By Ethan Luu
Southern California College of Optometry Class of 2029
Student Ambassador
ethanluu.scco29@ketchum.edu
Diving into the world of optometry as an undergrad student can be daunting, and for me, it was. I was overwhelmed by everything I didn’t know: what was the OAT? Which prerequisites did I need? And most importantly, which schools did I want to apply to and eventually which one did I want to attend? The number of answers I needed to find was intimidating, to say the least.
My first step was reaching out to various optometry schools just to ask general questions about prerequisites. Most schools gave me generic responses, but SCCO was different. Their admissions team went out of their way to work with me and even helped me understand how the classes I had already taken could meet their requirements. That was my first glimpse into the kind of community SCCO fosters, and it made me want to learn more.
Next, I attended the Optometry Admissions Workshop hosted by the SCCO admissions staff and MBKU Student Ambassadors. As somewhat of an introvert, I was nervous. I didn’t know anyone attending, and walking into a room full of strangers was not something I was excited about. But I knew this workshop could give me valuable insight into where I stood as an applicant, so I went.
The moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted with warm smiles from Eryn, Tom, and several Student Ambassadors. Even though the nerves were still there, their friendliness helped me feel more at ease. Throughout the workshop, I had meaningful conversations with both students and faculty. They offered genuine advice and encouragement that made me feel not only welcomed but also supported, even before I had applied.
Looking back on the Workshop, one thing really stood out to me. The admissions team, faculty, and Student Ambassadors had put in the effort to host a detailed, engaging event for students who might not even end up applying to SCCO. That spoke volumes. It showed me that the SCCO community is made up of people who go above and beyond to help others simply because that is the kind of place it is. That spirit of generosity and support was something I wanted to be part of.
I chose SCCO because I knew I would be joining a community that truly cares. A community where my success is not something I have to chase alone. It is something my peers, professors, and mentors are all working toward with me. It is a place where support, collaboration, and growth are not just words, but lived values.
I am proud to be part of the SCCO community, one that welcomed me from day one and continues to remind me that I belong here.
If you are considering optometry and have questions about SCCO or my journey, feel free to reach out. I would be happy to share more about why this school felt like the right home for me. You can contact me at ethanluu.scco29@ketchum.edu.
