How I plan on making a positive impact through opticianry. Moving to a new country at the age of 15 was a pivotal moment in my life. Born and raised in Brazil, I found myself navigating the complexities of a new culture and language when my family relocated to the United States. Despite these challenges, this experience fostered resilience, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives. As I have been working as a Optometric Technician for the past five years, I have seen how hard it is for someone that doesn’t speak the language to go through a simple eye exam and most importantly not able to communicate with an optician. Now, as I pursue a career in opticianry, I am eager to leverage these qualities to make a meaningful and positive impact on my community. Opticianry is not merely about fitting glasses and lenses; it is about enhancing lives through improved vision. My journey has shown me the profound difference that clear vision can make. I recall the struggle my mother faced with her vision back in Brazil, where access to quality eye care was limited. Her difficulties ignited my passion for eye care, inspiring me to pursue a profession where I can directly contribute to improving people’s quality of life. Being bilingual in Portuguese, Spanish and English places me in a unique position to serve and connect with a broader community. Language barriers often prevent individuals from seeking necessary medical care, including eye care. By providing services in Portuguese, Spanish and English, I can ensure that the Portuguese/ Spanish-speaking population feels understood and comfortable, fostering a trusting environment. This inclusivity can lead to better health outcomes and a stronger sense of community. Moreover, my background instills in me a drive to address disparities in eye care access. In both Brazil and the United States, socioeconomic barriers can impede individuals from receiving necessary eye care. I plan to collaborate with local organizations to offer free or low-cost eye exams and glasses to underserved populations. By organizing community outreach programs, I can educate people about the importance of eye health and early detection of vision problems. Education and advocacy are also crucial aspects of my vision for making a positive impact. I aim to educate my patients about proper eye care and preventive measures to avoid long-term vision issues. Additionally, I intend to advocate for policies that promote better access to eye care services, regardless of their background or economic statues, can achieve optimal eye health. In conclusion, my journey from Brazil to the United States has shaped my aspirations and commitment to making a difference through opticianry. By leveraging my bilingual skills, addressing disparities in access, and emphasizing education and advocacy, I am dedicated to enhancing the lives of those I serve. Winning this scholarship will not only support my educational pursuits but also enable me to transform my vision of inclusive, accessible eye care into reality. Thank you James Michael Morris family for considering my application.