Pinecrest Native Dr. Iza: MD, Surgeon, Entrepreneur

Pinecrest native Dr. Katrina Pardo Iza, a 2016 graduate, achieved several significant milestones this year. She graduated from medical school in April and began a General Surgery residency in July. Also in July, she launched Katrina Jewelry Co. with her husband.

Dr. Iza's path demonstrates the opportunities offered by a local education. The Biomedical Sciences program ignited her interest in health sciences. She also developed the confidence for entrepreneurship while pursuing a demanding medical career.

Her grandfather inspired her to become a physician and surgeon. Mrs. Laura Keepax, a teacher at Gulliver, significantly influenced Dr. Iza's passion for health sciences through the biomedical program. Dr. Iza said observing peers become business owners and influential figures in the Miami community empowered her to pursue entrepreneurship.

Many teachers made lasting impacts on Dr. Iza, including Mr. G (ceramics), Mrs. Artzt (English), Mrs. Longshore (math), Mr. Cardinale (Portuguese), Mrs. Avalos (chemistry), Mr. Nieveen (biology), Mrs. Keepax (biomed program), and Miss Key, now Mrs. Szpak (marine science & dolphin research studies fellowship). She also spent considerable time with Coach Yary Roman and Mrs. Dory Guerra as co-president of the GOALS club.

During her time at Gulliver Prep, Dr. Iza was heavily involved in Varsity Girls' Soccer, the GOALS club, and Dolphin Field Studies Research. She recalled playing Mrs. Avalos in the Senior Skit and taking a selfie with the entire student body as a favorite memory. Graduating medical school and earning her MD stands as one of her proudest moments.

Dr. Iza advises current students to explore every interesting opportunity available, noting it may influence their lives later. She encourages them to enjoy every second, as their 10-year reunion will arrive quickly.

She remains connected to Gulliver, having served as an assistant soccer coach during her college years. She will assist in planning her class's 10-year reunion this year.