by Caleb Jones
For Black History Month, the UAB School of Optometry profiled Black people who have made significant contributions to optometry and vision science. Dr. Rhea Magee, the first Black pediatric resident at UABSO, was recognized. Here, she discusses why she chose to complete her residency at the School, her passion for pediatric optometry, and what Black History Month means to her.
Where are you from?
I feel like I’m from many places; I don’t know that I can associate who I am with just one place. I was born in Edina, MN, lived in Denver, CO, then Lima, OH. With that being said, the majority of my childhood was spent in Lima, OH. Now, when I think of home, Oklahoma comes to mind because my parents moved there in 2014, and home will always be where my parents are.
Where did you receive your Doctor of Optometry degree?
I received my degree from SUNY College of Optometry in New York, NY. Here’s a fun fact: that is the only degree I have because I attended Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University in Boston, MA after being accepted into their 3+4 pre-optometry track program. This program allowed me to fulfill all of the prerequisites to enter optometry school after three years of undergraduate studies.
What brought you to UABSO for your residency?
UABSO’s pediatric optometry residency is one of the best in the country. The program provides a wide variety of clinics and a large number of patients to see. It consists of a unique residency experience that includes the UAB pediatric clinic, vision therapy, Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, and working with pediatric aphakic patients, to list a few. I know I am gaining an abundance of experience and education that is molding me into an amazing pediatric optometrist. In addition, my personality meshed well with my supervisor, Dr. Katherine Weise, from the moment I met her. I knew I would love working with her, and it would enhance my residency experience. To date, my expectations have been surpassed. All of the pediatric doctors at UABSO are outstanding in their clinical ability, knowledge and care. I could go on, but the last thing I will mention is the patient population. Many of the patients are Black, and working with this population is very important to me.
Why did you choose a pediatric residency?
It was my plan to complete a residency since entering optometry school. My mother mentioned I should think about working with children, but I was so focused on the rigors of school that I didn’t address it at the time. During my second year, I was able to observe in the pediatric clinic at SUNY, and something sparked in me. This specialty seemed like a great fit because I knew it would be enjoyable, challenging and rewarding. Working with pediatric patients is a way for me to expose children, specifically children of color, to what their future could look like.
I know first hand that it is hard to visualize yourself in a role that you have never seen. The first Black optometrist I ever met was during my interview for UABSO’s Class of 2021; I was 19 years old. It was Dr. Simon. When I met him, it made me smile. I thought that he was amazing, and I still do. Then, right after speaking with him, I was interviewed by Dr. Sims. It was shocking to meet two Black optometrists in the same day. I was elated, but a part of me was sad that it took so many years. It was a defining moment, reassuring me that I would become an optometrist, eliminating any doubt I had at the time. I would think back to that day often whenever challenges arose to remind myself I could do it too. Even meeting them, I never dreamed that I would be the first Black Pediatric Optometry Resident in UAB history!
What are your goals for after residency?
A long term goal of mine is to be considered one of the best, if not the best, pediatric optometrist. I see myself working at a group practice, while being a part time clinical instructor at an optometry school. Short term, I plan to continue working with pediatric patients at an academic institution. Lastly, I plan to become a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. I am excited to see what my future holds.
Is there anything you would like to add?
Black History Month is not just a celebration of past and present accomplishments; it is also a celebration of what can be. I know that children are our future, so it is important for them to have role models like me so they can see that future through a clearer lens. I am honored and blessed to be the first Black Pediatric Optometry Resident at UABSO, and I could not have asked for a more rewarding experience.