Mary Andrea Gonzalez-Bayo, born and raised in Venezuela, embarked on an inspiring journey to the United States as an international student in pursuit of a brighter future amidst the challenges in her home country. Determined to overcome barriers, she spent nine months in Boston living with an American family, where she immersed herself in learning English—starting with just one word, “water.”

From a young age, Mary Andrea dreamed of a career in healthcare. Her passion stems from her personal experience of being born with a congenital condition, proximal femoral focal deficiency, which led her to spend much of her childhood in hospitals and undergo over fifteen surgeries. These experiences not only shaped her resilience but also ignited her desire to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives.

Mary Andrea earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health Services Administration with honors from Florida International University (FIU). Her journey into healthcare began with an internship at an orthopedic urgent care center during her final semester, where her dedication and talent earned her a permanent position. Starting in front office operations, she quickly advanced to the billing and collections department, where she managed the rehabilitation center’s billing processes and successfully resolved outstanding balances.

Despite living far from her family, Mary Andrea remains deeply connected to her Venezuelan roots. Her determination to achieve her professional goals while holding her home country close to her heart is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.