Jordyn Lenard
Major: Biochemistry
Optometry student, Illinois College of Optometry 

What did you declare Biochemistry as your major at Butler?
I declared this as my major because I have always had an interest in the sciences but didn’t want to focus specifically on biology or chemistry. Biochemistry gave me the best of both worlds, and I was able to take many classes that were geared toward my specific interests. 

What is your current position and how did Butler help prepare you for this role? 
I am currently an optometry student at Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, Illinois. 

What is your favorite part about optometry school? 
My favorite part of optometry school has been getting to connect with patients every week and helping them see the best that they can. I have the privilege of attending a school where many rare and interesting patient cases come to the clinic, so I am constantly learning about ocular diseases that I may have never seen elsewhere. 

What are your long-term career goals?
I hope to pursue a residency in Pediatrics and Binocular Vision after I graduate from optometry school in 2027. After that, I would like to be a pediatric optometrist and specialize in vision therapy. 

What advice do you have for current Butler students?
My biggest piece of advice is to focus on your education but also be sure to pursue your interests outside of your classes as well by getting involved in clubs. It’s good to have a balance between academics and your other passions. I was involved in many different clubs while at Butler, and even now, in optometry school, I am involved in clubs that cater to my interests, such as running, volunteering, and crafts. Doing this has kept me invested in school, but also in myself.