Student Spotlight: Wiley Walls, Optometry

As a second year student in the Doctor of Optometry program at MCPHS, Wiley Walls is laying the foundation of his future career.

Wiley Walls, Optometry, loves to make people laugh. As a future optometrist, he will put his sense of humor to good use, using jokes and stories to relax his patients and connect with them on a personal level.

As a second year student in the Doctor of Optometry program at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), he’s laying the foundation of his future career, but he also takes time to foster a sense of community on the Worcester campus. He was recently elected president of the Private Practice Club, which works to educate optometry students on a variety of different optometry practices and business management skills, as well as on how other professions impact the optometric profession. In 2017, the Private Practice Club received the Organization of the Year award, making it the first optometric club to receive the accolade.

Originally from Texas, Walls is also committed to fun. “I’m the “papa” of our fun pizza club,” said Walls. “This is a club where we get some stress release, but we also serve the community through programs like Walk Fit.”

We sat down with Walls to hear about his favorite classes and his appreciation for his professors.

What excites you about Optometry?

Every day is different! We are in a low stress environment and we get to work with state-of-the-art equipment.

Why did you choose MCPHS?

I think the curriculum is fantastic and the community is very friendly. My admissions interview was with the Dean and I really enjoyed making him laugh!

Tell us about the optometry program at MCPHS.

The community is close-knit. Our class president really represents the students well and every professor knows my name. The classes are small and faculty really care about us.

What is your favorite class so far?

My anatomy class is my favorite! Dr. Freddo is excellent. It feels like we are listening to fascinating stories while we learn about anatomy. I also like that we can work in the lab with the equipment and have fun with friends while learning.

Tell us more about that.

We have an open door policy. The professors are there for students. They are compassionate and passionate about student success.

What is your favorite place on the Worcester campus?

Definitely the study area in the tower. It is a non-traditional space and has a great view as a bonus!

The Doctor of Optometry program at our Worcester, MA, campus is a four-year, full-time program designed to prepare students with the requisite skills, experience, and confidence to practice and advance as a professional optometrist in a wide variety of clinical settings.