Interview: Kjandra-Sanoe Ibia

Where were you born and raised?

I was born on Oahu at Kapiolani Medical Center. I was a pre-mature baby!
I was raised on Kaua’i. I lived in Kapa’a, Hanamaulu, and now I reside in Lihue.

What high school did you attend and what year did you graduate?

I graduated from Kaua’i High School in 2015.

You also attended KCC and received your Medical Assisting Certificate. What made you interested in the medical field?

I was interested in the medical field when I was a Freshman in high school. I sprained my ankle in my first high school soccer game and when I went to my follow up appointments in the clinic, I was so intrigued by all the nurses and doctors and how they treated each patient. That’s when I knew I wanted to be in the medical field. I wanted to be involved in the patient’s health in hopes to make a positive impact in their lives. It’s such a privilege to be able to help people when they need it the most.

Now working for an Eye Care Provider’s office, what’s one thing you learned about the human eye that you didn’t know before?

I learned that there are so many diagnoses for the eye and I also didn’t realize how important an eye exam really is and how it can affect someone’s health.

Now for some fun questions – what’s one fun fact people don’t know about you?

My close friends and family know this about me but I LOVE Avocados! I try to limit myself to one avocado a day!

Although there are travel restrictions during this time due to COVID-19, if you could go anywhere in the world, where would you like to visit and why?

As of right now, I want to do a road trip in a RV from Nevada, Arizona, and Utah. I want to hike all the National Parks!

You enjoy being outdoors with your family and friends. What’s your ideal Sunday (day off) look like?

My ideal Sunday off would definitely be sleeping in and then if I have the motivation, I would go on a short run or go to the gym. After, my family and I would pack up the canopy and the food and go to the beach on the westside and stay there till sunset.

Name three things you love about working here at Punzal Vision.

– My AMAZING coworkers!
– The different patients I get to see, as well as some familiar faces.
– I also love the fast-paced environment.

What’s one goal you would like to set for yourself before the year of 2020 ends?

A goal I want to achieve before 2020 ends would be to do something active each day, even if it’s just walking around my neighborhood. I tend to be lazy and tired during the week, so I want to be able to change my mindset by the end of the year.

Last but not least, can you give us a favorite phrase or quote of yours that could possibly help/benefit others in life?

“Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” With everything going on this year, I feel like we all need to accept the constant changes that are happening in our lives whether it’s in our personal life or as a community. All we can do is grow and learn from them.

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