1. As a student, tell us what was your favorite part of your opticianry education; this could be a class or a particular part of optical. Contact lens fitting, slit lamp, lensometer, clinic, edging lenses, etc.

Compared to majority of my fellow classmates, my favorite part of my optical education was contact lens fitting philosophies, calculations and slit lamp evaluations. I was fascinated by the various combinations available to achieve proper fit with adequate visual acuity by changing variables such as the base curve or lens power. I would love to spend more time on the clinical side of Opticianry fitting and dispensing contact lenses once I am Licensed in CT. 

2. What inspired you to pursue Opticianry as a career?

Destiny. I was introduced to Opticianry shortly after graduating high school, but I was naive and went my own direction for a few years. The joke was on me because I drifted into Opticianry when I accepted a position as an Optician’s Assistant 16 years ago. My patients, coworkers and mentors are the ones who to inspire me to embrace my Optical journey and continue to grow personally and professionally. 

3. What would you tell students who are considering opticianry as a career and want to get formal education?

“Don’t hesitate!” Over the course of 15 years working in a retail optical establishment, I have witnessed a shortage of qualified opticians in the state of Connecticut. Our communities deserve care from skillful opticians. Formal education provides a structured pathway to become a CT Licensed Optician where other pathways fall short.