MCO Ambassadors for Admissions

allison fiori

Hello! My name is Ally, and I am a member of the Class of 2026. I am one of the representatives for my class, as well as I serve as the Community Outreach Coordinator for our Private Practice Association. This means I get to plan events like New Student Orientation, and Eye Ball, as well as help with different Private Practice Association conferences or events. I did my undergraduate studies at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, and I majored in Biology. I graduated in 2020, and took a break before starting at MCO. I worked at a private practice near my hometown that solidified my passion for optometry. The moment I toured MCO, I fell in love with our gorgeous laboratories and tight knit community. I often find myself sitting in class thankful that I made the choice to attend. Optometry school is challenging, so it is nice to love where you go. If you have any questions whatsoever, please feel free to contact me at [email protected].

Ashton franchino

I was raised in Alaska and love to engage in all outdoor activities, and my favorites are fly-fishing and backpacking. In Big Rapids, I enjoy visiting the disc golf course at Northend Park as it gives me a great excuse to get outside and enjoy nature! I was introduced to optometry through the glasses I’ve worn since I was young and chose optometry as my career after experiencing the inner workings of the clinic across a span of 5 years. MCO has given me the opportunity to pursue optometry under close guidance thanks to a small class size and great student to teacher ratio. I look forward to meeting all my future patients!  [email protected]

bridgette Vedra

I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. I did my undergraduate studies at Ohio State University where I majored in Health Sciences and Rehabilitation and double minored in biology and clinical psychology. I had known I wanted to become an Optometrist since the fourth grade and always assumed I would stay at school close to home. After interviewing at MCO, I knew this was the right school for me. The professors genuinely enjoy forming connections and getting to know each of us which makes learning from them an easy and fun experience! If you have questions about class or life at MCO feel free to email me at [email protected]

brooke castillo

I completed my bachelor's degree in biology with honors here at Ferris State University before coming to MCO. While completing my undergraduate degree I worked part time at an optometry office in my hometown, which solidified my confidence that optometry school was right for me. MCO's small class size was a major draw for me when looking at schools and I love the connections I've had the opportunity to make with professors and classmates because of it. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me! Email: [email protected] 

dawson winters

I attended Grand Valley State University where I studied biology and ran cross country and track. I completed my education in 4.5 years and took the second half of the year to work in a retina clinic in Grand Rapids. This experience in combination with working as a technician for 4 summers solidified my excitement for a career in optometry. I started at the Michigan College of Optometry in the Fall of 2022 and immediately felt at home. MCO offers one of the best optometry educations in the country, while fostering an environment where every student can succeed. I can confidently say I have met some lifelong friends here and look forward to meeting the next generation of students. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions.  [email protected]

garrison farr

I am from Muskegon, Michigan, and attended Muskegon Community College for 2 years before finishing my undergraduate degree at Ferris State University with a bachelors in Pre-Optometry/Biology. I became interested in optometry as a child when I would need routine eye exams due to one of my eyes being weaker than the other, where I patched one eye to strengthen the other. During highschool I interned for a local optometrist to get an idea of the profession. I also spent a year prior to my first year and the summer after my first year working for a private practice gaining a lot of valuable experience. The time I spent working in a practice solidified my aspirations to become an optometrist! I chose The Michigan College of Optometry due to its proximity, the student to faculty ratio, and the overall quality of education. The small class size truly allows for a family-like atmosphere. MCO was my dream location for graduate school, and it has lived up to those dreams! Feel free to reach out with any questions! [email protected]

gretchen stuben

Hello! I am from Shelby Township, Michigan and completed my undergraduate studies at Michigan State University, where I majored in Physiology and minored in Bioethics. During my time at MSU, I was in the Lyman Briggs College and was involved in Pre-Optometry Club, where I served as President my senior year. I became interested in optometry through shadowing and working at a private optometry practice while in undergrad, where I was a technician and vision therapist. I am very happy with my decision to attend MCO, I love the small class sizes, the amazing faculty, and I’ve met life-long friends. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me! [email protected]

Lindsey hopkins

I completed my Bachelors Degree in Clinical Laboratory Science at Eastern Michigan University. After graduation, I spent the next five years working in various jobs looking for the next career move. During this time, I worked as an ophthalmic technician taking a special interest in refractive surgery. It wasn’t until I left that position, realized how much I loved working with eyeballs, returned to being a technician, did I find my path to becoming an optometrist. MCO was my first choice because of the small class sizes, high academic performance, and close location to my family. After starting school, you quickly realize how involved the school is in clubs, how welcoming the professors are, and the overall family-atmosphere. I am currently serving as President-Elect of the Optometric Public Health Student Association (OPHSA) and Sports Vision Student Liaison Elect of the Vision Rehabilitation Club (VRC). Please don’t hesitate to email me! I’m happy to help with any aspects of your optometry journey and look forward to seeing you at MCO.  [email protected]

mariah bierlein

Hello, my name is Mariah and I am originally from Frankenmuth, Michigan! I went to Ferris State University for my Bachelors in Biology. I first became interested in optometry as a child when I went in for an eye exam hoping to get glasses but unfortunately learned that I did not need them. Since then, I have become grateful to not need glasses full time and my love for optometry has grown. Prior to starting MCO, I shadowed in multiple modalities of optometry offices and worked one summer in a commercial optometry practice. I also gained experience by working in an ophthalmology clinic during the summer between my first and second year. I ultimately decided to stay in Big Rapids and attend MCO because of the small town atmosphere and the friendliness of everyone during my interview. That friendliness has grown throughout my years at MCO between my classmates, other classes, and the doctors. If you have any questions or just want to chat with a student at MCO feel free to reach out to me at [email protected].

marino markho

I was born and raised in Toledo, Ohio and attended the Ohio State University during my undergraduate studies, where I graduated with a degree in neuroscience.  Here at MCO, I am currently a Trustee-Elect for the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), student liaison for the American Academy of Optometry (AAO), and a liaison for the Diversify Optometry Program of the National Optometric Student Association (NOSA). During my undergraduate studies, I had shadowed many fields looking for what I can make of myself, and saw my true potential in optometry. I shadowed my local optometrist and from the first patient I was hooked. This field encompassed a community environment, fun and friendly atmosphere, as well as a caring and compassionate standard of care that was unmatched. There is no better place that instills these values into its institution than the Michigan College of Optometry! Choosing this school as my new home for these four years is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. [email protected]

matthew alderink

I started out at a community college for two years before transferring to Ferris State University for one year of undergrad. I completed a BS in Vision Science through the 3+4 program offered by MCO. I knew since freshmen year of high school I wanted to be an optometrist, and started out working at a practice in my hometown shortly after graduating. After transferring to Ferris State University, I found my way into MCO’s clinic working as a Student Optician while also starting a job at a local optometry practice. I tried to expose myself to the field of optometry as much as I could, and the more I learned, the more I knew this was the right field for me. The same is true now that I am in the program, as I’ve tried to get as involved as I can. I currently serve in the following positions: Class Representative for the class of 2026, Contact Lens & Anterior Segment Representative, Secretary of the Michigan Optometric Student association, Co-Community Chair of the Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity, and Treasurer of the Optometric Public Health Student Association. MCO offers plenty of opportunities to get involved to help you further your understanding well beyond your classes. With such a small class size, you get to know your classmates and faculty extremely well. MCO really starts to feel like a second home. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! [email protected]

saif abdulameer

I grew up in Vermillion, SD before moving to Big Rapids, MI later on. I completed my undergraduate studies at Ferris State University, where I obtained my B.S. in Vision Science through the 3+4 program. As well as a student ambassador, I am also currently serving as  secretary for the National Optometric Student Association. While I've always known the medical field was for me, it wasn't until I began shadowing several modes of practice and working at an OD/MD office that I realized Optometry was for me. I especially love how it allows me to forge a compassionate and meaningful connection with patients while simultaneously having the incredible opportunity to alleviate their vision and ocular health, sometimes in life-changing ways. I enjoy MCO's small student-to-faculty ratio and the comfortable environment that comes along with a small class size. The comradery and relationships formed are an amazing result of that! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! [email protected]

stephanie mathews

Hello! My name is Stephanie and I am a Canadian student from Cambridge, Ontario. I completed an undergraduate Bachelor of Science in biology at McMaster University in 2021. As a near-sighted individual, I had always valued my optometrist. In high school I started to consider it as a career when I realized how perfectly this profession combined all my interests in science, healthcare, and working with people! Prior to starting at MCO I spent a gap year working full time as an optometric technician while I applied to optometry schools across the US. I decided MCO was the best fit for me because of its closeness to home, small class sizes, the student-to-faculty ratio, and state-of-the-art facilities. If you have any questions about the program, being an international student, or life in Big Rapids please feel free to email me at [email protected].

Tristan Voelker

I did my undergraduate studies at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa where I majored in biology. It was a small school, which is something that I really enjoy about MCO. I feel like I get a lot of attention and help when I’m struggling in a class or a lab. Plus, every professor knows you by first name and will treat you as an equal. I’ve always been extremely far-sighted, which is what started my passion for optometry, but working as a technician during holiday breaks while I was an undergrad made me confident in my career choice. If you ever need anything, don’t be afraid to stop me in the hallway or shoot me an email!  [email protected]

Second 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]  

chelsea jepsen

I completed my undergraduate studies through the 3+4 program at Ferris State University, earning my BS in Vision Science after my first year at MCO. I was also fortunate to be accepted into MCO through the early admissions program. During optometry school, I’ve been actively involved in various clubs, and I am honored to serve as the president-elect of the private practice club, a role I’m especially passionate about. The opportunity to own a private practice is a major reason I chose optometry over other medical careers. Beyond private practice, what excites me most about optometry is the chance to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives every day. My experience at MCO has been truly exceptional—both the education and the community are of the highest caliber. I’m confident that MCO is equipping me to become the best optometrist I can be, and I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else!  Chelsea Jepsen [email protected] 

Erica dann

Hello! My name is Erica, and I am from Saginaw, Michigan. I completed my undergraduate studies at Delta Community College and Ferris State University. I enjoy being involved in extracurricular activities and am one of the representatives for my class, a contact lens/anterior segment liaison, and a member of SVOSH. I became interested in optometry while working at a private practice during undergrad, and I’m so happy I chose MCO for my education. After touring MCO, I knew it was where I belonged for optometry school. I love the small class sizes, amazing faculty, and the unlimited opportunities that MCO provides for students! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [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] 

rachel oppermann

I attended Ferris State University and completed my bachelor's degree in biology. I became highly interested in optometry because I was exposed to the profession from a very young age. My father is a practicing optometrist, and I always like to say that his office was my daycare growing up. I kept myself occupied by experimenting with tinted lenses and playing hide-and-seek in the exam rooms. It was not your average childhood, but I loved it and knew that this was a field that could keep me satisfied for the rest of my career. I firmly believe that MCO nurtures its students to become the most exceptional optometrists. The education, the staff, and the overall environment makes MCO a successful facility as well as successful students. Feel free to email me if there are any further questions! [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] 

samuel hibbs

I completed my undergraduate studies at Albion College, earning a Bachelor of Liberal Arts in 2022. My aspiration to become an optometrist was deeply influenced by a close family member who lost her vision due to ocular disease. Witnessing what she experienced, it inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to improving people's vision. I am now in my second year at MCO, where I have found a nurturing environment that feels like a second home. My choice to attend MCO was confirmed during my interview, where I saw the college’s dedication to providing outstanding resources and fostering valuable connections. Beyond my studies, I am actively involved in the Public Health Club, contributing to community health initiatives in Big Rapids and the area surrounding. Additionally, I serve on the Board of Trustees for the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), where I support and mentor fellow optometry students nationwide, helping them achieve their professional goals.  Samuel Hibbs [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] 

zane gutwillinger

Originally from Sudbury, Ontario, I completed my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University. Following graduation, I took a two-year break from school to gain practical experience working in an optometry clinic. This hands-on experience provided me with a profound understanding of optometry and significantly prepared me for my studies at MCO. Although I was initially hesitant about applying to schools in the US, I ultimately could not imagine myself anywhere other than MCO. I truly appreciate the close-knit community here, as the smaller class size has allowed me to forge strong connections with both my classmates and faculty. Please feel free to email me anytime! Zane Gutwillinger [email protected]