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?

"Inspiring."



#Lynx4Life #ASBtogether

Contributed: February 2021