^{One of the most important skills I learned as an Optica Ambassador and through the Level Up Leadership program is the importance of mentorship. Mentorship is an important part of personal and professional growth. Learning from others can be humbling, engaging, exciting and fulfilling.} 

^{One of the reasons I support the Optica Foundation is because of the programs that I wish were in existence when I was coming up in my career. As someone who has received so much from this field, I think it’s important that we pay it forward to support the next generation.}

_{^{The Optica Foundation has inspired me in many ways. First and foremost, it really serves to aggregate the philanthropic activities for the society in a way that has a terrific impact, especially with students. This is really important because even a slight change in a student’s trajectory when they’re in college can make an incredible difference in the trajectory their career follows.}}

_{I truly appreciated the opportunity to connect with brilliant minds from different backgrounds, exchange ideas and gain perspectives that will continue to shape my journey. A heartfelt thank you to all the amazing speakers who dedicated their time to mentor, inspire and empower us throughout the week.}

^{I didn’t have opportunities to travel internationally growing up, and becoming connected to students from around the world such as at the Siegman school blew my mind and created some life long friends. I became involved with Optica first in the student chapter and expanded from there.}