Dr. Angela Croteau Marks '03

Twenty-three years ago, as a junior at Mount de Sales, I stepped into a classroom filled with seniors, one other junior, and a brand-new teacher, wondering what I had gotten myself into taking physics. We learned about matter, energy, forces, motion, and optics. I loved this math-based science and two years later, I enrolled at the University of Scranton as a Biophysics Major in the pre-med track. Fast forward two years and I knew healthcare was where I belonged, but not as a medical doctor. I considered different career options and landed on optometry - a career that would combine my love of math and science with my desire to help others.

I am often asked why I got into optometry. Initially, I struggled to answer that question. I enjoyed helping people and I wanted a career that would be meaningful, but one that would also allow for a good work-life balance. However, after reflection, I realized the seed was planted far earlier - back in physics, junior year at MDSA. That newbie teacher was Mr. Posner, and his love of physics changed my life and started me on my journey into optometry. Twenty-three years ago, Mr. Posner did not know what he was getting himself into at an all-girls Catholic high school, but his excitement for science influenced my thinking and helped to guide me down the road I now travel.

Today, I am a Senior Optometrist and the lead of Pediatric Services at Roberts Eyecare Associates in Vestal, NY. I currently serve on the New York State Optometric Association (NYSOA) as the Treasurer and am a past Regional Trustee and past Local Society President of the NYSOA. I also serve on the Board of the Catholic Schools of Broome County and am the PTO Co-President of All Saints School, where my children attend. Twenty-three years ago, Mr. Posner and I were both wondering what we had gotten ourselves into, and honestly, that is probably still the case. But I know he will keep helping students see the wonders of math and science, and I will keep helping children see the wonders all around – all we must do is open our eyes.