About Kwaj Eyes
Jackie Parrish (Summer 2024)
Jacqueline Parrish is currently a fourth-year optometry student attending the Arizona College of Optometry at Midwestern University in Glendale, AZ. In 2021, she graduated magna cum laude
from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Community Health Sciences and an emphasis in Public Health and Pre-Optometry.
Jacqueline’s optometry journey began in high school when she worked at a local private practice office, which piqued her interest in the field. During her pre-optometry path, she had the opportunity to serve on a mission trip in Rwanda as a Public Health Ambassador through her university. While in Africa, Jacqueline conducted simple vision screenings for school children and educated about the importance of eye health. Now in optometry school, she is the president of the Private Practice Club and a member of the Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society. Jacqueline’s current career passions include public health, private practice, and international optometric care in underserved communities in the U.S. and abroad. She is motivated to provide optimal care to patients and advocate for the field of optometry.
In her free time, you can find Jacqueline booking an international trip, relaxing by the pool, or hanging out with friends! Jacqueline was a competitive swimmer for 10 years and has an affinity for any body of water and exploring the ocean. She is always looking to make new friends, eat new food, and live life to the fullest.
Kassandra Phillips (Summer 2022 - Winter 2024)
Kassandra Phillips is a recent 2022 graduate from The College of Idaho. She graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science with a major in Biomedical Sciences and three minors in Spanish, Psychology, and Pre-Optometry.
Kassandra’s interest in eyecare began when she started developing her own eye vision problems during her middle school years which led to her to have frequent visits to her Optometrist. She always had a desire to be in healthcare but it after her first eye exam when she knew that Optometry was the career path she wanted to follow. Additionally, it was after a recent internship at Family Eyecare Specialists where Dr. Black worked, that she solidified her decision to attend Optometry school in the Fall of 2023.
Some of her hobbies and passions include social activities, traveling, spending time with her friends and family, and playing soccer. Kassandra began playing at the age of five after karate and gymnastics failed to keep her interest. She continued to play all throughout her schooling for both her school as well as competitively for many soccer clubs. Her career ended in the fall of 2021 after playing for four years on the women’s soccer team at The College of Idaho.