Name: Sophia Johnson 2023 Student Visionary Spotlight

Class Year: 2023

List the award(s) / scholarship(s) you have received
DR. MAX COHEN MEMORIAL AWARDfor Volunteer Commitment to Community Service DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION AWARD

What does receiving this award or scholarship mean to you?
I wanted to leave my mark on the college and these awards mean that I did just that. I’m honored to have served the underrepresented during my time at SUNY Optometry and it brings me great joy that others saw and were impacted by my commitment.

What drew you to the field of optometry?
Optometry is a people serving profession and it allowed me to tie together my interest in medicine and science with my love for others.

What are your plans following graduation?
I plan to continue my volunteer and philanthropic efforts by serving my community in NJ and abroad completing mission trips. I also plan to join an OD/MD practice where I will fit specialty lenses, manage disease such as glaucoma and help dry eye patients.

What was your most transformative experience during optometry school?
The most transformation happened when I went on my externship rotations. Concepts and exam flow started to really click. Before I knew it, I was examining, diagnosing, treating and serving patients and that’s ultimately what I came to SUNY to accomplish. While I still have much to learn, I feel that I am equipped with all of the tools I need to be succesful in this profession.

What advice would you give incoming or prospective optometry students?
I would say believe in yourself and never give up on your dream. I’d also say to do this journey with people, don’t go alone. I’ve met some very intelligent colleagues and now friends. I can say that they significantly enhanced my time at SUNY and I know they will be there long after we graduate.