This summer, ASB alumna Marina Volchok ‘21 had an unforgettable learning experience shadowing ophthalmologists at the world-renowned Barraquer Ophthalmology Center. Dra. Elena Barraquer is part of the Barraquer family that has built the Center since 1941, and was a parent at the American School of Barcelona for eight years.

Now in her fifth year of medical school at Trinity College Dublin, Marina spent several weeks at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Center, where she observed firsthand how Dra. Barraquer and her team of specialists care for patients.

“I found the experience incredibly interesting and motivating,” she shared. “It has helped me see ophthalmology as one of the areas I may want to focus on in the future.”

Dra. Barraquer, who has been recognized in Forbes Spain’s #BestDoctorsSpain list and honored with the Excellence Award from the Spanish Queen Sofia Institute, is passionate about mentoring future doctors:

“There’s nothing I like better than helping young people discover where they truly want to go.”

Dra. Barraquer’s son, alumnus Stefano Bosio Barraquer ’09, also carries forward the family’s legacy of medicine and service. As a volunteer with the Elena Barraquer Foundation, Stefano has been part of humanitarian expeditions in Uganda, where the team performed 169 cataract surgeries. His dedication is a reminder that restoring sight is not just the work of surgeons; it’s a collective effort made possible by committed professionals and volunteers working together.

These stories highlight how the ASB community extends well beyond the classroom. Through mentorship, collaboration, and shared passions, the ties among alumni, families, and friends of the school create a network that opens doors, inspires new paths, and supports each generation of learners. The ASB connection is, in every sense, lifelong - because once a Lynx, always a Lynx!

See more photos of Dra. Elena Barraquer and her important work in the photo gallery below - registration required.