shares,
“Having Mr. Bolivar in 9th grade and then in IB Math HL was very rewarding. He was always prepared, organized, and meticulous, but he cared about every single one of us. His teaching was key to my learning at ASB. Mr. Mirza was more than a teacher. He was a confidant who believed in me from the first moment. Ms. Monds saw I was passionate about writing and encouraged me to use my traits in writing as an advantage to become a better writer. I’m sure I forget teachers and other experiences that inspired me, as everyone was always extremely supportive.”
While a student at ASB, Xènia was involved in Model United Nations and the school soccer team. She fondly recalls trips to Milan and Lisbon for MUN.
“ASB teachers work so hard to motivate students, to help them find their worth and develop their passions. For me, it was rewarding to complete my studies there.”
Originally from The Netherlands, Jan Davidzon '16 attended ASB from Grades 10-12 together with his three siblings, two of whom also graduated from ASB.
Following high school, Jan completed a BSc in International Business Administration at the Erasmus University in Rotterdam (EUR), within the Rotterdam School of Management faculty. He is currently pursuing his Masters in Strategic Management at EUR, although has postponed his thesis to next year to make room for an internship at Caldic in Rotterdam - a global full-service solution provider for food, pharma, personal care, and industrial markets - which he will commence in September.
Which teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"I had a good connection with all my teachers at ASB and I think that each teacher taught me a lot."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I was part of the ASB basketball team as well as one outside of school. I was in a band with my friends where I played the drums. We used to play at school quite often, and we also performed at our graduation and the annual talent show. I also helped with the RefugArt charity auction as the auctioneer and organized our Prom.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"Graduation probably. It was a bittersweet moment as I knew I wouldn't see my friends as much as I had during high school as everyone would be leaving on new adventures to college in different countries etc."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"It was effortless to feel at home. From my first week, I already had a great group of friends with whom I still speak. I had a lot of fun during my time in Barcelona and ASB.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"For me, it was mostly fun and refreshing. People came and went, which made it a school that was constantly changing."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Paris-born Leah Daymon '16 attended ASB from Grades 3 through 12. The youngest of three siblings to attend ASB (brother Ruben '11 and sister Anath '09 also graduated from the school), Leah considers Barcelona home, having spent most of her childhood here. Her parents still reside in Barcelona.
A recent Marketing and Entrepreneurship graduate from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, Leah currently works as a Brand Strategist at an advertising agency in Paris. Additionally, she creates digital illustrations printed on canvas as original home decor (on Instagram @leah_getscreative).
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"Every teacher I had at ASB was genuinely inspiring; I felt very close to them.
One of my favorite experiences was Halloween. I was responsible for the choreography of our grade-level performance in our annual school-wide Halloween show. I remember our senior year re-creating School of Rock's Battle of the Bands.
During the IB, I took HL History and ended up in a class composed of only two other students and our teacher, Mr.Speier. I remember Mr. Speier made the most of the situation. His passion for teaching was truly inspirational; he wanted us to succeed. That class naturally became close, and I can confidently say it was my favorite class."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I was part of the soccer team and had the opportunity to travel with my team for tournaments. If I have one regret, it's that I didn't join earlier!!"
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"It's hard to choose just one!
I loved Sports Day every year!! It was always a day full of joy, laughter, and good weather. One year, the entire school learned the same choreography during our PE dance unit. At Sports Day, we performed it all together. It was hilarious.
I also loved Spirit Week and recall dressing up every day that week. My personal favorite was pajama day.
And, of course, graduation! After ten years at ASB, it was definitely a moment full of happiness but also nostalgia."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"There is so much that makes ASB special. I think it comes down to the unique teacher-student relationship. I was able to build close relationships with several teachers over the years. They truly cared about us, not only academically but also as individuals. I believe ASB teachers are great at finding the right balance between friendship and mentorship.
Also, the international student body is so unique. After graduation, we all spread throughout the world. Today, I have friends to visit all over the globe."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Welcoming."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born in Brussels with Dutch nationality, Eva De Jong ‘16, attended the American School of Barcelona for four years, together with her younger brother, Noah ‘19. Following ASB, Eva studied at Ramon Llull University, graduating top of her class with a Bachelor in Tourism and Hospitality Management. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Human Resources at Tilburg University in The Netherlands.
Throughout her studies, Eva worked at some of the best hotels in the world, including Hotel Arts Barcelona and Hyatt Regency Sydney. “I look forward to continuing to explore different companies from a Human Resource perspective.”
Recalling her teachers at ASB, Eva reflects, “I learned many different lessons from many different teachers; however, I distinctly remember Mr. Wager teaching me to believe in myself and to become more confident in my capabilities. Thanks to him, I was able to grow into the passionate person I am today.”
Eva is grateful for the opportunities she had to create and run events like Open Mic Nights and BISA Talent Shows while a student at ASB. “Creating events like these and witnessing them grow over the years has been one of the most rewarding experiences.”
Eva shares how her graduation ceremony was the most memorable recollection of her time at ASB. “The sense of accomplishment I felt that day, as well as seeing my whole class come together for a final hurrah, is definitely a memory I recall very fondly.”
“ASB is a truly international environment with highly supportive teachers and staff, offering amazing opportunities to students. The idea that ‘you can do anything you set your heart and mind to’ is something that ASB has always tried to instill in all of its students.”
Hugo Madge León ‘16 attended the American School of Barcelona for five years, following which he completed his BSc in Molecular Biology at the University of Edinburgh. He is currently pursuing a MSc in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics at ETH Zürich.
“The summer before I went to university, I taught myself to code in Python. Many of my undergraduate classes were computer science-related; I had a passion for it. I found this niche (yet ever-growing) field that combined my academic passions for computer science and biology and built my skills in these areas. I am currently focusing on Computational Biology, particularly research into precision medicine and disease prediction. I plan to further my studies with a Ph.D. in Switzerland, continuing my research in precision medicine.”
Hugo credits many of the life lessons he experienced with ASB teachers for his chosen path in life today. “Mr. Llamazares, my IB Biology teacher, not only built and maintained my interest in the field that would end up defining my career, but he was also a close friend with whom I spent a lot of my time in my final years at ASB.” He also credits time with Mr. Bolivar (IB HL Math), Mr. Mackey (8th Grade homeroom), and Mr. Speier (10th-12th Grade History teacher) to have positively influenced his life.
“When I started at ASB, I felt instantly welcomed by a loving community with like-minded students. I felt free to be myself and appreciated the opportunities that ASB provided to my classmates and me. We were encouraged to do better, to set and achieve higher goals and expectations for ourselves, yet at the same time, there was this great sense of belonging.”
As an ASB student, Hugo competed on the Varsity Basketball team and participated in Model United Nations. He fondly remembers traveling internationally to compete against other international schools across Europe and the Mediterranean (ESC and AMAC) for basketball and attending MUN conferences in Lisbon, Milan, and The Hague.
“The skills I learned during my time in MUN still stick with me today, particularly debating, researching, and organization.”
ASB alumna Ana Holschuh is back on campus to support community service together with Ms. Marta Vernet, Head of Activities and Community Service. Ana attended ASB for 11 years with her brother, Max. Following ASB, she attended Parsons School of Design, The New School in NYC, where she graduated with a dual-degree in Integrated Design and Global Studies. Currently, Ana is pursuing a postgraduate degree in Children’s Illustration at EINA University School of Design and Art of Barcelona.
In addition to supporting service learning at the neighboring organization Fundación Asproseat, an occupational center for people with disabilities, Ana is also helping to organize ASB’s annual student-led fundraiser, RefugART, aimed at raising awareness on the global refugee crisis.
“I am involved in some exciting collaborative projects with ASB students, like creating a short documentary about the migration stories found within our own ASB community.”
When asked to describe her professional experience and aspirations, Ana shares, “I’m a designer, researcher, and illustrator deeply passionate about using community-based design, media, and art to create a positive social impact.
I have a wide range of experiences working with nonprofits and community-based organizations. In the past years, I have brought free arts programming to homeless shelters and social service centers in NYC, co-created resources to help teachers implement participatory budgeting in their schools, and supported a youth media collective formed of residents living in informal settlements in Cape Town.
In my free time, you can find me sketching all over Barcelona”.
ASB will always hold a special place in Ana’s heart. She recognizes many attributes that ASB ignited in her as a student.
“ASB was a place where I could grow as a person beyond the classroom in a myriad of ways, and that is what I cherished most about my time there. I recall the campaigns raising awareness about how galgo dogs are treated, the exciting guest speakers that attended our assemblies, and leading a milk collection at school that I then donated to El Banc d’Aliments… I always felt a sense of community and care for others beyond our own school, and I think this has only gotten stronger throughout the years. Today, I see myself as a very multidisciplinary person that belongs in a multitude of spaces at once: the design world, the academic sphere, the nonprofit world, at community service centers, etc. I think ASB was the starting point where I let myself grow in more than one direction without being scared of having to define my passions in only one set, prescribed way.”
Reflecting on ASB teachers who impacted and inspired her as a student, Ana joyfully shares,
“I was part of the after-school program organized by Ms. Marta Vernet called Bridging Through Art, which was my first experience being part of an art workshop with people with disabilities at the neighboring organization Fundación Asproseat. Looking back, I can now see the huge impact this had in my life, as I now continue to search for ways in which my work and passion intersect with social justice causes, and am interested in art as a powerful, therapeutic tool to create social connections. Today, I am now leading workshops at Asproseat with ASB students who are having their own experiences bringing arts programming to people with disabilities, and it feels like such a great, wholesome, full-circle moment in my life! I have to thank Marta for connecting me with impactful service learning opportunities from such a young age.”
“I remember Ms. Ana Martinez, my IB Visual Arts teacher, was such a caring, loving person that always brought her full self into the room and made students feel comfortable opening up. She helped me feel empowered to pursue my studies in the world of the arts. In her classes, I created my first pieces of art criticizing society’s unjust structures.”
“Ms. Charmaine Monds, my English Literature Teacher, helped me realize how passionate I was about analyzing written texts and prose, which pushed me to better understand society’s systems and structures… Today, as a designer, these are skills that I continue to harness in my work by envisioning better services and products with and for people.”
Norwegian, Vilde McKellar Nilsen ‘16, attended ASB from Grades 10 to 12, together with her younger sister, Karoline, who was in Grades 6 to 9. She is currently in her last semester at the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) where she has been studying for the last five years (except for an exchange semester in Melbourne, Australia) for a MSc in Economics and Business Administration with a specialization in Strategy and Management.
“I will start working in Sopra Steria in Oslo as a Business Consultant this fall. I’m excited to enter the “real world” and contribute to something of value. I’m passionate about sustainability and climate change, and I’m hoping that my future role will allow me to put sustainability on the agendas of companies across Norway and Scandinavia.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Ms. Corral (SLL) and Ms. Nash (English Lang & Lit) are the teachers who really made me feel welcome with their warm nature and encouragement. Their classes were always fun and lighthearted, and the SLL class especially felt like a small family.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was a part of Sharing to Learn for two years at the same local school and really enjoyed that. It was also a great chance for me as a foreigner to get a deeper insight into the Catalan culture.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Definitely my graduation, it was a fun event and a great ending to three wonderful years. I also loved spirit week, Halloween, International Day and every other event! They really brought out the multicultural spirit of ASB and connected people across grades and nationalities.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The strong feeling of community that they’ve managed to create despite people coming and going continuously.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Opportunity.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born in Argentina with Spanish and Austrian heritage, Paulina Molinari ‘16 considers herself a citizen of the world, having lived in multiple countries following her father’s career, including Argentina, Switzerland, Belgian, Germany, Mexico and Spain. She attended ASB from Grades 1 through 12, studying Management of Business and Technology with a specialization in Digital Marketing at La Salle University/Ramon Llull in Barcelona following high school.
Paulina is currently working in the Information Technology & Services Industry as a Demand Generation and Digital Marketing Executive for VILT Group in Barcelona. She is responsible for the Southern European market and leads the Digital Marketing initiatives for the company.
Which teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“There are so many teachers from ASB that have helped me become the person I am today. If I have to say two, I am forever grateful for Marta Luján and Mamen Laguna. They became like family to me.”
Tell us a little about any service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I was involved in an oral history project, which I greatly remember. I had the opportunity to visit an elderly home for a year and have wonderful recollections of conversations I shared with an impressive woman called Montserrat, whom I wrote a biography for.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Ski week and graduation!”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
The cultural mix
Community feeling, respect, and support
Teacher-student relationships (teachers were always willing to help students get to the point where they learn how to help each other. Also, students were regularly motivated and appreciated during school assemblies)
Barcelona born and raised, Lucía Muntadas-Prim Aris '16, comes from a long line of ASB'ers. Both her parents attended ASB - her mother, Maria del Mar Aris, in Grades 1 and 2 ('74 to' 76) and her father, Luis Muntadas-Prim, from K3 to G11 ('71 to '86) - both her younger brothers, Luis (G12) and Guille (G9), currently attend ASB, and Lucía herself attended ASB from PK3 to 12th grade (15 years).
Graduating from Tulane University in 2020 with a degree in Political Science and Management, Lucía recently completed a fellowship with Phone2Action, which promotes grassroots digital advocacy, where she specifically worked on their Civic Action Center, which serves as a one-stop-shop for voters.
"I am passionate about social justice and committed to affecting long-lasting and meaningful change. I am currently pursuing opportunities that involve policy research and analysis. The organizations I am interviewing with focus on affecting policy and legislation related to issues such as education policy, immigration policy, poverty eradication, and criminal justice reform."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular you were involved in at ASB.
"I played volleyball from 8th grade until senior year. My coaches, Mr. Mitch and later Mr. Andre, were absolutely incredible! They made an enormous effort to ensure we could play against local teams instead of only participating in the international tournaments that lasted only a few days.
I was also very involved in Model United Nations, which I joined my freshman year. The international conferences, such as IMUN and THIMUN were particularly memorable, and Mr. Maas was an incredible leader who worked so hard to build the MUN program at ASB and ultimately lead and support us in hosting our own BCNMUN, which continues today. During my time in MUN, I participated in Human Rights committees as often as possible. Eventually, I presided over the Human Rights Committee at BCNMUN 2014. MUN is where my passion for social justice and human rights was born."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"AMAC tournaments, falling down the stage stairs during our 8th-grade promotion, BCNMUN, Sports days!, International Days!!, 2016 Graduation and party on school grounds (that was a blast!)."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"I think ASB is unique for many reasons. It's a multicultural, multilingual environment, which not many students in Spain have the opportunity to experience.
I also think that teachers make a big effort to get to know their students and care about them on a level that goes beyond the classroom. Teachers were always understanding of any personal issues with their students and made themselves available to support them in any way they could. I really appreciated all my teachers at ASB and don't think it would be fair to name just one or a few."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Community."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Originally from Argentina, Josefina Premoli attended ASB together with her three siblings for 7 years before graduating in 2016. With her degree in Business Administration from ESADE Business School, Josi started work at Lorena Canals in 2020, a Barcelona-based company, specializing in washable rugs and textile accessories that are handmade from natural materials.
“The company was founded by Lorena Canals who is also an alumnus of ASB. I work in the marketing department as a Community Manager and PR Assistant. It is great to be a part of a smaller organization where I have more responsibilities and am able to see the result of my actions. I enjoy working closely with Lorena, who shares her passion with everybody in the company. It is a company I align with completely in terms of its mission, vision, and values.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“I gained something from all of my teachers at ASB. From presenting in front of the class in history to analyzing grammatical sentences in Spanish, to conducting experiments in science, it was ASB as a whole that has contributed to who I am today. The IB program and methodological way of learning, in particular, taught me how to analyze, create and present, something that stays with me today.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“One of my favorite ASB memories has to be Halloween. It was always an event that united the whole school and showed the diversity of the community.
I also want to highlight the IB Visual Arts Exhibition. It was a very special day because it was something we worked towards for months and brought all of the Visual Arts students together. It was a very memorable event where we shared all of our hard work with our peers, teachers, family, and friends and made us all very proud.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“In my opinion, the sense of community is what makes ASB special. Events such as International Day, Open Mic Nights, and Feed the Future always gave a sense of belonging. There is something in ASB for everyone and such events would bring people from different backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs together for a specific concept or concern they were all interested in.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Laura Sabaté Vernet comes from a family of ASB'ers. Her grandmother, Montse Yll, was one of the founding teachers of the school back in 1962. Her mother, Marta Vernet, also an ASB student, graduated from the Class of 1985 and is today on staff as Head of Community Service. Laura and her sister, Maria, both followed suit studying at ASB, graduating in 2016 and 2013, respectively.
"When I graduated, I didn't have a clear idea of what I wanted to study, so I decided to take a gap year dedicated to creating experiences for myself related to communications. That year was amazing. I started off traveling to Canada, working in public relations for Spain at the Vancouver Fashion Week. Later, I worked as the community manager at a ski school in Cerdanya, finishing the winter season 16/17. Then I traveled to the West Coast of the United States to work as a soccer coach at FC Barcelona camps. It was an unforgettable year, which, despite obstacles that I had to overcome, helped me develop many skills, and shape the person I am today. Leaving home and having to work and sustain myself at the age of eighteen was no easy feat, however, those experiences helped to develop my interest in advertising and public relations."
Laura is currently in her final year of advertising and public relations at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. As her current studies are remote, she has combined her studies with work. She is currently a robotics and English teacher in l'Empordà, a region in the north of Catalunya, and a ski instructor in Masella, which she has done for the past four years. "Kids are my passion!" she shares.
Laura remembers teachers from ASB fondly. "I remember I used to lapse and call my teachers 'mom' when I was young. Teachers like Ms. Laia Solé, Ms. Sandra Mitjana, Mr. Macky, Mr. López, Ms. Montse Pérez, or the kitchen staff (Chari, Montse, Chema) are all teachers and staff that I still carry in my heart."
During her years at ASB, Laura participated in many extracurricular activities, however, her involvement in the ASB soccer teams from Grade 1 through 12 was the most special. "Throughout my high school years, I was the captain of the varsity girls team, and that is something I am super proud of." She also recalls being involved in meaningful service opportunities such as Feed the Future, her ninth-grade outreach, and Sant Joan de Deu charity dinners.
When asked to recall a favorite ASB memory, Laura responds, "Without doubt, all those tournaments with AMAC and ESC with my super team, traveling through Europe and getting to know girls from other grades, that turned into a family for me. Also, the Ski Weeks of which I was part of from Grade 4 to 12. I didn't miss any!"
"ASB is a place where you always want to come back. It's like a family. I feel at home whenever I'm there," reminisces Laura.
Her advice to current students would be to "enjoy these years. Enjoy every little moment. They will be, without doubt, some of the happiest of your life!"
A second-generation ASB'er, Pablo Torelló Durán '16, attended ASB for three years, in grades 10-12. His mother, Mercedes Durán, also attended the school, graduating together with ASB's Head of Community Service and Activities, Ms. Marta Vernet, in 1985.
"I'm very grateful to my parents for sending me to ASB. I have let them know this many times!"
Following high school, Pablo studied Business Management and Technology at La Salle - Universitat Ramon Llull in Barcelona, graduating in 2020.
"I am currently working in Berlin for a tech unicorn start-up that is scaling super fast!! It's changing the entire logistics industry in Europe, and it is very exciting."
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"I had many incredible teachers that opened my mind and helped me get to where I am today. But I kindly remember Mr. Santi Bragulat and Ms. Mamen; they were both great teachers, they pushed me hard so I would excel, and they inspired me on a personal level too."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"In grade 10, I helped as an English teaching assistant at a Catalan public school - it was a great experience that I won't forget. Additionally, I participated in Model United Nations (MUN) for three years. I highly recommend everyone to take part, both as a participant and as an organizer."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"I have many, many good memories… from soccer trips to Milan and Geneva, all the way to the graduation party. But I will always remember with special care the lunch breaks with my friends, just messing around and having fun. I made long-lasting friendships that are still very strong, years later."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The diversity is what made it special for me, people from all over the world, with different backgrounds and aspirations. I look back now and realize how we all followed our dreams, and today we are all walking different paths, but ASB will always be there to connect us. That is what's special; it's not just a school, it's a sense of belonging."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Community."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet María Dos Santos '15, who attended ASB for nine years, Grades 4 to 12. Following high school, María studied at Lorenzo de 'Medici Institute in Florence, Italy, receiving a double degree in BS Studio Arts and Media and Communication Concentration in Animation. She completed her fourth year in Poughkeepsie, New York, graduating in 2019.
Currently a freelance artist, she is working on several projects. "The one I'm most proud to be part of is a video game from Metal Ramen Studio. It is currently under production, and I am part of the Concept Art department designing the creatures in the game. I am also working on designing and creating an album cover for an upcoming Austrian Rock band called EAZY."
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"I'm grateful for the patience of all my teachers, especially since all I cared about was creating Art (sorry, Mr. López!), and I thank them for it because I wouldn't be where I am today."
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
"I was involved in many, it's hard to recall all of them, but the SEED program, food bank, and beach cleaning come to mind."
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"Our IB Art Exhibition and spending time in the Art room with my fellow art classmates."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The diverse community and the different opportunities the school provided."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Supportive."
Anything else you would like to share?
I want to share something someone told me in Florence: "You can learn something from every person you meet." I have lived with this in mind ever since and honestly believe everyone truly has something to offer. In their field, in their view of life, in their way of living, whether it be negative or positive. So it is a great way to listen to people and see what they have to offer. I want to share this because I'm learning that communicating with people is essential for the health and nurture of the mind. Plus, you get to learn something new!
Born to a Mayan/Japanese father and a Chinese, mother, Ian was born in Mexico City before moving to Dallas, Texas, when he was 7, and later to Barcelona when he was 14. He attended ASB together with his sister, Elizabeth, and graduated a year after her in 2015.
Can you tell us which university you attended and what you studied?
“New York University, Journalism and Global Liberal Studies.”
How has life been since ASB? What are you up to today?
“It’s been very interesting and tumultuous (lol), but in mostly good ways. While at NYU, I interned at several media companies including Time Out, Quartz, and PBS. I also studied abroad in Shanghai for a semester, which was one of the best experiences of my life. I graduated from NYU in May 2019 and since then, I started a youth culture magazine called Chaos+Comrades (@chaosandcomrades) that covers issues that affect people with marginalized identities (think: LGBTQ, immigrants, etc.) which got 100,000+ unique visits at the height of the Black Lives Matter movement. I’ve also been freelance writing and my articles have recently been published in the New York Times, Washington Post, VICE and other publications.”
What experiences or teachers from ASB inspired who you are today?
“I love this question because there were so many. The people who really stick out in my mind are Lori Lauscher, who was also a mentor to me outside of school, Melissa Leighty, and Michael Hennessy. Honestly, the most magical thing to me about ASB is how your teachers also become mentors and later, friends. They are all really interesting people with fascinating stories. I joined NESDA (the public speaking club) because I’ve always been super introverted and terrified of public speaking. Overcoming my fear of speech was one of the most life-changing and important experiences I could have had. One year, I think it was 2014, we went to compete in Berlin and I won third runner-up, which doesn’t sound that glorious but felt really good because it was something I’ve never been naturally good at.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Definitely the Halloween Dance in my senior year of High School. We were all so silly and I don’t know if this was unique to my year, but everyone in my class got along so well. We all had the same ironic sense of humor and when you got everyone in a group, it was like this strange symphony of people who were so different but who all loved each other. We couldn’t stop laughing when you put us all in a group, which I can imagine might have been frustrating for some teachers lol. I remember one of my closest friends at the time, Leon, and I opened the Halloween Dance by lip-syncing the national anthem by Beyonce. Just crazy stuff.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“This might be a tired cliche, but the diversity. Honestly, it’s so special what being surrounded by people from so many different countries can do to your perception of the world. Also, it’s not a cliquey school at all and no one is mean to each other which gives us room to think about other, more important stuff.”
Any advice for ASB high school students?
“Don’t obsess over rigid ideas of success! I think it’s inevitable if you are an ambitious person to fall into certain traps - i.e. thinking IB tests are the most important thing in the world or that the university you attend will make or break your career. That’s absolutely not true. As long as you are genuine, work hard, and have a positive attitude about things, I promise you will get much further in life than someone who is obsessed with labels and big names.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Cozy.”
Anything else you would like to share?
“I just want to say I am eager and happy to connect with any current students who want a career in writing and/or media. I know I would have benefited a lot from more mentorship in those areas since no one in my family worked in a related field. They can visit my personal website (www.jikumamoto.com/) in case they are interested to see my work."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born and raised in Spain with Mexican heritage on her mother’s side, Carolina Rodrigo ‘15 attended ASB for fifteen years, from PK3 to Grade 12. Her older brother, Sergio, also attended ASB, graduating from the Class of 2012.
While pursuing a degree in Marketing and Sales Management at University Abat Oliba CEU in Barcelona, Carolina decided to apply for a year abroad her junior year. She moved to Houston, Texas, to attend the University of St Thomas and enjoyed the experience so much she stayed to complete her senior year. “I am glad I was able to experience college life in both Spain and the United States.”
Upon graduation in 2019, Carolina interned at Stanley Black & Decker until the Covid pandemic hit. “Once the pandemic hit Spain, I decided to follow my passion and start an online bakery. I have always wanted to own my own business, follow my passions, and start a new venture.”
While the business is still growing, Hello Sweet BCN (@hellosweetbcn) is increasing in popularity. “I enjoy bringing unique and personalized desserts to our clients. Plus, I get to work with my mom, which I love,” she shares.
While many ASB teachers had an impact on her life, Carolina highlights her HS Spanish teacher, Ms. Mercedes, and IB Economics teacher, Mr. Mirza.
“ASB is special. The different cultures, customs, and experiences make each person in the school so unique and valuable. Growing up, I always looked forward to social events at school, such as the Winter Bazaar, Halloween, or International Day.”
When asked to share advice to seniors, Carolina reflects, “Always try your best but don’t be too hard on yourself. Life is not a race. Overall, ALWAYS be kind; you never know what someone else is going through behind closed doors.”
Hailing from Stockholm, Sweden, Alexander Schreij '15 attended ASB in Grades 11 and 12. After receiving his Bachelors in Business and Economics in 2019 from the Stockholm School of Economics, Alexander commenced work as an Operations Manager in the health-tech industry to sell consumer health testing products online.
"I am currently building an e-commerce business platform with the ambition to work full time as an entrepreneur within 12 months."
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"My time at ASB was among the best years of my life, both in regards to the intellectual challenge of the IB program, but also due to the students and staff at the school. It truly felt like family; we were in it together, helping each other develop to the next level.
Special thanks to my teachers, Mr. Mirza in Economics HL, Ms. Monds in English HL, and Mr. Wager in Math SL. Mr. Mirza and I used to stay at school late to work on my Extended Essay, which ended up being one of the best he ever saw! Ms. Monds taught me how to study text carefully, to be critical and thoughtful of every word I wrote, skills that I've had great use for after ASB. And Mr. Wager's energy, humor, and pragmatism helped me through the tough times in math, reminding me to this day that mindset is everything. We still have contact today.
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
"Writing the last IB exam, of course!"
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"The close community, the staff's love for teaching, and talented and ambitious students."
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
"Transformational."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Born in Switzerland to British/Lebanese parents, Gabriela “Gabby” Sophie Simes ‘14 calls Spain home, having grown up here from the age of three. She attended ASB for four years, Grades 9 through 12, attending The University of Stirling following high school, where she graduated with a degree in Business Management and Marketing.
“I’m currently working in the marketing department at Lucas Fox International Properties in Barcelona. After living in the United Kingdom for five years, I returned here in 2019. Barcelona will always be my home!”
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“Although I wasn’t the biggest fan of public speaking when I was younger, the teachers and curriculum at ASB really pushed me to work on and improve this skill over the years, for which I am now thankful. I even ended up participating in Model United Nations, something I never thought I’d have done!!”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I participated in MUN and AMAC sports competitions in my final two years at ASB, but I wish I’d taken advantage and got involved earlier! I traveled to Rabat, Morocco, with the volleyball team and Milan, Italy, for MUN, two experiences that I’ll never forget.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Many...! Just off the top of my head, Halloween was always a great laugh, International Day, graduation, and our senior trip to Ibiza.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“I felt that all of the teachers were extremely experienced and cared about us all individually. Additionally, all of the extracurricular activities, sports tournaments, and the variety of subjects available, especially within the IB program, make ASB unique and special.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Diverse (especially in terms of nationalities)!”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
With roots in Ireland, Italy, and Spain, Tommy Collins '13 attended the American School of Barcelona in grades 10 to 12. Following graduation, he studied Sports, Entertainment, and Event Management at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. He then returned to Barcelona and completed a degree in Sports Management from EU Business School, later finishing his Master's in Sports Marketing Management at ESIC Business and Marketing School.
"I am passionate about the sports and entertainment industry."
Throughout his studies, Tommy worked in several roles. He volunteered for a sports and entertainment agency in the US and, upon returning to Spain, started working in sales and account management within different industries. He is currently working as a Key Account Executive for Oddschecker Global Media within the sports betting and entertainment industry while managing the social media for a golf club in Sant Cugat.
While at ASB, Tommy was an active member of the basketball and football teams. It's no surprise that one of his favorite memories is the AMAC Soccer tournament 2012 in Puigcerdá.
With roots in Israel and the United States, Daniel Korman ‘13 attended ASB in grades 11 and 12. Following graduation, he studied Business and Economics at Northeastern University, where he attended the D’Amore-McKim School of Business. While at college, Daniel co-founded a company with two friends - Blurr, an event-driven photo-sharing app that connects people who are in the same place at the same time. “It was an exciting time. We had so many great ideas and so much inspiration.” He currently oversees operations for Uber Eats in New York City.
Tell us a little about any extracurricular or service activities you were involved in at ASB.
“I played on the varsity soccer and basketball teams - shout out to Coach Tex! Following high school, I continued playing soccer in Spain for a year. Later I played Division 1 soccer at Northeastern University.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“Winning back-to-back AMAC soccer championships!”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The students and teachers at ASB were extremely welcoming from day one. I enjoyed the diversity of people in such a small community. I made some lifelong memories and friendships along the way, which I’m very grateful for.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
ASB alumni, Victoria Puglia, has been awarded the highly prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to attend Oxford University next year, where she plans to pursue a Master's in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies and, later, a Master's in Global Governance and Diplomacy.
Born to a Spanish mother and Italian-American father, Victoria spent much of her early childhood in Barcelona, where she was a student at the American School of Barcelona from Pre-Kindergarten until Grade 8. "I always thought I would graduate from ASB!" she admits, adding, "being together with everyone from so young, there was a strong sense of community and solidarity with those around me. I noticed that was missing when I left the school."
"I am incredibly proud of Victoria and her Rhodes Scholarship," said school Director, Mr. Mark Pingitore. "Her commitment to improving the living conditions of refugees and her scholarly research and fieldwork on this global crisis exemplify the type of active leadership we hope our students can have in international communities. It is especially inspiring to see a young adult have such a positive impact and profound drive to help others. I am confident that her studies at Oxford University will help her achieve her dream of improving the living conditions of refugees around the world."
Currently a Senior at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania, studying International Affairs, Victoria explains how a semester of study abroad in Uganda during her sophomore year fueled her growing interest and research into refugee resettlement, assimilation, and livelihood opportunities. "Part of the program was a one-month field research opportunity, and I decided to go to the North of Uganda to research the effects of unstable humanitarian food aid on food and human security in South Sudanese refugee settlements. My honors thesis currently looks at the relationship between acute food shocks and food insecurity on patterns of migration across sub-Saharan Africa."
Passionate about intentional and mindful travel, Victoria shares that while at Lafayette, she has worked several jobs to fund annual interim trips to Senegal, India, and Peru. "I would encourage everyone to travel if they have the opportunity. In terms of self-growth, it's one of the best things you can do."
"Growing up, I've always been a naturally curious person, and that curiosity has guided me. I'm very intrinsically motivated."
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#ASBTogether #Lynx4Life
Following graduation, alum Guillem Ros Salvador ‘13 studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Surrey. Rather than follow a traditional career path he decided to try his hand as an entrepreneur and started his own business. Today he is the co-founder of a fitness app called Hevy, where he designs, and grows the app to thousands of athletes worldwide.
“We started Hevy in 2019 when I started going to the gym and found it hard to track my progress and stay motivated. I really missed the sense of community at the gym, so this was a really important aspect for me to build into the product.”
Hevy is a workout tracking app that lets athletes intuitively log their workouts, track progress with insightful analytics and be part of a motivating community of gym athletes.
Unlike other fitness apps, Hevy has a hands-off approach. “We don’t tell athletes how to work out; we simply provide them with the tools to be more successful in their training.”
Hevy was built without any investor funding. “We didn't raise any money from investors because we wanted to run an independent business that is sustainable and lean.”
With a recent hit of 300,000 athletes on the platform and 1,000,000 athletes expected to join this year, Hevy is looking to expand. To find out more information on the app, visit www.hevyapp.com.
"Being a student at ASB taught me how to think critically and prepared me for university. ASB has fantastic teachers, my favorite were Mr. Mirza, Mr. Bolivar, and Mr. Bartlett. My time at ASB also had unforgettable experiences like AMAC, Ski Trips, MUN, or Habitat for Humanity in Nepal."
Maria Sabaté Vernet ‘13 is a third-generation ASB’er who attended the school for 15 years since PK3.
"My grandmother was a founding teacher at ASB in 1962, my mom, aunts, and sister, Laura '16, also graduated from the school, and my mom, Marta Vernet '85, is currently on staff as the Head of Community Service and Activities."
Maria attended University Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona, graduating with a degree in Political Science. She is currently working at Gosbi Pet Food where she is in charge of Corporate Social Responsibility and Communications.
“I’ve always loved animals and working on social projects, so combining these passions is truly an enriching dream.”
Maria’s current project involves traveling around Spain in a camper van, spreading awareness of the realities of animal welfare, and highlighting the importance of animal respect. You can follow her project on Instagram @animalrespect_ontour.
Let’s hear about some of her most memorable experiences at ASB.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“ASB’s entire educational vision inspired who I am today. I am very grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow in an environment where all ideas were possible. I felt there were never walls, only bridges and our teachers were always there to boost our creativity and individualism.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I loved sports days, Delta del Ebro trip in 5th grade, ski trips, and graduation, of course. I also remember one time in 6th grade they allowed me to bring my dogs to school, and I was the happiest person ever (always pushing for pet-friendly spaces ;P)!”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“ASB is special because of the familiar atmosphere once you cross its doors. When I was a student, the school was smaller and I knew everyone there. It’s a place I can always call home.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
Alumna and musician Clàudia Baulies ‘11 attended the American School of Barcelona from grades 7 to 12, attending the Berklee College of Music after graduation. Today, she is a music composer, writing both filmscores and contemporary concert music and occasionally modern music.
“I’m just releasing my first CD, which has been a massively long journey. Countless hours over several years have gone into this project, into which I’ve poured my heart and soul (and sweat and tears, too!). At the same time, I’m working on three new films, two short films and a feature film, for which I’m doing the sound design and the music composition. It’s quite an experience being in charge of the entire sound spectrum of a film: unifying sound design and music into a single language that works in sync with the image to create a piece of art greater than the sum of its parts.”
Clàudia started playing the violin when she was three, so music has always been a big part of her life. During her senior year at ASB, she realized she didn’t want her life to revolve around anything else. “I didn’t want music to be a “side thing.” So I decided to find my path in the music industry. I found a great mentor who introduced me to composition and soon realized it was what I wanted to do. I couldn’t and still can’t imagine myself doing anything else.”
Besides her work as a composer, Clàudia is also teaching music part-time. “I’m teaching individual instrument lessons at a music school, and I’m currently a substitute teacher in the Performing Arts department at ASB. I’m also teaching after-school drama to elementary students at ASB. It’s slightly away from music but still within the arts.”
When asked about experiences and teachers at ASB that might have inspired her later in life, Clàudia responds, “Too many to count. Teachers at ASB are role models: independent thinkers, great individuals whose passion is to help you become your best self. So many teachers at ASB were greatly inspiring figures. To name a few, my English teachers, Ms. Mac, Ms. Hunt, and Ms. Lauscher taught me to dive to the deepest depths of what I was reading and brought my love for literature to a whole new level; World History teacher, Mr. Maas taught me to see the bigger picture, to question power; IB Math teacher Ms. Sosnowska taught me to think outside the box (waaay outside the box!); Mr. Bartlett’s IB physics class gave me a new perspective on how the universe works, sometimes strange, often mind-bending, yet always beautiful; Ms. Cole’s IB psych class gave me a new and deeper understanding on who we are as human beings; Ms. Bronwyn, of course, who always believed I’d end up becoming a musician way before the thought had even entered my mind and gave me her support every step of the way. I’ve left many great figures out, but I could go on and on.”
As a new student in 7th grade, Clàudia joined the MAIS choir and traveled with the group to Casa Blanca. “I have great memories from that trip!” She has many other good memories from her days at ASB but admits her favorite would probably be sharing the bus ride home with her best friend, Liria. “Still my best friend.”
Argentinian-born, Micaela Ocampo, has fond memories of ASB, having attended the school from grades one to five (2006-2011), together with her younger brother, Axel. “I have lived in many different countries like Spain, Canada, and now the United States. I am currently settled in Washington D.C. and plan to stay here for the foreseeable future.”
Currently a junior at George Mason University, where she is pursuing a degree in Marketing and International Business, Micaela is also undertaking a Marketing and Communications internship at Airbus U.S. while also working as a Digital Marketing and Social Media Specialist at her university.
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“My favorite ASB memory would have to be the annual Halloween parade. Seeing the entire school’s costumes and performances was so much fun and something that everyone looked forward to since Halloween was not a popular event in Barcelona. I remember sitting on the Red Poli court with my friends and watching the students and teachers perform in their costumes and makeup. After a day full of treats, scary movies, and costumes at school, we would trick or treat around the neighboring La Mallola compound during the evening.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“Aside from the close-knit community, ASB is special because of the immense diversity there is. Since it is an international school, students can learn and gain different perspectives from students and faculty from all over the world.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“Unforgettable.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Pau Tallada '08 attended ASB for 15 years, from PK3 to 12th grade.
"ASB felt like home. My mother was a secondary Catalan teacher who also taught me in 8th and 12th grades."
Following graduation, Pau commenced mechanical vocational training and then later training in social integration, following his passion for working with and helping people who have experienced difficulties in their lives.
A talented musician, Pau has played the guitar for many years and is also part of a well-known Catalonian percussion band called Karabassà. He recently commenced a new music project called "Julia i Pau" with his partner, Julia, where he plays the guitar, and she sings in Catalan. Previously, Pau worked as a music teacher with children and has also enjoyed being a mountain guide.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
"I was inspired by my chemistry teacher, Mr. Mark Smith, and enjoyed his learning techniques. Mr. Pacheco was always so kind and encouraging. It was fun to talk about football and basketball with Mr. Tom Brasher (I'm a Cleveland Browns fan!). I fondly remember my art teacher, Ms. Linda Johnson, and my last homeroom teacher, Ms. Linda MacNamee.
Tell us a little about any extracurricular you were involved in at ASB.
"I remember joining a school trip to the United States where we visited Washington D.C, Philadelphia, and New York and met many American students. I had a great time."
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
"ASB is so unique. I still like to visit the campus when I can. There are times when I'm there that I feel like I'm in America. It's a feeling in my heart and mind. But then I leave and remember I'm in Catalonia. And I love that too."
Fabio Cichero '07 moved to Sweden 13 years ago to study International Business Management at Mälardalens University. Upon graduation, with the incentive to learn Swedish, he opened a cafe on an island outside of Stockholm called Gotland together with a friend, which they operated over three summers. Mission accomplished! Today, in addition to speaking Swedish, he is the Commercial Director for Yubico, a cybersecurity Swedish/American company with headquarters in Stockholm and Palo Alto.
"At Yubico, I'm focused on our Southern European markets - Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Slovenia, and Croatia. Living in Sweden, I do miss the Mediterranean weather, so I appreciate traveling for my work. I'm not made for only 3-4 hours of sun!"
Yubico's Hardware Authentication Token, a Yubikey, offers secure access to private and enterprise online accounts. Simply plugging in a Yubikey to your USB port triggers a second factor or multi-factor authentication. It's no surprise then that Yubico supports companies like Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Microsoft. Their latest version, the biometric Yubikey, even adds another level of security with a fingerprint scanner.
"People usually use their user name and password for authentication," shares Fabio, "but that is no longer sustainable; hackers have become too ingenious. With a Yubikey, you can secure your login to all your internet accounts and applications."
Reminiscing on his days at the American School of Barcelona, Fabio recalls being the first captain and quarterback of the Lynx Flag Football team in 2005, which he founded together with Mr. Miguel and Mr. Jordi. "We traveled for a couple of tournaments to Milan and France and were even sub-champions of Catalunya!"
Fabio shares that all his teachers impacted his life in their own way; however, now, he believes Mr. Maas was the most influential in hindsight. "He was my History teacher but quickly became my English teacher too because he was obsessed with English grammar."
Ms. Macmanee was also an amazing teacher. I was greatly saddened to hear of her passing. I also enjoyed chemistry with Mr. Mark, physics with Mr. Bartlett, and Mr. Brasher as a homeroom teacher."
Since Fabio's parents and sister, Manela '13, still live in Barcelona, he visits whenever he has the opportunity. "I like to drive by the ASB campus every couple of years. It has completely changed since I was a student there. The auditorium blew my mind!"
Alumna Mireia Hernández Navarro’ 07 attended the American School of Barcelona, together with her sister, Dunia Hernández ‘11.
She is currently a Financial Services Manager at Capgemini INVENT, the strategy and digital transformation business unit in Capgemini Group, based in Barcelona.
"It is crucial to discover what it is that you are passionate about. I would advise new graduates not to be afraid to make changes to find the right job/company and to choose a career that continuously pulls them outside of their comfort zone."
Mireia holds a MSc in Industrial Engineering from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. She finished her degree at Chalmers Technical University in Göteborg, Sweden, where she did an exchange program under UNITECH - a program that offers engineering graduates global awareness and management skills. Her first professional experience was at Infineon Technologies AG in Munich (Germany) - a market leader in the automotive and power semiconductors industry - where Mireia completed her Masters' thesis as well.
While at UNITECH, Mireia became involved in the Alumni Association for the program. She currently holds the position of Regional Group Coordinator for the UNITECH Barcelona Alumni Chapter.
After graduation, Mireia joined a graduate program at Ferrovial Services, where she rotated between different segments and business lines within the group. She gained a complete view of the company and was involved in different and diverse assignments during her time there. The experience allowed her to recognize her passion for consulting, a career that provides challenging short-term assignments across different capabilities and sectors, international experiences, and technology-driven solutions. Since then, Mireia has been part of the management consulting firm Capgemini INVENT, within the Capgemini Group and she could not be happier about her decision.
“You know you are in the right place when you see your learning curve is getting steeper and steeper.”
When asked about teachers at ASB who inspired her, Mireia replies, "Mr. Bartlett's passion for physics and math was one of the main reasons I studied Industrial Engineering." She further shares that "Mr. Smith's unique way of explaining Chemistry was so entertaining and still laughs when recalling all the “trucos” Mr. Smith had in order to remember reactions, formulas and Chemistry Laws."
Her favorite ASB memories include ski trips to Andorra, Halloween dances, and the Ibiza graduation trip. She also recalls being a member of the high school Student Council and participating in the Close Up Program in 2006.
"Being a part of such a multicultural community at ASB helped me develop a cultural awareness which I consider vital in the world we live in today."
Barcelonian alumna and current parent, Beatriz Sahuquillo '07, has a wide connection with the American School of Barcelona. One of three siblings to graduate (sister, Cristina '05, and brother, Carlos ‘13), her two cousins, Javier '10 and Olivia (current high school student), are also ASB'ers, and her son, Jaume, joined the PK3 community this year.
Following graduation in 2007, Beatriz studied at ESADE Business School in Barcelona, where she obtained her Master's in Business Administration. During her fourth year of studies, she secured an internship at Nestlé Waters, where she was later offered a permanent position following her final ERASMUS year at Köln University. After seven years at Nestlé Waters, Beatriz moved to Nesté Purina two years ago, where she now works as Communication Manager for the EMENA Central Team.
When asked about her decision to send her own children to ASB, Beatriz shares, "I didn't look at other schools; I knew from the beginning that my children would attend ASB. Not only is it the school I attended as a child, but both my husband and I appreciate how diverse the school is, how happy the children are there, the relationship between the teachers-students-parents, and of course, the International Baccalaureate program. Our youngest daughter, Sofía, is still only one year old, but we know she will join her brother at ASB in a couple of years."
Beatriz has fond recollections of her own days at ASB. "I have terrific memories of Chemistry with Mr. Smith and Physics with Mr. Bartlett. It was fun to see the recent news of eleventh graders practicing the fall of different objects. I remember having to throw an egg from the top of the building to understand physics - mine broke! I was also involved in IMUN with Mr. Maas. He was a very tough teacher. I remember traveling to Lisbon for a conference and representing Canada. It was the first time I had to speak in front of so many people, but it was finally a great experience."
With Halloween celebrations around the corner, Beatriz is excited to share with her son the traditions she once participated in. "He is already super excited!"
What makes ASB special?
"The people, for sure. The diversity of the families - having your children grow up learning about different cultures. And the teachers, of course. They are international and professional and provide a great education for our children:"
With roots in Brazil, Tomas Dutra Schmidt attended ASB throughout his formative years, Kindergarten to Grade 10 (1996 to 2007). His older sister, Isadora ‘01, also attended the school. Following high school, Tomas attended George Washington University (GWU), where he received his Bachelor in International Affairs and Economics. He completed his Master’s in Economics at the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics. Currently, Tomas is pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at Goethe University in Germany.
Until October 2020, Tomas worked in the International Monetary Fund. Most of his career has been in Economics, working at the European Central Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank before.
What experiences or teachers from ASB might have inspired who you are today?
“I believe Mr. Maas is one of the teachers who had the strongest influence on my writing abilities, which is funny, considering he taught history, not English.”
Tell us a little about any extracurricular activities you were involved in at ASB.
“Model United Nations (MUN) was my favorite extracurricular activity and was key in making me apply for a career in international affairs; something I pursued at my alma mater, GWU. I attended two MUN conferences in Lisbon and The Hague while at ASB, memories I am very fond of.”
What would be a favorite ASB memory?
“I was very fond of Halloween and the parades we had on campus. Back in the day, we used to be the only children dressed up in October in Barcelona, which drew a fair amount of puzzled looks on the streets. Also, I recall recess was out on just a patch of dirt, and I used to come back home with scraped knees 99% of the time.”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“A very multicultural and multilingual environment that helps students be prepared for a strongly globalized labor market.”
Once a Lynx, Always a Lynx!
#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether
Meet Jorge Quilis Giner from the Class of 2006, who attended the American School of Barcelona from Kindergarten to Grade 12, together with his older sister, Sandra ‘03. Following graduation, Jorge completed his degree in Business at ESADE Barcelona and his Masters in Finance & International Management at Richard Ivey School of Business in London, Canada. Today he is a Senior Manager at PwC in Madrid, where he is responsible for Debt Advisory & Restructuring.
“I enjoyed my years at ASB. The international community allowed me to meet students and teachers from all over the world. I learned their cultures and heard their languages. There were also many community events in the school where students, teachers, and parents could join and collaborate.”
Jorge also recalls joining school trips that enriched his learning experience. “I participated in an exchange program with a private school in Tampa, Florida, and had the opportunity to host students from that school when they came to visit us in Barcelona. I also joined the Close Up Foundation trip to Washington D.C. in Grade 11, which was a hands-on program that engaged students in learning about the U.S. government.”
Today, Jorge remains close friends with former classmates Diego Caballero Orduna, Axel Guimó Miranda, and Luis Juste Valero.
“If I have the opportunity to live and work in Barcelona one day, I would like to send my children to ASB.”
Sandra attended ASB since Kindergarten until graduation in 2003. The youngest of three - her brother, Victor ('96), and Vanessa ('99), were also graduates from ASB - Sandra studied Business Administration at Pompeu Fabra before completing her Masters in Fashion Communications at Instituto Europeo di Design in Madrid. She has since worked in management roles in fashion and retail brands in Barcelona, Dubai, and Amsterdam.
While in Amsterdam, Sandra became interested in education and the concept of developing Emotional Intelligence. She returned to Barcelona to study NLP, a course on Positive Psychology, and completed her Postgraduate work in Emotional Intelligence. At that time, she also became a substitute teacher at ASB and really enjoyed the experience.
With my business background and an entrepreneurial spirit, combined with my will to bring emotional intelligence to younger children, I came across the Montessori pedagogy. I found it to be the perfect approach and start for young children to grow resilient, strong, and autonomous," she shares.
I also wanted to bring children back to nature as I know the beneficial effects on humans. I found a lack of green environments in daycare centers within Barcelona, which is why I decided to open my school, Little Forest Montessori, as a green space daycare where kids learn to interact with nature."
My vision is to positively impact the future world's society by helping to raise individuals that demonstrate deep emotional and social awareness in the way they act and interact with society and nature."
Upon reflecting on her time as a student at ASB, Sandra comments, "I was part of a generation before the influence of social media in the world. We were grounded and very connected to our community. I hope to be able to bring that kind of connection to children of our upcoming generations too.
You can find out more about Little Forest Montessori at www.littleforestmontessori.com.
Congratulations, Sandra! We wish you all the best with your new venture!
Barcelonians, Olimpia ‘11 and Carolina ‘16 Roman, are second-generation ASB’ers who attended ASB from PK3 to 12th grade, following their mother, Lorena Canals, who was also a former student.
“Our mother always had an open mind and wanted to give us the same opportunities she had.”
Today they are the founders of a thriving children’s toy business called Oli&Carol (on Instagram @oliandcarol), offering sustainable, 100% natural rubber teethers and bath toys and natural cotton DIY textile toys for children over the age of six.
“We created Oli&Carol more than five years ago, when we were sixteen and twenty-one years old, with the aim to offer a sustainable alternative that also acted for the benefit of society. From young we had the opportunity to work in our mother’s company, Lorena Canals (on Instagram @lorenacanalsrugs), a sustainable producer of machine-washable cotton rugs for the home, and were able to receive much inspiration from such a strong, hard-working, and loving role model.
“If you work doing something you love, then it’s not work anymore.”
Since the beginning, taking care of the environment by offering only natural, sustainable products that are plastic-free and follow an artisanal handmade process, was a priority for the sisters.
Located in Barcelona, Oli&Carol is today present in over 85 countries worldwide, with plans to continue expanding and innovating with more sustainable collections and projects. With the United States being one of their largest markets with around 800 retailers including stores like Pottery Barn, Nordstrom, Barnes & Noble, it is no surprise that New York City feels like home for Olimpia and Carolina. “We really love the city and its people.”
While Olimpia received her degree in International Commerce & Marketing from Pompeu Fabra and Carolina her degree in Marketing, Communications and Public Relations from Blanquerna, both are firm believers that it was at “ASB where we received the values to be doing what we are doing now.”
Recent Oli&Carol collections have involved conveying powerful messages to little ones - healthy lifestyles with their Fruits&Veggies collection, an H2Origami Collection which donates benefits to Oceana Organization, the development of rubber toys in collaboration with Agatha Ruíz de la Prada to support AECC in the research of children’s cancer, and a new Chewy-To-Go toy called Eli-the-Clover in collaboration with Juan Carlos Unzué, which contributes towards ALS research (see the campaign here!).
What are your fondest memories of ASB teachers?
Olimpia: “Mr. Bill from 3rd grade was such an amazing teacher, he never limited our imagination and would be so inspiring. Also, classes with Mr. Pacheco in 6th grade were so fun, and we will always appreciate Mr. Jordi for creating the first girls' soccer team!”
Carolina: “I have a beautiful memory from classes with Ms. Donna Love, a fun and enthusiastic teacher who made every simple activity an amazing experience. We sang with her in class and enjoyed so many fun projects. She was constantly smiling.”
“And of course, all of the Selectividad teachers both of us had the pleasure of being in class with!”
What experiences from your days at ASB do you still recall?
Olimpia: “I remember so many moments like the annual Sports Day, Ms. Nancy saying “you can’t say you can’t play”, art classes with Ms. Linda, Science Fairs, playing soccer, Halloween shows, show & tell time with Ms. Donna, the “yo quiero tener un millón de amigos” song every Wednesday, the fun Selectividad classes with only seven of us, and not knowing what career to choose until the last minute with Ms. Magda!”
Carolina: “I remember being one of the first girls to play soccer in recess and going to tournaments with the boys' team. Also, the assemblies held in the lunchroom, the delicious chocolate croissants we bought at recess from Mr. Llamazares, Spirit Week and its costumes, and going to AMAC tournaments around the world!”
In your opinion, what makes ASB special?
“The way the teachers encourage the students to think outside the box and its continuous philosophy of introducing students to dream big and to connect with one another.”
If you could describe ASB in one word, what would it be?
“FAMILY.”
Danish Mette Haupt Hansen '02 attended the American School of Barcelona for five years, after which she furthered her studies at the European University of Barcelona, where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management. After some time living in Malaga and later the United Kingdom, she chose to return to Denmark in 2008 to work and later took her Masters in Marketing Communication Management at Copenhagen Business School.
Mette currently works as Project Manager in the trading industry for ESS-FOOD, a daughter company of one of Europe's largest meat companies, The Danish Crown Group, where she is also the Group Procurement Business Partner. She started working in ESS-FOOD in 2019 after six years in the brewing industry.
"It was a natural transition for me to work for Danish Crown since my entire family at some point has worked for the company. It was also the meat industry that brought me and my family to Spain in 1998. So I could say the meat industry has been a part of my DNA since I wore diapers!".
While a student at ASB, Mette was active in the Arts, fondly recalling the famous ASB mosaic wall she and her class created that today stands at the school's main entrance. "It was a huge privilege to be a part of that." She also recalls the increase of international students during her second year, where we started the Omniscient Eye school paper and also fought to finally bring color photographs to the yearbook of 2001-2002. She was also hugely involved with sports playing on the ASB basketball team while playing handball outside the school at a high level.
When asked for a favorite memory from school, she quickly responds, "A spoon with peanut butter to start English class." :)
Mette attributes the teachers at ASB and their dedication to creating young independent individuals to her success at school and in later life. Here she recalls the teachers who inspired her the most:
Mr. Brasher
"He taught me to be involved in historical events and the political landscape (either US or European). I still think about his classes every time I discuss politics or history with my family and friends. He was also my basketball coach and a good one."
Mr. Maas
"He inspired me to be involved in global events through my participation in MUN for two consecutive years."
Mr. Volchok
"He taught me about authority and to respect it, especially after 9/11, when the school was shut down and had security put in place. Mr. V was the first to give me detention because I chose to go off campus during that time."
Mr. Smith
"I still have his words imprinted on my soul; 'Mette, please promise me that you will not choose a mathematical route after high school, go with the Artsl' Those words were the reason I chose the field I entered for my career path.
Ms. Bronwyn Evans
"She taught me to be creative and to think out of the box."
Ms. Lynda Johnson
"She taught me to be patient (especially when given a mathematical challenge)."
"And probably the most important…" - Ms. Mac
"She taught me to have a voice. Through my poetry, my essays, and other various platforms. She encouraged me to submit my work to poetry competitions, and I had three of my poems published in the United States. She was a huge part of my high school years at ASB. I was so sad when I heard she had passed."
Mette also shares that in 2001 her parents moved to Nebraska for six months, giving her a choice to join them or stay in Barcelona and attend ASB as an eleventh grader. She chose the latter.
"I don't think I ever had the chance to thank all the teachers for looking out for me. They were massive supporters."
