
Ask me about
Commuter during optometry school
Why did you choose MBKU?
When I first visited the MBKU campus, the faculty and students treated each other with camaraderie and respect, which ultimately was what convinced me to apply. Everyone I met during my visits was kind and welcoming, and they supported each other in many ways: academically, personally, and professionally. Additionally, it felt comforting to be remembered on separate occasions amidst the many students. As a potential student, I felt that SCCO truly strives to foster a sense of family and community.
I decided to attend SCCO primarily because of the location, since I wanted to prioritize staying close to home to be with friends and family. I highly value those who've supported me in my journey and would love to continue sharing my progress with them. Recognizing the importance of maintaining these relationships, and acknowledging mental health, would allow me to better support others as a future healthcare professional.
I also learned SCCO's interprofessional education allows their students to become well-rounded individuals by developing their knowledge beyond their scope of practice. Even though I will be specializing in vision, it is equally important to learn about the systemic function within the body and practice effective collaboration with other healthcare professionals. I want to finish optometry school with confidence in my abilities to diagnose and treat patients, which was conveyed to me during my visit with students at Ketchum Health and through my own personal optometrist.
Any advice for Prospective Students?
I would advise students to not only maintain a competitive GPA, but participate in experiences that they enjoy and can develop personal growth from. When applying for optometry school, most admissions committees take a holistic approach when reviewing your application. Therefore, while grades and test scores are important, they are not the only factors that determine a competitive applicant. They not only want to see if you can handle the rigorous curriculum expected from graduate school, but they also want students who possess a genuine passion for optometry and service. This is coming from several factors that compose your OptomCAS application: GPA, OAT, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. I strongly recommend that you network with fellow pre-optometry students and admissions officers to see how you can improve your application and what they are looking for in an applicant. This is also to your benefit since admissions will be able to recognize you based on your prior interactions. Furthermore, shadowing as many optometrists and specialties allow you to expand this network and display your motivation to learn more about the profession. To display your interest to the school, you should take the time to research their curriculum, mission, and program offerings and utilize personal experiences to showcase traits that make you a good fit based on the school's core values.
What are you involved in on campus?
SCCO Peer Advisor, Omega Delta President, NOSA Community Outreach Chair, Club Member for Lions, SVOSH, and PPC, Summer Mission Trip to Colombia
What do you like to do when you’re not studying?
Typically, when I am not studying, I enjoy watching movies and shows on Netflix or playing with my dogs to relax. During the weekdays, my downtime often includes cardio or working out at the gym, listening and singing to music, learning new recipes to cook and bake, or adjusting my skincare routine. Additionally, I like to travel and take long drives, hike different trails, visit museums, go thrift shopping, and attend various festivals/concerts beyond the normal work week.
What is a fun fact about you?
I was a model for a Halloween segment on KTLA 5 when I was 8 years old.