Maria graduated with high honors in pre-medical studies at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagữez Campus.  While in medical school at Ponce, she was involved in many volunteer activities including Reach Out and Read, Pediatric Interest Group and at a home for abandoned or abused girls.  She was selected to participate in a special program for U.S. physicians and students in Prague.  She has done medical missionary work in rural Panama.  Of course, Maria is fluent in Spanish.  She enjoys community service, movies and watching sports.