Dra. María José Barrera
About me
Medical Doctor graduated from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC-CUNORI), with additional training in public health, disaster risk management, and human rights. Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Scientific Research at the Graduate School of Engineering, USAC. Her main interest is child health, with plans to specialize in Pediatrics. PALS (AHA) certified, with research experience on pediatric self-medication practices.
Ninel María José Barrera Arriaza is a Medical Doctor who graduated in June 2026 from Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, CUNORI campus (Chiquimula). She is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Scientific Research at the Graduate School of Postgraduate Studies, Faculty of Engineering, USAC, strengthening her training in research methodology and data analysis applied to health.
Her undergraduate thesis, on traditional and conventional ambulatory self-medication in pediatrics, reflects her core interest: child health, approached both from clinical practice and from public health and social sciences. She is currently preparing to apply for a Pediatrics residency at Hospital Roosevelt, aiming to deepen her work in comprehensive childcare.
She holds PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) certification from the American Heart Association, along with additional training in human rights and responsible journalism (Human Rights Ombudsman's Office), mental health and psychosocial support in emergencies (IOM/UN Migration), children's rights (Universidad Regional de Guatemala), leadership and governance (ASTRA – Konrad Adenauer Foundation), disaster risk reduction management (CONRED), and team leadership tools (USAC).
Her career combines clinical practice with a genuine interest in scientific research, public health, and the social impact of medicine on vulnerable populations, particularly Guatemalan children.
