Our Ambassadors provide tours to prospective students and other visitors. In addition to the tours, the Ambassadors assist with the interview days and orientation. They also work very closely with the Admissions office in providing an invaluable resource for prospective students.
If you would like to speak with a current student about their experience applying to or choosing 51³Ô¹Ï College of Optometry, you are invited to contact them directly. They will be happy to help you! You can also follow the College of Optometry on Instagram !
Class of 2027
Payson Baker
Third Year
bak19127@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: MacEwan University
Major: Biology
Hometown: Raymond, Alberta
One reason I chose Pacific: I choose Pacific because of the conversations I have had with previous alumni. The atmosphere that they described was something that I really wanted in a graduate school. I felt that the staff and other faculty will do everything they can to help us achieve the goals that we have as students.
Hobbies: Golfing, reading, spending time with family, and trying new places to eat.
Clubs / Organizations: CAOS, Sports Vision, Student Ambassadors
Jules Bryan
Third Year
brya7540@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Nevada, Reno
Major: Biology
Hometown: Reno, NV
One reason I chose Pacific: I choose Pacific because of the supportive environment and opportunities to be involved in my educaiton. All of the faculty, staff, and other students at PUCO are so welcoming and made the transition into graduate school so much easier. I also wanted to live in a place that had opportunities for exploring, and the PNW is perfect for getting outside.
Hobbies: Hiking, camping, backpacking, animals (especially dogs), and reading!
Clubs / Organizations: AOSA, Contact Lens and Cornea Section Club, Sports Vision, Rural Optometry, Private Practice Club, AMIGOS, Student Ambassadors
Abigail Hoepner
Third Year
hoep7202@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Kansas State University
Major: Life Sciences
Hometown: Shawnee, KS
One reason I chose Pacific: Everyone at Pacific made me feel so welcome throughout the entire admissions process! The students and faculty made me feel right at home, and it was clear how focused everyone is on helping students succeed. I could see myself here getting a top-tier education while feeling supported and a part of a close community. I also love all the opportunities to get outside and explore in the beautiful PNW!
Hobbies: Hiking, reading, playing guitar, anything involving animals
Clubs / Organizations: AOSA, AMIGOS, Ocular Disease Club, Contact Lens and Cornea Section Club, Vision Therapy Club, Private Practice Management, Rural Optometry
Karah Hopgood
President
Third Year
hopg7000@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia, Okanagan
Major: Honors Biochemistry, Minor in Psychology
Hometown: West Kelowna, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: One of the reasons I chose Pacific was because of the close-knit campus community that the College of Optometry offered. Pacific really stood out to me as it fosters an environment of community over competition, and the support that was offered from the staff, faculty and students was unmatched. From my first email with the program, to my first time on campus, I felt welcomed and supported. At every stage along the way, from applying to accepting my offer and preparing to move as an international student, I received prompt communication, resources and support. As a Canadian student in particular, one of the qualities I appreciated about Pacific was the wonderful International office and their incredible support in helping students secure all required documents. Furthermore, another quality I admired about the school was the great emphasis on community outreach. The opportunities to get involved and give back to the community, including getting involved with the Eyevan, is a unique quality that demonstrates Pacifics’ commitment to service.
Hobbies: Hiking, exploring, travelling, baking, spending time with friends and family, reading, paddle boarding and yoga
Clubs / Organizations: Student Ambassadors, AOSA, AMIGOS, CAOS, PPMG, Ocular Disease, OWNS, Sport Vision, Contact Lens, Rural Optometry
Muskaan Jhutty
Third Year
jhut1491@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Simon Fraser University
Major: Health Sciences
Hometown: Surrey, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of its location (who doesn't love the Pacific Northwest?) and the sense of community that radiates from this institution. Faculty and peers are truly here to support one another, contributing to a educational community that emphasizes collarborative efforts and helping one another.
Hobbies: Crafting, swimming, diving, trying new cusines, biking, and spending time with family and friends!
Clubs / Organizations: Optometric Physicians of Washington, Contact Lens and Cornea Section Club, CAOS, OWNS, Ocular Disease
Zaahid Lalani
Third Year
zlalani@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia
Major: Biology
Hometown: North Vancouver, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: Growing up on the Pacific Northwest, I felt right at home as soon as I got to Forest Grove. The engaging campus lifestyle, the endless opportunities for students and the extremely supportive and friendly staff and faculty members made 51³Ô¹Ï the best choice for me!
Hobbies: Playing soccer and pickleball, watching hockey, drinking coffee, catching up on the latest movies and spending time with family + friends
Clubs / Organizations: Sports Vision, Vision Therapy, OWNS, CAOS, CLCS, Ocular Disease
Catherine Leung
Third Year
leun7431@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: McGill University
Major: Anatomy and Cell Biology
Hometown: Richmond, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because many alumni have told me about the amazing support we get from classmates, upper year students, and faculty staff in the program, and I can sense the supportive environment.
Hobbies: Hiking, running, exploring new places and things, baking, playing piano
Clubs / Organizations: Contact Lens and Corena Section Club, CAOS, Ocular Disease
Grace O'Dell
Third Year
odel8640@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Univeresity of Montana
Major: Integrative Physiology
Hometown: Gig Harbor, WA
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the people. When you come to Pacific you join a family! Everyone here truly cares about each other and wants to see the others succeed. There is a culture of collaboration and respect among peers and faculty that made Pacific feel like the place where I could achieve all of my goals!
Hobbies: Hiking, baking, reading, working out, and spending time with friends and family
Clubs / Organizations: Contact Lens and Corena Section Club, Sports Vision, Vision Therapy, and Rural Optometry
Alicia Poovong
Secretary
Third Year
poov1705@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Calgary
Major: Plant Biology
Hometown: Calgary, AB
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51³Ô¹Ï because of the sense of community and support between the students and faculty. Everyone at the College of Optometry are supportive and truly care about one another. I also chose Pacific because it's location would give me the opportunity to explore the great PNW!
Hobbies: Hiking, painting, baking, biking, crocheting, trying new places to eat
Clubs / Organizations: Contact Lens and Cornea Section Club, CAOS, Ocular Disease Club, Rural Optometry
Anna Reard
Third Year
annareard@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Minnesota
Major: Cellular and Organismal Physiology
Hometown: Fergus Falls, MN
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the family atmosphere. When I visited Pacific for the first time, the inclusive community made it feel like home. The stellar faculty, opportunities to explore various interests, and ways to engage with the community make Pacific one of a kind. I knew that at Pacific, I would receive a phenomenal education, engage outside of class, make lifelong friends, and spend my free time exploring the PNW!
Hobbies: Paddleboarding, hiking, fishing, wake surfing, card games, dance, scuba diving, reading
Clubs / Organizations: AMIGOS, Vision Therapy, Sports Vision, Rural Optometry, Private Practice Management, Contact Lens and Cornea Section, Class Council, AOSA, Student Ambassadors
Allison Wilkes
Third Year
wilk8604@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: 51³Ô¹Ï
Major: Public Health
Hometown: Tillamook, OR
One reason I chose Pacific: Four years ago, I instantly felt welcomed at Pacific for their undergraduate program. Since then, Pacific has become my home and the support and closeness of the PUCO family has been like no other. Not only is PUCO an exceptional program with intelligent and caring professors and endless opprotunities, but I have already met and bonded with classmates that I know will be lifelong friends.
Hobbies: Running, hiking, swimming, skiing, reading, spending time with friends
Clubs / Organizations: AMIGOS, Ocular Disease Club, Contact Lens Club, Sports Vision, Rural Optometry, AOSA
Class of 2028
Mariya Bikanerwala
Second Year
bika2181@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Washington Seattle
Major: Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology
Hometown: Sammamish, WA
One reason I chose Pacific: I was drawn to Pacific because of its strong sense of community, collaboration, and support. After experiencing a highly competitive and negative undergraduate environment, I wanted a program where students genuinely helped each other succeed. The staff and faculty were consistently warm and welcoming in every interaction I had, even before I committed. It was reassuring to see how invested they were in their students' success and how much they encouraged collaboration with both doctors and peers. PUCO’s focus on academic excellence and personal growth made it the perfect place for my optometric education.
Hobbies: Cooking, baking, reading, watching movies, Pilates and traveling
Clubs/Organizations: Contact Lens and Cornea Section, Pacific Practice Management Group, Ocular Disease Club, Class Council Treasurer
Katrina Billinton
Secretary-Elect
Second Year
k091859a@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia - Okanagan
Major: Biology
Hometown: West Kelowna, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the warm, collaborative, and open atmosphere! Everyone here wants you to succeed, and there's so many different avenues to support you and your studies. There's a true feeling of care here nurtured by all the faculty and students, which makes the campus feel like a second home. Additionally as a Canadian, I had heard that Pacific has a large Canadian student body and is very supportive to Canadians, which also helped draw me in.
Hobbies: Drawing, reading, listening to music, Pilates, video games
Clubs/Organizations: OWNS, CLSC, Vision Therapy, CAOS, Ocular Disease
Kate Fransoo
Second Year
fran1292@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Saskatchewan
Major: Biomedical Sciences
Hometown: North Battleford, SK
One reason I chose Pacific: I loved the small town feel and campus. The optometry staff were so welcoming and support their students
Hobbies: Playing any sport, baking, spending time outdoors
Clubs/Organizations: Rural practice, Sports vision club, Canadian Club
Nancy Hernandez
Second Year
nancynoelda@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Texas at Austin
Major: Journalism
Hometown: Dallas, TX
One reason I chose Pacific: Two key factors drew me to Pacific – the strong sense of community and the diversity in the classroom and clinical settings. Graduate programs can be challenging, so I wanted an environment where students support each other rather than compete. Conversations with alumni, faculty, and students reassured me that Pacific offers the support system I was seeking. Pacific's outreach programs also showed their dedication to serving a diverse community, which really resonated with me. Plus, as someone who loves spending time outdoors, living in the PNW was a huge bonus!
Hobbies: Hiking, camping, snowboarding, and spending time with family, friends and my pup!
Clubs/Organizations: Ocular Disease, Vision Therapy, PPMG
Kathryn Hopsicker
Second Year
hops0905@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Gettysburg College
Major: Health Sciences
Hometown: Alexandria, PA
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose PUCO because the kindness and support shown by the many wonderful humans at Pacific made me feel like I would be able to succeed academically and personally here! Plus, the PNW offers such wonderful opportunities to explore!
Hobbies: Hiking, baking, cooking, throwing pottery, reading, and listening to new music
Clubs/Organizations: Rural Optometry Club, Ocular Disease Club, Pacific Practice Management Group
Ibby Lorentz
Second Year
ibbylorentz@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Major: Biological Sciences
Hometown: Seeley Lake, MT
One reason I chose Pacific: I wanted a small tight knit class where we work together as a team. Everyone was so welcoming, happy to tell me about pacific and help me with every part of the process. I liked how accessible the professors are and loved the campus. Pacific is also closer to home than all the other schools.
Hobbies: Hiking, camping, paddleboarding, baking, traveling, and exploring new coffee shops
Clubs/Organizations: Amigos, OWNS, Pacific Practice Management, rural optometry club, contact lens club, sports vision club
Mansi Patel
Second Year
pate2184@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of California-Riverside
Major: Biology
Hometown: San Jose, CA
One reason I chose Pacific: There were two key factors that made me decide to choose Pacific: the community and the location. The community here at PUCO is very welcoming! The entire process from applying, to interviewing, to my first day at school was amazing! There are always people open and willing to help and everyone is here to support you. Coming from a big city as well, I was a bit worried that the quiet "small town" vibes wouldn't fit what I'm used to, but it's actually been way better than expected. Moving out of state was difficult at first, but so many other students are travelling far from home so you all get to experience this new city together and do fun activities on the weekends such as hike or go on a quick day trip to Portland!
Hobbies: Cooking, art, dancing, working out, spending time with friends/family
Clubs/Organizations: CAOS, Ocular Disease Club, Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society, Vision Therapy Club, CLCS
Abby Paterson
President-Elect
Second Year
pate0887@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Regina
Major: Biology
Hometown: Balgonie, SK
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because every interaction during the application process was extremely positive, and there was such a welcoming atmosphere. Everyone from the faculty to other students are so helpful with questions or anything you need. I also love the small town feel and the beautiful campus!
Hobbies: Sports, baking, music, and traveling
Clubs/Organizations: CAOS, Amigos, SVC, Rural Optometry, Oc Disease, Vision therapy, NOSA
Brittney Phung
Second Year
brittney@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Alberta
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Edmonton, AB
One reason I chose Pacific: Pacific was my top choice because of the warm and welcoming environment. From alumni to faculty to students, everyone had such great things to say, they were so kind, and already made me feel comfortable. The supportive and uplifting atmosphere was also one of the top reasons for why I chose Pacific. Additionally, as a Canadian student, knowing that there is a significant population of other Canadian students, it eased my mind knowing I would have many people who could support me if I needed it.
Hobbies: Listening to music, going to the gym, playing ukulele, singing, traveling
Clubs/Organizations: CAOS, Amigos, Ocular Disease, CLSC
Liberty Schram
Second Year
schr2100@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia - Okanagan
Major: Microbiology
Hometown: Dawson Creek, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: When considering 51³Ô¹Ï, I immediately felt the supportive and inclusive environment they are known for. The small-town vibe of Forest Grove feels like home. What truly sealed my decision was the genuine kindness and support from the faculty and peers—their goals are to see students succeed, which makes all the difference in education. As well, because I had worked with Pacific alumni during my undergrad, I had seen in action how the curriculum prepared the doctors to become great clinicians. Finally, coming from Canada, I appreciated how welcoming the school was; it was comforting to know there were many other Canadians in similar positions, ready to help navigate any obstacles.
Hobbies: Hiking, camping, spending time with animals, traveling
Clubs/Organizations: CAOS, CLSC, Rural Optometry Club, Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society, Vision Therapy Club, Sports Vision Club
Michelle Shuai
Second Year
mshuai@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia
Major: Biology
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of how helpful and supportive the faculty and the community is. From the first day I interacted with PUCO's students and staff, I felt instantly welcomed and knew that they were there to help me succeed. As a Canadian student, I also really appreciate the resources that they provide for students, and how they try to cater to student specific needs. So don't hesitate to reach out as everyone is here to help!
Hobbies: Exploring the city and finding cute stores, baking, travelling, concerts, working out, video games
Clubs/Organizations: CAOS, AMIGOS, Ocular Disease, CLSC, AOSA
Julia Sveen
Second Year
e094153j@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Minnesota Duluth
Major: Biology
Hometown: Edinburg, ND
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose 51³Ô¹Ï because of its strong emphasis on student success and the supportive community. Everyone here, from staff to students, is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. The numerous campus resources offer both personal and professional growth. An added bonus is living in the PNW, especially in Forest Grove with its small-town feel, has always been a dream of mine. I knew that Pacific would be the perfect place to pursue my passion and have support along the way.
Clubs/Organizations: SAFOS, AMIGOS, Ocular disease, Rural Optometry, Sports Vision Club
Sara Vermeulen
Second Year
verm0835@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia - Okanagan
Major: Biology
Hometown: Williams Lake, B.C.
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the supportive learning environment and sense of community. From day one I have felt welcomed and supported by not only the faculty, but my peers and upperclassmen as well. Everyone here truly does want you to succeed and reach your goal of becoming an optometrist, and there is an obvious sense that we are all in this together. Additionally, it didn't help that my optometrist is a Pacific alumni.
Hobbies: Working out, sports (especially hockey), spending time outdoors, country concerts
Clubs/Organizations: SVC, Rural Optometry, OWNS, CAOS, AMIGOS, CLCS, Vision Therapy
Ikeam Voravongsa
Second Year
k091864a@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Chapman University
Major: Health Sciences
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
One reason I chose Pacific: Coming from a supportive and welcoming environment at my undergraduate institution, I wanted to find another community I could be a part of and I found that here at PUCO! From speaking to students at Welcome Day and interacting with faculty, I knew from the start that I would feel at ease knowing that I would be in a community where everyone is rooting for your success. I also was drawn to the different types of specialties that we can explore here at Pacific.
Hobbies: Journaling, dancing, listening to NCT Dream, and collecting Sonny Angels!
Clubs/Organizations: Cornea & Contact Lens Section
Class of 2029
Addyson Hughes
First Year
g101086x@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Minot State University
Major: Biology
Hometown: Burlington, ND
One reason I chose Pacific: Reputation of producing highly skilled ODs, location, WICHE, opportunity to practice skills in multiple clinics
Hobbies: Watching & playing sports, exploring Oregon, reading
Clubs/Organizations: AMIGOS, FCO, PPMG Club, Rural Optometry Club, VT Club, CLCS Club, AAO
Tiffany Li
First Year
litiff@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Oregon State University
Major: Biohealth Sciences
Hometown: Tigard, OR
One reason I chose Pacific: Pacific has an incredible blend of providing clinical and career opportunities while also cultivating a tightly-knit community between their students and faculty. Growing up in Oregon, I’ve always appreciated the warmth and hospitality of the Pacific Northwest and Pacific feels like a true reflection of the place I’m proud to call home.
Hobbies: Hiking, baking, video games, collecting stationary & trinkets, trying new matcha and coffee shops
Clubs/Organizations: AMIGOS, Contact Lens & Corneal Section Club, AOSA, Student Ambassadors
Caitlyn LeBourdais
First Year
g101085x@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia - Okanagan
Major: Biology
Hometown: Williams Lake, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: Pacific is a beautiful campus with a great OD program that allows for a lot of hands-on experience starting right in your first year. The students and faculty here are amazing and make it feel like home.
Hobbies: Water sports, camping, hiking, snowboarding, soccer, traveling
Clubs/Organizations: Rural optometry, CAOS, PPMG, AMIGOS, CLCS, Sports Vision, VT club, Ocular Disease Club, AAO, AOSA
Annabel Lee
First Year
annabellee@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of California, Riverside
Major: Environmental Science
Hometown: West Hills, CA
One reason I chose Pacific: I really love the atmosphere, environment, and community here! Even though the course is rigorous, the faculty care so much about the wellbeing of each and every student. Since day one, this place has felt like a place where I can truly be myself!
Hobbies: Board games, binge-watching shows, taking walks, going to cafes, worshipping the Lord :)
Clubs/Organizations: OWSA, NOSA, CLCS
Nicholas Lopez
First Year
nicholashenrylopez@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Utah
Major: Kinesiology
Hometown: Newbury Park, CA
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the tight knit community that it has. Everyone from peers to professors are very engaging and supportive of each other’s success. The clinical programs here are really strong preparing students for clinic and to become the best future ODs. Pacific is located in one of the most beautiful locations offering for many activities to explore making it feel like home!
Hobbies: Running, Cycling, Swimming, Hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends
Clubs/Organizations: AMIGOS, Sports Vision, Ocular Disease, Contact Lens Club
Jaden Milne
First Year
jadenmilne@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Calgary
Major: Molecular Biology
Hometown: Calgary, AB
One reason I chose Pacific: I loved the community and atmosphere! Pacific has great clinical programs and provides lots of hands-on experience.
Hobbies: Spend time exploring outside, hiking, trying new coffee and food places
Clubs/Organizations: AMIGOS, PPMG, VT Club, CLCS, CAOS, Ocular Disease Club, Sports Vision Club, OWNS, AAO
Siya Momi
First Year
skmomi@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia - Okanagan
Major: Microbiology
Hometown: Kelowna, BC
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of their fostering and compassionate community, as well as incredible hands-on clinical training. Moreover, Pacific has a beautiful campus and environment with much to admire. Being in a small town, I believe it truly helps create a stronger bond with your classmates and mentors, who are very skilled, and passionate about your learning, along with what they do as ODs.
Hobbies: Traveling and exploring, swimming, Pilates, watching movies/shows, baking, spending time with friends and family
Clubs/Organizations: Student Ambassadors, CAOS, AMIGOS, CLCS, AAO, VT club, Ocular Disease Club, Sports Vision Club
Skylar Rago
First Year
g099665z@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Victoria
Major: Biology
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
One reason I chose Pacific: I have known about Pacific for a long time because both my mother and my grandfather are 51³Ô¹Ï alumnus and are now practicing ODs. When making the decision on where go to optometry school, I remember feeling so scared and confused about what school was the right fit for me. However, during my visit day at Pacific, I instantly felt like I was at home. I ultimately chose Pacific because I felt like the optometry program was a family and I wanted to be in a supportive environment. I am so beyond happy with my choice in Pacific. I feel so close with all my classmates and faculty members and everyone is so uplifting towards each other. Additionally, I feel confident in the education and clinical experience I will receive during my time at Pacific.
Hobbies: I love hanging out with my friends and family, line dancing, cooking, watching hockey, trying new coffee shops, and getting froyo!!
Clubs/Organizations: CO '29 Student Council, CAOS, AMIGOS, Private Practice Management
Josh Teichroeb
First Year
josh.teichroeb@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Regina
Major: Biology
Hometown: Regina, Saskatchewan
One reason I chose Pacific: The reason that I chose Pacific was mainly because of the close-knit community that is present between the faculty and the entire Student Body. Being from a smaller city, I wanted to go to a school that had a smaller community because it allows you to build close relationships with your faculty and classmates. The campus here is breath taking and being so close to the coast makes sightseeing very accessible. Another reason that I chose to come to Pacific was because of how much hands-on clinical experience you learn so early on into your education, which really helps build the foundations that we as Optometrists will be using for the rest of our careers.
Hobbies: Snowboarding, Hiking, Fishing, Camping, Cooking/Baking
Clubs/Organizations: CO '29 Student Council, CAOS, AMIGOS, Sports Vision Club, Rural Optometry, Contact Lens Club, Private Practice Management, NOSA, Vision Therapy, Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society, AOSA
Olivia Tuhy
First Year
r096137n@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Concordia College Moorhead
Major: Neuroscience
Hometown: Lisbon, North Dakota
One reason I chose Pacific: When I was first considering Optometry, I realized I would have to move far away from home due to the limited number of programs in the country. Most of the optometrists I had the opportunity to work for are Pacific alumni, and the community I knew I could be a part of back home was something that stood out to me. Growing up in a small town I learned to appreciate a tight-knit community and a welcoming atmosphere. This was exactly what I found at Pacific. It felt like home.
Hobbies: Spending time outdoors, staying active, keeping up with my favorite sports teams, spending time with friends and family
Clubs/Organizations: AMIGOS, Ocular Disease Club, Sports Vision Club, Rural Optometry, Contact Lens Club, Ocular Wellness & Nutrition Society, Private Practice Management
Katelyn Vogel
First Year
c100190u@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Jamestown
Major: Biology
Hometown: Bismarck, ND
One reason I chose Pacific: I chose Pacific because of the wonderful atmosphere. Oregon is beautiful and everyone was so welcoming throughout my entire admissions process. The small-town community of Forest Grove was a perfect fit for me since it is comparable to North Dakota. Additionally, with the Accelerated Dual Admissions program offered at Pacific, I will be able to get out in the workforce one year sooner, which is an amazing opportunity.
Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, fishing, being outdoors, watching sports, experiencing new places, baking, and golfing
Clubs/Organizations: Sports Vision, AMIGOS, Private Practice Management, VT club, Ocular Disease Club, Contact Lens Club, Rural Optometry, AAO, AOSA
Arik Weersink
First Year
aweersink@pacificu.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Red Deer Polytechnic
Major: Business Administration, Marketing
Hometown: Lethbridge, Alberta
One reason I chose Pacific: Pacific is very community based and want the very best for every student. The scenery is phenomenal, location is great, that the classmates and staff make it a perfect fit for me.
Hobbies: As a former collegiate hockey player, I love hockey, golf, hiking, and being outdoors. Also probably holding a coffee
Clubs/Organizations: Sports Vision, CAOS, AMIGOS, PPMG, and Contact Lens Club