“My interest in medicine and passion for caring for others is how I found optometry. I was surrounded by many individuals who influenced my decision to pursue the profession, including my mother, who was an ophthalmic technician, Dr. Jeff Cohn, Dr. Rebecca McLaughlin, and Dr. Asha Sherring. During college, I worked as an optometric technician for Lickteig Family Eyecare, where I solidified my decision to become an optometrist. After graduating from Binghamton University – SUNY in 2020, I began my journey at NECO. NECO has provided me with a diverse clinical experience and the opportunity to be a leader in the community. Currently, I am the class president for the Class of 2024, an anatomy lab teaching assistant, and I co-founded the Ocular Disease Club. With my leadership skills, I plan to advocate for our profession and increase public education on the importance of ocular health. In the future, I plan to complete an ocular disease or a cornea & contact lens residency. I am keeping my options open, but I have a strong interest in working in an OD/MD or private practice setting. Lastly, I would like to thank my family, friends, and mentors for always supporting me.”

– Josh Normandeau

You make us #NECOProud Josh!