Skyler S. is on a mission to bridge the gap between medicine and fashion in the optical industry, one pair of eyeglass frames at a time.
With a background in clinical medicine and psychology, Skyler's journey reflects a fusion of passions and a commitment to finding her true calling. Guided by her mother-in-law's experience as a former American Career College student, Skyler found inspiration in the field of optical technology thanks to a trip to the mall.
"My mother-in-law was an optical tech student here many years ago. She recommended ACC to me, recognizing my interest in both healthcare and fashion," she recalls. "I know a lot of brands, and she said, 'I have Gucci and Tiffany brand glasses in my store,' and I went to check them out and was like, 'Oh, it's pretty cool.'"
Joining ACC's Optical Technician program, Skyler immersed herself in hands-on training that bridged the gap between medicine and fashion. Skyler said the program's emphasis on practical skills and industry knowledge has been invaluable, helping her with hands-on skills like frame adjustments to understanding insurance protocols.
"I really enjoy doing hand work, so I appreciate all the chance to practice here because literally on my testing day at work, I met with a patient needing frame adjustments," she said, "so if I didn't come here and practice those things under the program director's teaching on my test working I'd be, 'What is this?'"
Balancing her studies with a part-time job, Skyler faced moments of doubt but remained steadfast in her pursuit of success.
"If you have this opportunity, don't let it go. Really catch it," she said. "When I have doubts, I think about the good things from where I work, the good things about the school and about the result if I keep doing this — what kind of good results I would have. Those kinds of things motivate me, and also by the support for my husband and my parents too."
In the meantime, Skyler said she is looking forward to graduating and getting at least one more pair of frames to replace the ones her dog chewed on.
“This is not my favorite pair. I have a rimless one – and I would say rimless match me the best -- but unfortunately my dog broke the end of my earpiece so I cannot wear it anymore,” she said, laughing. “I have on my list two pairs of Dior sunglasses -- that's my favorite brand of sunglasses -- and I'm going to get a pair of Celine sunglasses. And also, right now, I'm impressed with the Gentle Monster brand, but unfortunately, the style I like isn’t in the US, but there are five pairs of frames that I am looking at now.”
