A Passion for Parents, Pediatrics, and Patients

Optometry wasn’t always the obvious path for me—but it was always close to home. Both of my parents are optometrists, and while I didn’t fully understand their profession growing up, I was drawn to the life they built. I saw how they were able to care deeply for their patients while still being fully engaged with our family. That balance left a lasting impression.

In college, I explored other career paths, but I kept coming back to optometry. Eventually, I joined the family practice, and today I have the privilege of working alongside my parents.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is caring for children. Pediatric eye care has become a true passion—not just because it’s fun and dynamic, but because it’s so important. Regular eye exams are essential for kids, especially before they start school. Vision problems can significantly impact a child’s ability to learn and thrive. A comprehensive eye exam helps us determine whether learning challenges are vision-related or stem from other causes. It’s not just about seeing clearly—it’s about seeing comfortably. As homework gets longer and the print gets smaller, we want to make sure vision isn’t what’s holding them back.

What makes pediatric exams unique is that kids often can’t tell you when something’s wrong. They might not say things are blurry—they might just seem like slow readers or learners. That’s why these exams require creativity and a more objective approach. I enjoy that variability. It’s not just about asking, “Is it better with lens one or two?” It’s about making the experience fun and engaging. I don’t have to be super serious—I can be a little goofy, and that helps build trust with the kids.

Outside the clinic, I’ve worked with nonprofits to bring eye care to children in underserved communities. That work is incredibly fulfilling. Watching a child put on glasses for the first time and see the world clearly—that’s priceless.

I’ve also been fortunate to have support from organizations like VSP. They’ve been a tremendous help, especially with the parts of running a practice that aren’t covered in optometry school—things like billing, website design, and general business operations. Being able to reach out to VSP for guidance has made a big difference.

Looking back, my journey in optometry has been deeply fulfilling. I’m proud of the work I do with children and in nonprofit settings. But more than anything, I hope to leave a legacy of putting patients first. I want to be remembered as someone who prioritized individualized care, fostered a positive culture, and made every patient feel valued. As an optometrist—and as a person—I think that’s a legacy worth striving for.