^{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.}

Oftentimes, it is an Optica Foundation activity that serves as a student's first introduction to Optica, and it's something in which they are welcomed to the community and they feel a belonging to something bigger. 

_{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 connecting with students from around the world, like at the Siegman School, blew my mind and helped me make lifelong friends. I became involved with Optica first in the student chapter and expanded from there.