CCO Student Earns VSP Global Diversity Scholarship

Midwestern University optometry student William Wooley, is the latest recipient of the prestigious VSP Global Diversity Admissions Scholarship. This scholarship is made possible by VSP Vision, the nation's leading not-for-profit vision benefits company, dedicated to promoting health-focused vision care. William is pursuing a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) degree at the Chicago College of Optometry on the Downers Grove Campus of Midwestern University.

He is originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, and a graduate of Michigan State University's science-based residential college, Lyman Briggs College, where he earned a B.S. in cognitive neuroscience and served as the president of the Michigan State University Ballroom Dance Team for three years. "I aspire to become the first Dr. Wooley in my family, and my parents' unwavering support has been invaluable. However, this journey comes with a financial burden and the VSP Scholarship will enable me to afford quality education and support my well-being. I'm eager to work hard and embrace the challenges of my first year in optometry school, knowing that each hurdle will better prepare me to serve my community and the world," he said.

William's early fascination with optometry ignited his passion for the profession. “My motivation to pursue optometry stemmed from a personal experience when I was 14. It was becoming increasingly difficult to recognize my classmates in the hall, and I needed a vision solution. My optometrist at the time was my hero, allowing me to see clearly and fully harness my most valuable sense. From the moment I was able to see my mother’s face clearly from a distance, I was inspired to understand the medical mosaic known as the retina to correct vision and health concerns. Since then, my motivation has been continuously evolving and I aim to put the patient’s vision care needs first, and approach obstacles and challenges with the enthusiasm to overcome them. I will work hard to be a hero for my community and the world in whatever way I can.”

As he begins his studies, William is confident that his choice to attend Midwestern University aligns with his career aspirations and personal goals. “I decided to enroll at Midwestern University because of the abundant networking between healthcare fields, state-of-the-art equipment, and clinical excellence.”

The VSP Global Diversity Admissions Scholarship awards $10,000 annually to optometry students accepted at either the Chicago College of Optometry (CCO) or Arizona College of Optometry (AZCOPT), provided they belong to historically marginalized and underrepresented communities, as defined by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The scholarship underscores VSP’s longstanding commitment to supporting aspiring optometry students who demonstrate exceptional promise in the field. “Annual eye exams often reveal other health issues, like high blood pressure and diabetes. But being unable to see a doctor who looks like you and understands the types of challenges specific to your community is often a barrier to seeking this essential preventive care,” said VSP Vision Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer Marvin Davenport. “That’s why we believe diversifying the future of optometry is so important, and we’re excited to support first-year optometry students with this VSP Vision Diversity Admissions Scholarship.” 

The VSP Global Diversity Admissions Scholarship is one of several opportunities Midwestern University provides to students from diverse backgrounds.