The path to a fulfilling career is often marked by a series of transformative experiences and encounters that shape one’s professional and personal identity. My path to an optometric career is a testament to the power of perseverance, the significance of meaningful connections, and the impact of compassionate care. This adventure began with a significant leap of faith: moving from my familiar surroundings in Orange County, CA, to the historical and academic vibrancy of Boston, MA. It was at NECO when my professional dreams started to materialize. NECO wasn’t just an institution for academic growth; it was a vessel for lifelong friendships to form in the fires of rigorous study and built on mutual support.

 

Clinical Experiences That Shaped My Practice

Along with these supportive friendships, the clinical rotations at NECO were pivotal in shaping my approach to optometry. From specialty contact lens fittings in Houston to the demanding environment of Manchester VA Hospital, each rotation enriched my understanding and passion. However, it was a Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH) trip to the Dominican Republic that profoundly impacted me. There, I encountered a woman known as La Ciega (“the blind woman”), who lived with significant vision loss and had little hope of ever seeing again. The moment I fitted her for trial frames and she saw her son clearly for the first time in years, her nickname was no longer relevant. This experience reminded me of the profound difference optometric care can make in an individual’s life and remains a cornerstone of my passion for optometry.

Building a Career on Foundations of Care

After graduating in 2011, I ventured into corporate optometry, a chapter that gave me confidence and flexibility. However, my aspiration for a broader scope of practice led me to an associate position in a private practice in Glendale, AZ. Here, I delved deeper into specialized areas like scleral lenses, orthokeratology, and disease management. These many areas enriched my expertise and approach to patient care.

However, it was a house fire in October 2020 that forced me out of complacency and steered my career towards a more fulfilling trajectory. With the support of my husband and family, we took a bold step by purchasing a private practice in Anthem, AZ. This move was not just a business decision; it was a chance to recommit to serving my community and provide care to those most in need, especially elderly individuals living in rural nursing homes across Arizona.

A Vision for the Future

Today, as a proud private practice owner and an active member of the Arizona Optometric Association, my optometric path is still driven by the desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. My experiences—from NECO to the Dominican Republic, from corporate settings to private practice—have imbued me with a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to excellence in eye care.

My optometric career is marked by challenges, learning, and unforgettable encounters that underscore the essence of eye care: a profession that goes beyond vision correction to touch lives, inspire hope, and foster community well-being.