Name: Gabriela Malave
Hometown: Cedar Lake, Indiana
Where did you do your undergrad education?
I completed my undergraduate education at Indiana University, Bloomington. I graduated in 2022 and received my Biology Bachelor of Arts degree, as well as a minor in Spanish.
Describe the moment when you realized you wanted to become an optometrist.
My interest was sparked by my childhood optometrist who cared for me beyond just my eyes. As I got older, I realized I wanted to become an optometrist when I shadowed local eye care providers who never had a negative thing to say about the profession and always had a smile on their face. With more research, optometry offered many modalities of work and most importantly a healthy work/life balance which was something I wanted for myself and my future family.
Why did you choose IUSO?
I chose IUSO because they viewed my application in its entirety and took the time to look at me as a person and not just another GPA. When I toured at my admissions day, I couldn’t help but feel as though the students and faculty were all there to support me and that we were all working towards crossing the finish line together. Everyone was so open and caring, almost like a family, and that was very important to me. I felt at home and comfortable.
What has been your favorite part or moment of being an optometry student so far?
My favorite part about being an optometry student has been learning all the different clinical techniques that will be applicable to my day-to-day life. I have gained a whole new appreciation for my optometrist. Along with this, the amazing opportunities that come with being an optometry student have also been my favorite. Coming from humble beginnings, never in a million years did I ever think I would be able to go to Washington, D.C., for an optometry meeting or have the chance to go to Jamaica for a mission trip. It’s truly been a blessing.
Why did you get involved in NOSA?
Being Hispanic myself, I found it important to stay up to date and learn more about the advancement in visual health for minority populations.
Do you plan on staying engaged with NOA when you become a doctor? Why?
When I graduate, I do plan to stay involved in NOA in order to expand my scope of practice and expand the population I am able to serve.
Who has been your mentor or the person you reach out to the most?
It is difficult to choose a specific individual who I have reached out to the most, because all of the students and faculty have all been so supportive in this journey. I would have to say Dr. Kohne has been my biggest cheerleader and support since I toured at my admission day, and till this day continues to reassure me in times of difficulty.
What advice (or words of encouragement) would you give a current high-school or undergrad student who is interested in optometry as a possible career?
DO IT! The profession offers more diversity in specialties than most people would think, and although the studies may be difficult at time, remember to look at the bigger picture. The end goal, and trust me when I tell you, the moment you fix a little boy’s glasses that he thought couldn’t be fixed or help someone see the world clearer for the first time, and you see the smile on their faces, it’s a feeling like no other.
When you have free time, what do you like to do?
In my free time, I spend a lot of time at the gym working out and trying to stay healthy, so that I may be the best I can be for my future patients.
What state do you want to practice in after graduating? What kind of optometry practice or specialty do you want to work in?
I plan to practice in the state of Indiana, particularly Northwest Indiana. My dream would be to work in private practice and hopefully own my own clinic one day, where I will offer primary care, sports vision therapy, and volunteer opportunities to travel abroad on a mission trip to serve underdeveloped countries.
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