She is a graduate of the National University of Cajamarca, Peru where she received her bachelor’s degree in nursing, and also from the National University Federico Villarreal, where she obtained her masters in nursing. Upon relocating to the United States, her passion for nursing continued and she attended the Beth Israel Nursing School Program for International Nurses where she was awarded a certification in conjunction with the University of the State of New York Education Department. Before joining the Diabetes Institute, she had a diverse background which included critical care, neonatal nursing and pediatrics. She believes in patient-centered care and educates patients of all ages how to manage their diabetes diagnosis. Maria is a member of the American Association of Diabetes Educators and the American Diabetes Association.