2011. The year I graduated. I know, I know, I am still a baby Optometrist. Nonetheless, it is hard to believe that I have been practicing for almost 10 years. I guess time flies when you are having fun.
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Salus Centennial Gala on behalf of MyEyeDr. Happy Birthday to The Pennsylvania College of Optometry of Salus University! Upon take off, it hit me that I had not been to Philadelphia since I graduated. Instantly, a flood of memories begun to take over. The late night studying at the library, extensive hours practicing at the clinical skills lab, and seeing patients at The Eye Institute. Oh and let’s not forget the much-needed club nights in the heart of Philly followed by late night Checkers runs.
The weekend was filled with tons of great activities from continuing education, tours of the main campus and The Eye Institute, recognition of the Presidential Medal of Honor recipients and the Gala.
Since it had been several years since I visited Salus, it was only right that I visited the campus and The Eye Institute. Can you say unbelievable? I felt like a tourist at the Elkins Park campus because everything was completely different and upgraded. The current and future students of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry are truly blessed. The technology that the students have at their fingertips is unmatched. The clinical skills lab is ahead of its time and the library will make you want to study due to the perfect tranquil design. The Eye Institute was just as exceptional with its state of the art technology, beautiful optical facility, and better patient flow. Well done, Salus University!
After the tours were completed, I headed back to the hotel to relax and message my former classmates and now colleagues the pictures of the new and improved campus. They were blown away and excited at how much our alma mater had invested in their facilities.
After coming down from the state of euphoria that the new campus and The Eye Institute created, it was time to get ready for the Salus Gala. My date for the evening was the lovely Dr. Tracey Glendenning. Upon entering the ballroom, I was blown away by the vibrant and contagious energy. Everyone was dressed like they were attending the Oscars and the music was live. The band played classics that kept the dance floor packed at all times. The food was delicious and the drinks were flowing. Throughout the evening, money was raised for scholarships, and several people were recognized from the students to the professors. Most importantly, the presidential award recipients were recognized. The highlight of the night for me was seeing my professors from Drs. Lombardi, Shoge (looked amazing in her native African Attire), Trego, Pagani, Vitek, Lewis and the Barkers. Essilor- Luxottica sponsored the after party. Three buses of students joined and the party continued!
Thank you Salus University for an amazing event and most importantly MyEyeDr. for having me represent with Dr. Tracey Glendenning. I look forward to the next major milestone.
