The Illinois College of Optometry Student Blog

I grew up in a small town outside of Pittsburgh called South Park (No, it is nothing like the TV show). I’ve lived in the area my whole life, and am a die-hard sports fan. My mother is an Italian immigrant; this had a direct impact on my love of international soccer. Forza Azzurri! I did my undergrad at the University of Pittsburgh where I majored in Spanish with a related-area certificate in Portuguese. However, do not be fooled; my goal was always to be an optometrist.

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I’ve had to wear glasses since preschool, so I knew from very early on how important vision is to the human experience. I’ve been fortunate enough to do work combining my loves of optometry and speaking foreign languages, including a medical brigade to Honduras. I wish to continue doing such work once I become an OD. I am very grateful for the opportunity to study at ICO- to not only dive into a profession I’m passionate about, but also to live in the amazing city of Chicago.

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I enjoy writing (duh), reading, binge watching shows like The Walking Dead and House of Cards, and playing video games (the Bioshock and Fallout franchises are my favorites). Music is also a huge part of who I am. I have been playing guitar for close to 10 years. I go to many concerts and have branched out considerably with the genres I listen to, but head banging will always be in my blood.

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Over the next four years, I will offer what tips, insights, and observations I can. I hope my blogging will be fun for you to read!