Today, in our alumni spotlight, we’d like to introduce Dr. Marcela Ibañez Correa, KCP Class of 1988. Marcela is a doctor and surgeon, specialized in pediatric strabismus. She holds degrees from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Instituto Barraquer de América, with fellowships from the same institution, Fondation Ophtalmologique Adolph de Rothschild, and Universidad del Valle. Marcela is fluent in English, and French, and speaks Italian. She currently serves as the Chief of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Strabismus, and Refractive Surgery at Miroó Centro Ocular Pediátrico. Our Tigers continue to excel in their fields, bringing pride to our community. Once A Tiger, Always A Tiger!
We had the opportunity to interview Dr. Marcela Ibañez about her career and her time at KCP. Read the full interview:
- How has your KCP experience impacted your life and the choices you have made in your career? KCP has been crucial to me in many aspects! From a professional standpoint, it provided me with the tools to recognize that this was my path. In the biology and chemistry labs, we studied anatomy, and during career days, we experienced firsthand what a typical day in a specific career was like. Being bilingual has made my life much easier. At that time, most medical textbooks and articles were in English. When I went to France for my Fellowship (supra-specialization), it greatly aided me in learning a new language, not only biologically, but also in French, which, although different from Spanish, shares similarities with English. Moreover, during my practice, being bilingual has proven very helpful, as I often encounter patients who only speak English. It has also facilitated my studies and attendance at international meetings. Given that one of my Fellowships is in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, I frequently see children who either attend KCP or have parents who studied there. This connection has always opened doors for me, as the saying goes, “Once a Tiger … Always a Tiger.” In my personal life, words are not enough to express. I was fortunate to have the best classmates anyone could wish for, and we still see each other regularly, maintaining a strong bond. Additionally, the sense of security, self-esteem, and ethics instilled in me during my time at school have guided my journey through life and contributed to the happiness I experience today.
- What advice would you give to KCP students, especially those who aspire to pursue a career path similar to yours in the field of Medicine? Learn as much as you can, especially studying techniques, as you will need them. Not only should you grasp the basics of medicine, but also immerse yourself in social studies: history, geography, literature, art, and general culture. You’ll find them invaluable, as you’ll be studying among the best of the best, and having diverse conversation topics will be essential when interacting with patients. Be a friend to your friends; treat everyone with kindness. Someday, you may need them, and they may need you. The impression you leave at school will always accompany you. Enjoy your time in school, create cherished memories, seize every moment, and gather countless positive experiences. If you encounter challenges, learn from them; they’re there to guide you toward becoming a better person.
- What are some of your fondest memories or experiences from your time at KCP? All of our get-togethers on weekends, having a rock group in the class was priceless, we enjoyed singing around Ernesto’s guitar and going to Onix concerts. Study groups were always fun, we learned and had a good time at the same time.
- What makes you proud to be a part of the KCP Family? Everything. Being part of the KCP Family has opened many doors for me, as it has for all the alumni. Witnessing the success of so many Tigers who have ventured far makes me proud to be part of this community. In general, we Tigers are individuals who stand up for what we believe in and what we desire. Many of us have started our businesses, regardless of their scale; numerous have become successful entrepreneurs, excelling in their passions.
