Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Kelsea Brown.
Hi Dr. Brown, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It all started back in high school in my hometown of Memphis, TN. At a very young age, I was extremely driven and always kept my education at the forefront of my life. I knew I wanted to combine my love of science with my passion for helping others. I later attended a summer Optometry program where I was able to learn more about the field. I had the opportunity to dissect a cow’s eye and discover its many intricate layers. This intrigued me so much that at that very moment, I knew that I wanted to dedicate my adult years to the field of Optometry. My love of science was solidified when I attended and obtained my Bachelor of Science degree from Xavier University of Louisiana. This institution served as a safe place with a nurturing community that ensured that I’d receive the best education possible. Fast forward to 2016, I was accepted into The Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, where I went through a rigorous four-year doctorate program. After dedicating numerous hours and energy to a challenging curriculum, I was able to obtain my degree and earn the title of Dr. Kelsea Brown.
Upon graduation and completing all three parts of national boards, I was eager to begin working in the field that I had become so passionate about. I then moved to Georgia to begin my career. Until this day, I am still in awe of what I have been able to achieve. But, I then think to myself, “I am exactly where God wants me to be.” “I am living in my purpose.” It brings me so much joy knowing that I chased after a dream that is now a reality. I wake up every day eager to go to work to take care of patients and educate them on the importance of receiving a comprehensive eye examination every year. Providing the gift of sight and seeing patients smile every day further solidifies that becoming an Optometrist is the right profession for me.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Not only is the goal important, but also the journey that comes along with it. I encountered a few challenges along the way to becoming Dr. Brown. Getting into Optometry school was not the easiest. Studying for the optometry admissions test (OAT) and getting a competitive score was quite difficult. I felt so defeated when I was told that I would need to take it over again in order to increase my chances of getting accepted. After taking the admissions test twice and not doing significantly better the second time around, my confidence was at an all-time low. Despite that small bump in the road, I still submitted my application. I was not going to let my test score define my abilities. I ultimately knew that my application was strong and that I had what it took to become an Optometrist. Several months had passed before I received an email stating that I had been accepted! I started packing my things immediately. My parents were so proud of me and acknowledged my perseverance. I was so excited to head to Pennsylvania to begin a new journey.
When school began, I knew that I would be a part of the African American minority, but I had no idea that we would only number 7 out of 160 students. This would be the first time in my life that I was not completely surrounded by people from my community. I initially struggled with self-doubt that stemmed from feeling out of place. Self-doubt can be extremely detrimental. It can be the voice in your head that keeps you from achieving your dreams. I found myself in a constant state of hesitancy, battling whether I felt I would succeed or fail. It wasn’t until I took a moment to re-evaluate my obstacles that I realized that my one major roadblock was none other than myself. Luckily, I was surrounded by supportive friends and family that constantly encouraged me throughout my journey.
For anyone struggling with self-doubt, especially those who look like me, always remember that there will be those who don’t believe in your abilities and those who judge you without knowing your story. Silence the doubt and amplify the voices of self-belief. Only in the midst of a challenge will you know what you’re made of.
We’ve been impressed with Eye Candy Accessories & Eyewear, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am not only an optometrist who practices in Atlanta, GA and specializes in primary care but also an entrepreneur. Eye Candy Accessories and Eyewear, LLC was founded in 2020. During my journey through Optometry school, I had the idea of combining my passion for eye care and my sense of style.
At Eye Candy, we aim to offer our customers a variety of the latest eye-inspired jewelry and eyewear. The interests of our customers is always a top priority for us, so we hope that you will enjoy our products as much as we enjoy making them available to you. Mentoring the youth is also very important to me. Over the past year, I have focused on sharing my knowledge of the field of optometry as less than 3% of African Americans are Optometrists. My goal is to continue to lead and be a voice for the often underrepresented black optometric community.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Books that I encourage others to read: The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz. Black Man in a White Coat by Damon Tweedy, M.D.
Contact Info:
- Email: eyedockelz@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.weareyecandy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelzbrown, https://www.instagram.com/wear_eyecandy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelsea.brown.9
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/KelzKB
Image Credits:
Omar King
