MCO Ambassadors for Admissions

Third Year Students

Bethany Posey

I've wanted to be in healthcare for most of my life, but I just didn't know what I wanted to go into. I started to really become interested in optometry while attending Adrian College for my undergraduate studies, where I majored in Biology. During breaks from school, I started working at a private optometry practice in my hometown where my love for optometry really grew! Being able to interact with patients and gain experience allowed me to really hone in on my passion for optometry. MCO has provided me and continues to provide me with amazing learning opportunities for my future as an optometrist, as well as, providing a welcoming environment that everyone can thrive in!  Bethany Posey [email protected] 

Brooke Bradley

I grew up in Haslett, Michigan, and completed my bachelor’s degree in Vision Science at Ferris State University. In high school, I shadowed an optometrist and became extremely interested in the field. When visiting Ferris for the first time, MCO had an open house and offered tours. This tour greatly impacted my choice not only to pursue optometry but also solidified that MCO was where I wanted to study. I have worked at a local optometrist for 3 summers and was able to be a technician for the doctors to gain more experience in the field. I have loved being a student at MCO and especially appreciate the small class sizes that create a great sense of community. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about MCO or Ferris in general!  Brooke Bradley [email protected]  

gabrielle nelson

I am from Muskegon, MI, about an hour and a half away from Big Rapids. I attended Ferris State University for my undergraduate studies where I majored in Biology/Pre-Optometry and completed my coursework in 2 and a half years. During undergrad, as well as my first year at MCO, I worked at the front desk and as a student optician at the University Eye Center, downstairs at MCO. I have been interested in optometry since a young age, and my shadowing experience as well as position at the UEC solidified my career path. I have been incredibly happy with my experience at MCO over the last year and a half as the professors are incredibly knowledgeable and truly want you to learn and succeed. Please reach out to me if you have any questions about the program or life in Big Rapids.  Gabrielle Nelson-MCO Class of 2027:  [email protected]  

jessica sheldon

Hello! My name is Jess, and I am a Canadian student from North Bay, Ontario. I did my undergraduate studies at Nipissing University, where I received my bachelor's degree in biology with a chemistry minor. As well as being a student ambassador, I am also one of the class representatives for the Class of 2027 and I am involved the Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (SVOSH) as well as the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA). I have known I wanted to pursue a career in optometry for as long as I can remember as I was always interested in science growing up, and once I started considering my career options in high school, I knew optometry was right for me. I chose MCO because of the small class sizes that allow you to develop a tight-knit community with your classmates and the faculty, as well as all of the opportunities to get involved. If you have any questions, I would be happy to help so please feel free to reach out!  Jessica Sheldon [email protected] 

Lucas mccrath

Hello, I was born and raised in Middleville, Michigan.  I attended Ferris State University for my undergraduate studies where I received a BS in Vision Science through the 3+4 program offered by MCO.  I worked at a private optometry practice near my hometown as a technician and scribe before my first year at MCO.  I also gained more experience working at an ophthalmology clinic as a technician and scribe between my first and second year of optometry school.  MCO’s small class size and student-to-faculty ratio played a major factor when looking at schools.  I have formed many connections with my classmates and professors because of it.  One thing I love at MCO is that the professors and students want to see you succeed and will take the time to help if you ask.  My experience this past year has shown me that choosing MCO was one of the best decisions I have ever made.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at [email protected] 

patrick polistena

I grew up in Fort McMurray, Alberta, before heading to London, Ontario, to attend Western University. I graduated with a degree in Biology while doing related internships between my 3rd and 4th years. Despite only living in Canada prior to Optometry school, I am beyond happy with my choice to come to MCO. From my initial interview date to now, I have had nothing but positive experiences both in and out of the classroom. The small class size has allowed me to get to know all my peers and the faculty members. I am the current President-Elect for the Vision Rehabilitation Club and enjoy being involved in the other clubs offered here at MCO. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out at [email protected] 

ryan sanderson

I am from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where I grew up in a relatively small town. I wanted to explore a larger environment and attended Michigan State University where I completed my bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. When I knew that I wanted to go to Optometry school, it was clear that a smaller town environment would be a better fit for me. Big Rapids and MCO fit that bill perfectly and after touring the school I knew I didn’t want to be anywhere else. All aspects of MCO, specifically the connection with professors and small class size, have only confirmed that my choice to be here was right. Ryan Sanderson [email protected] 

taylor phelps

My name is Taylor Phelps; I am a second year here at the Michigan College of Optometry. I am originally from Minnesota, so I am a very nice person because it’s in my “Minnesota Nice” blood. Minnesota also allows me to be around lakes all day long, so I enjoy being out on the water, water-skiing, wakeboarding, etc. I have been in Michigan for 3 years now since I went to Ferris State University for undergrad. I have been interested in Optometry since I was little because I was present in my optometrist's office often with needing glasses very young. It is a beautiful profession and I so far love “focusing” on treating and learning how to become an amazing Optometrist! [email protected] 

wyatt waterbury

My name is Wyatt and I am a member of the Class of 2027. I finished my undergraduate studies at Ferris State University where I completed my Bachelor of Science degree. Growing up with a father who is an optometrist, I was exposed to the eye care world all my life. After working as a technician during undergrad, I developed a passion, knowing this was something I wanted to do as well. The moment I stepped onto MCO’s campus, I saw myself fitting in here and am happy with my decision. I love how student-focused MCO is with small class sizes, easy communication with professors, and faculty who want to see all students succeed. If you have any questions, you can always reach out to my email!  [email protected] 

Second Year Students

Abigail peterson

I did my undergraduate studies at Grand Valley State University, where I majored in Biomedical Sciences. I became interested in optometry early due to being nearsighted and needing glasses early on. I was late to getting my first pair of glasses, but when I began regularly wearing my prescription at the beginning of high school, I saw immediate improvement in both my grades and in my sports. This led to a passionate desire to become an optometrist myself to advocate for early eye exams with children. Since moving to Big Rapids, I have enjoyed getting involved in the community and teach dance at a small studio in Reed City. I am also involved in SVOSH and the private practice club through MCO. I am married and a proud mom dog. I love MCO because they really strive to make all their students successful. I personally love all the professors and feel I can ask any of them for help and receive great support. I enjoy the small-town energy and the small class size which makes school feel intimate and personalized for my own well-being. [email protected]

Alan Ritter

I am a Michigan native and have lived in Charlevoix for the last ten years. I attended Ferris State University for my undergraduate studies, where I received a BS in Biology, and a minor in French Language. While I have never needed corrective lenses or have any ocular diagnoses, I have been around optometry my whole life as my mother is an optometrist (and an MCO graduate!). In undergrad, I worked as a tech and scribe at an OD/MD practice where I learned just how wonderful the profession of optometry is. I have greatly enjoyed my time at MCO and could not recommend it enough for prospective students. Small class sizes allow you plenty of opportunity for one-on-one time with your professors and provide a feeling of community which is difficult to find elsewhere. If you have any questions, I encourage you to contact me via email.  [email protected]

Alexis Huizenga

I grew up in Allendale, Michigan, a city located just outside Grand Rapids. For my undergraduate studies, I went to Ferris State University, where I majored in Vision Science. I was enrolled in the 3+4 program at the Michigan College of Optometry, so I ended up graduating with my bachelor's degree after completing my first year of optometry school. I became interested in optometry when my brother, who had a stroke in utero, was involved in vision therapy at our local optometrist's office. The difference that the optometrist made in my brother's vision, and with that his life, sparked my interest in the field of optometry! Picking MCO was easy for me; with the proximity to home and the low student-faculty ratio, I just knew this was the place for me. I’ve been living in Big Rapids for over four years now, so please feel free to reach out about anything you're unsure about.  [email protected]

Ben Rosendale

Hello, my name is Ben and I was born and raised in Saint Johns, Michigan. I attended Ferris State University for my undergraduate studies, graduating with a Bachelors in Vision Science degree. While in high school I worked for an optometrist that helped me realize this was what I wanted to do in the future. Coming from a small town originally, I could not say enough wonderful things about my choice to attend MCO and live in Big Rapids. Ever since I did my first tour of MCO I knew that this was the school for me. The small town and smaller class size makes it quite easy to make friends and speak with faculty members whenever you need to. Currently, I am the President-Elect of the Vision Rehabilitation Club (VRC) and am involved in many other clubs here at MCO. If you have any questions for me, please feel free to reach out at [email protected]

Bijan Anvari

I completed my undergraduate degree at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, where I majored in Life Sciences. As someone with a passion for Astronomy and Visual Arts, I've held the faculty of vision at such a high importance throughout my adolescence and adulthood, and my goal of becoming an optometrist is to help ensure that the gift of sight is safeguarded or restored to as much of the population as possible. Alongside making sure I learn as much as I can about the field of optometry, I also placed a high importance in serving our local communities and forming lasting connections with our friends and colleagues wherever I go. It is for those specific reasons that I felt that MCO was the best fit for me. Throughout the thoughtfully-structured curriculum, you get to know everyone easily thanks to the small class size and wonderful faculty, and the opportunities and encouragement for service are abundant. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions!  [email protected]

Billy Thompson

I started my journey to optometry in the 3+4 program at Gannon university where I did my undergraduate. At MCO I am involved with most clubs, but I am the class representative for the class of 2028, and I am the treasurer for the MOSA club. I became interested in optometry back in middle school when I first got glasses for myopia and later astigmatism. During my undergrad I shadowed a local optometrist and got a feel for what private practice looks like. After all that I applied to the Michigan College of Optometry and have found the MCO is the best place for me and the goals I want to achieve. Can’t wait to meet you all!  [email protected]

Brooke Thomas

Hello! My name is Brooke, and I am a second-year optometry student from Fenton, MI. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Biomolecular Sciences from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Since starting at MCO, I’ve had the opportunity to get involved in several student organizations, including Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (SVOSH), the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), the Michigan Optometric Student Private Practice Association (MOSPPA), and the Michigan Optometric Student Association (MOSA). I also serve as a Class Representative for the Class of 2028 and as the Community Service Chair for the Optometric Public Health Student Association (OPHSA). What I love most about MCO is the close-knit community and the strong relationships between students and faculty. The small class sizes create a collaborative learning environment, and the professors are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely enthusiastic about engaging with students. This support has made a meaningful impact on my graduate experience. The town of Big Rapids and the MCO community have provided a nurturing environment where I’ve felt comfortable learning, growing, and building lasting connections. I’m truly grateful to have chosen MCO for my optometric education. If you have any questions at all, feel free to reach out—I'd love to help! [email protected].

Burak Hurmuzlu

Hi! My name is Burak Hurmuzlu, and I'm from Windsor, Ontario. I did my undergraduate studies in Neuroscience at the University of Windsor. I've always had a strong passion for optometry, and shadowing a few local optometrists only deepened my interest in the field. I decided to pursue the 3+4 program offered by MCO, and once I learned more about the university and what it had to offer like the small class sizes and the strong sense of community it created with faculty and peers I knew it was the school I wanted to attend! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]

Crystal Gharib

Hi! My name is Crystal and I am a Canadian student from Windsor, Ontario. I received my Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Windsor in 2024. I have always had a passion for the sciences and knew that I wanted to work in healthcare. Shadowing a former MCO graduate, who had such a joy for his craft, really solidified my decision to pursue a career in optometry! There, I was exposed to a wide variety of cases that showed me just how vast this field is! When applying for optometry schools, I really wanted to find a place that felt like home. As I knew that I would be moving away, I wanted to ensure that wherever I went to school, I would have a community. My first time touring MCO, I immediately felt welcomed, and the smaller class sizes that MCO offers truly make this school feel like a family. If you have any questions about the program or being an international student, please don’t hesitate to reach out! [email protected]

Elizabeth Wintek

I attended Valparaiso University for my undergraduate studies where I majored in chemistry. At MCO I serve on the board for AOSA and am also involved in SVOSH and FCO. My fascination with eyes began at a young age, as I started wearing glasses at 7 years old and found myself looking forward to my visits to the optometrist’s office every year. I shadowed a practice after I graduated high school and fell in love with every aspect of the profession. I’m so thankful and blessed to be here at MCO, and I truly believe that the educational experience that this school provides is one that will enable me to put my best foot forward as an eye care provider. Liz Wintek (Tancos): [email protected]

Emily Gilbert

Hello! My name is Emily, and I am a member of the Class of 2028. I was born and raised in Grand Blanc, Michigan, and I did my undergraduate studies at Ferris State University. I decided I wanted to do optometry during my junior year of high school, and my love for the field has only grown since then. Here at MCO, I serve as the President-Elect of the Michigan Optometric Student Private Practice Association (MOSPPA), so I help plan a lot of fun events like our Great Lake Private Practice Conference in Grand Rapids and our Corn(ea)hole Tournament! MCO continuously offers me opportunities to expand my impact on the field as well as learning opportunities to grow my knowledge and skills. I also love the small class sizes and relationships that we build with our classmates and faculty along the way. I couldn't image myself anywhere else! If you have any questions, I would love to provide some input, so please feel free to reach out! [email protected].

Emma Muron

Hi! My name is Emma, and I completed my undergraduate studies at Saginaw Valley State University where I received my bachelor's degree in biology with a minor in business. I became interested in optometry when I was a sophomore in high school and had to get my first pair of glasses. Later in college, I began to work at my local optometrist's office as a patient care coordinator/technician. Choosing to come to MCO to further my education has been one of the best decisions of my life. Everyone here is so down to earth, knowledgeable, and overall, just wants to see you succeed! If you have any questions at all, please feel free to reach out to me anytime. My email is: [email protected]

Hunter Bentley

I grew up in Bear Lake, Michigan, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and running. I completed my undergraduate studies here at Ferris State University, where I obtained my B.S. In Vision Science via the 3+4 program. I always had an inkling that I wanted to work in a medical field, but I didn't decide on optometry until after shadowing several different modes of practice. I decided that MCO would be the best fit for me due to its proximity to home and its small student-to-faculty ratio. If you have any questions about the program, Big Rapids, or even running, please feel free to email me at [email protected]

Isaac Kashin

Hello! My name is Isaac, and I’m a Canadian student from Winnipeg, Manitoba. I completed my undergraduate studies in Neuroscience at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. While I’ve always been interested in healthcare, it wasn’t until I began shadowing optometrists and working as an optometric technician that I truly recognized the unique appeal of a career in optometry. It allows me to combine meaningful patient care with a lifestyle that supports both my professional ambitions and personal goals. I value MCO’s small class sizes and the close-knit community they create, as well as the transparency and support between students and faculty. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the program or the experience of entering as an international student! [email protected]

Jaekob Sallee

I attended Hillsdale College for my undergraduate degree where I played baseball and majored in biology and exercise science. My interest in optometry began after I received my first pair of glasses and could finally see the world with sharp vision, which was a feeling and memory I will never forget. My passion was strengthened when I got contact lenses for the first time and did not have to deal with the bulkiness of glasses under my baseball helmet, football helmet, or the risk of them falling off during basketball games and practices. In high school, my Mom mentioned optometry as a career choice and that was my plan since. I pursued optometry because I had such good experiences with my optometrists and the optical world. Fast forward to now, my interest in optometry gets deepened every day with the course load and information. MCO has been such a great experience and offers a wonderful faculty to student ratio. At MCO, help from the faculty is easily accessible and they do an amazing job of comprehensively educating you and getting you prepared for your future career and boards.  [email protected]

Julia Baldus

My name is Julia, and I am a member of the class of 2028. I grew up on a farm outside the small town of Grand Meadow, Minnesota. I did my undergraduate studies at Gustavus Adolphus College, where I majored in Biology. I have always appreciated small towns and tight-knit communities, especially in a classroom setting, and that is one of my favorite things about attending optometry school here at MCO! Since high school, I knew I wanted to be an optometrist. I have received exceptional eye care for my whole life and the more I learned about the profession, the more I knew this would be the right path for me. I am very happy with my decision to attend MCO to pursue this profession. I greatly appreciate the small class size, the ability to easily connect with faculty and ask questions, and the incredible facility we have to learn in. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me! Julia Baldus: [email protected] 

Levi Giroux

I grew up in the town of Ishpeming, MI and came to Big Rapids to do my undergrad here at Ferris where I was able to enter MCO through the 3+4 program. I have been able to work in an optometry clinic while on summer breaks, which has given me a lot of experience working with and helping patients. My time so far at MCO has been nothing but great with everyone from my classmates to faculty being extremely kind and helpful whenever I interact with them. While I am not involved with most clubs here at MCO I am the current president-elect of the organized student government (OSG). Please feel free to reach out to me anytime at [email protected]. 

Margaret Seaver

As a northern Michigan native, choosing MCO was a no-brainer. I completed my undergraduate studies at Ferris State University and was accepted into MCO through the Early Admissions Program. Since the beginning, I have believed that MCO is designed to give students the best and fullest education optometry has to offer. This belief has only been confirmed thanks to the supportive faculty and professional opportunities I have experienced. I am confident that MCO is preparing me well for a fulfilling and successful career in optometry.  [email protected]

Megan Nelson

Hi, I’m Megan Nelson, originally from Duluth, Minnesota. I studied Biology at North Dakota State University and then spent two years working with several optometrists around Minnesota before starting at MCO. One of the things I love most about MCO is the small class size. It makes it so much easier to connect with classmates and professors, which adds a lot to the experience. I feel very fortunate to be part of such a supportive program and community. Feel free to reach out to me: [email protected]

Morgan Eiseler

I completed my undergraduate degree in vision science at Ferris State University. I opted for the early admission program and the 3+4 program, which currently has me in my second year at MCO. From a young age, I have been fascinated by optometry, as I have undergone annual eye examinations since the age of five. Over the years, I have gained valuable experience taking summer jobs in various practices, which further reinforced my decision to pursue optometry. MCO was my preferred choice due to its small class size and low student-to-faculty ratio, which have already proven to be highly beneficial. The connections I have established with my classmates and professors have made my experience at MCO truly exceptional. As someone who has lived in the area for 4 years now, feel free to reach out with any additional questions! [email protected]

Nawaff Abdo

Hello, my name is Nawaff. I'm originally from the Metro-Detroit area where I attended Wayne State University for three years before I applied early to MCO. I could not have been more satisfied with my choice in MCO from the tight-knit community to the top-notch education we receive daily. Big Rapids was a big change of pace for me coming from a bigger city but I've gotten to understand that this really is the perfect environment you want to be in for your graduate school studies, a quiet and peaceful town. On a personal note, I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling to experience different parts of the world when I get the chance. When I'm not studying, you'll find me hanging out with friends, watching sports, or enjoying nature. It's an honor representing MCO as an ambassador so please don't hesitate to reach out to me for anything you may need.  [email protected]

Terrance Jordan

I did my undergraduate studies at Wayne State University, where I majored in biology. I am a part of some of the different clubs here, like NOSA and SVOSH. Ever since I was young, I have always had an interest with the eyes. I remember a specific time when I went to see the optometrist to get an eye exam and I was completely fascinated by the different instruments and equipment that the doctor used to check my vision and the health of my eyes. After that experience, I really considered pursuing optometry as a career. I believe that was one of the best decisions I have made because I absolutely love optometry school and everything that I am learning here at MCO! The small class size really allows you to get to know your classmates and receive personalized help from professors when needed. This is a great school and I am very happy that I chose to go here!  [email protected]