I believe that the secret to a rewarding career is to find a profession which both fulfills one's intellectual interest, and also offers the satisfaction of a clear sense of purpose. The field of optometry offers a unique blend of professional fulfillment, stability, and personal impact. For me, finding a career that balances science, interpersonal connection, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives was crucial. This made optometry the ideal choice. My motivation to becoming an optometrist stems from a desire to make a meaningful difference in people's lives by preserving and enhancing of the most essential senses: vision. Witnessing firsthand how improved vision can transform daily life has inspired me to pursue a career that combines science, patient care, and personal impact. This passion, coupled with my experiences in the field, has solidified my commitment to becoming an optometrist. Additionally, optometry’s unique balance of problem-solving and patient interaction appeals to me. I am drawn to the challenge of diagnosing vision and eye health issues while building meaningful relationships with patients. As an assistant and scribe for an optometrist, I have gained valuable firsthand experience that sets me apart from other applicants. My dual role has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of both the clinical and administrative aspects of optometry. Assisting with patient care, performing pre-testing procedures, and managing diagnostic equipment have sharpened my technical skills, while scribing detailed patient notes during exams has enhanced my knowledge of ocular conditions and treatments. This unique combination of hands-on involvement and clinical insight has given me a comprehensive foundation that prepares me to excel in optometry school and the profession. Working as an assistant and scribe to an optometrist has given me a deeper understanding of the profession and its ability to change lives. From helping patients see clearly for the first time to detecting underlying health issues during routine exams, I have witnessed how optometrists can significantly improve both physical and emotional well-being. Being part of this process has been incredibly fulfilling and has motivated me to contribute to the field in the same meaningful way. As an optometrist, my future will be unlimited. Optometry offers constant intellectual stimulation and lifelong learning opportunities. The field continues to evolve with advancements in technology, treatments, and research. Hence, I will have the chance to stay on the cutting edge of science while applying their knowledge to solve real-world problems. Ultimately, my motivation to become an optometrist is rooted in the profound impact the profession has on individuals and communities. I am inspired to follow this path to help others achieve their best vision and overall health while contributing to a field that continues to evolve and make a difference in people's lives.

I am a determined and resilient aspiring optometrist who believes that true strength lies not only in academic achievement but also in adaptability, compassion, and purpose. Inspired by a simple yet profound metaphor shared by Professor Kim Emerson—a jar filled with golf balls, pebbles, sand, and water—I see myself as the water: essential, adaptable, and reflective. While many applicants may represent the “golf balls” of academic excellence or the “pebbles” of strong experience, I embody the qualities of water—filling the spaces others cannot, flowing with perseverance through challenges, and sustaining the environment around me. Throughout my academic and personal journey, I’ve encountered obstacles that demanded flexibility, self-awareness, and unwavering dedication. These challenges have not only shaped my character but have also deepened my commitment to becoming a compassionate and effective optometrist. My passion for healthcare extends far beyond clinical ability. I am driven by a desire to restore vision, educate patients, and contribute meaningfully to community wellness. Just as water nurtures life, I aim to bring empathy, vitality, and integrity into every patient interaction. I believe vision care is not merely about correcting sight—it is about empowering individuals to fully engage with the world, to read, to work, to drive, and to connect with those they love. I am not only prepared to succeed in a rigorous optometry program—I am ready to enrich it. Like the jar in Emerson’s story, no program is truly full without the presence of water. I bring more than qualifications; I bring perspective, emotional intelligence, and a sense of purpose rooted in serving others and uplifting those around me. As a woman in science and healthcare, I also recognize the power of representation, advocacy, and mentorship. I hope to be a source of encouragement for other women—especially those from underrepresented or marginalized communities—who may question their place in this field. By sharing my journey of perseverance, growth, and self-belief, I aim to inspire other women to pursue their goals despite barriers. Through peer mentorship, community outreach, and future leadership roles, I am committed to helping women feel seen, heard, and capable. My journey is not only for myself, but for every woman who needs a reminder that strength can be fluid, leadership can be compassionate, and true success is built not in isolation—but in the difference we make for others. I want women to see that they do not have to fit into rigid molds or conform to traditional expectations in order to lead or succeed. Strength is not always loud or forceful; sometimes it is quiet resilience, steady perseverance, or the ability to adapt with grace in the face of adversity. Compassion is not a weakness—it is a powerful force that builds trust, forges meaningful connections, and uplifts communities. As I progress through my career, I hope to be a visible and active example of what it means to lead with empathy and integrity. I want to create a ripple effect—mentoring young women, advocating for equity in healthcare, and encouraging others to pursue their dreams unapologetically. Through every patient I help, every student I mentor, and every life I touch, I want to show that success is not just about personal achievement, but about leaving a legacy of support, inspiration, and positive change for those who follow