By Nathan Wong
Southern California College of Optometry Class of 2028
Student Ambassador
Nathanielwong.scco28@ketchum.edu
As cliché as it sounds, the people and community at MBKU really shaped my entire first year in optometry school. From the faculty and staff to my own classmates I see on a daily basis, I have felt nothing but love and support from this place I am calling home for three more years. Coming into optometry school I was extremely nervous. Nervous for the academic rigor to come, but also nervous about meeting so many new faces. But I eventually met my group of friends, and I would not have made it through first year without them. They have been by my side through every exam, every proficiency, and every long study session in the library.
One of my favorite memories from first year was taking clinical methods lab with my friends. I know it sounds like such a boring memory to bring up. From the outside
looking in, clinical methods seems like another class where we learn the skills needed to become an optometrist. But, having my friends alongside me, it never really felt like class. It never felt like a drag to go to lab. In fact, it felt quite the opposite. We shared so many inside jokes and so many laughs (sometimes a little too much), but this is what makes my experience at MBKU so genuine and worthwhile. When classes inevitably get difficult, I remind myself not to take my optometry school years for granted. They will come and go in the blink of an eye – literally. I remind myself that lectures, exams, and proficiencies will pass, but the memories I create – and continue to create – with these amazing people will stick with me for a lifetime.
The people and community at MBKU really do set it apart. To any applicants and prospective students, you got this! The journey is a long one with a lot of hard work but keep your head up and keep showing up! Attend that club meeting you were on the fence about. Make the trip over to one of MBKU’s school events or campus tours. Just keep showing up one day at a time. As someone who is more introverted, I know it can be super intimidating putting yourself out there, but – looking back now – you just never know who you will meet. It may lead to that shadowing opportunity you were looking for, or you may just meet a lifelong friend.