Diva of the week – Takeia Locke, O.D.
Dr. Takeia Locke, OD
Optometry Divas Ambassador, Atlanta, GA
The featured Diva of the week is Dr. Takeia Locke. Read the feature to learn why Takeia believes Optometry chose her!
1. Tell us a little bit about you
I was born in Washington, D.C and have lived all over the East Coast. I am married with four children. I don’t take myself too seriously but come across as a very serious person, probably because I am very goal oriented. I love dancing and singing with my children and traveling, something I hope to do more in the future.
2. What made you decide to become an Optometrist?
I always say Optometry chose me, I didn’t choose Optometry. I am fortunate to have followed my purpose driven path that was planted at the age 8 when I took an eye chart from my Dad’s office to use as a poster in myr oom. I hung it next to my Janet Jackson ‘Control’ poster at the foot of my bed. It fit perfectly.
Eight years later I found myself working at an Optometry office in my small town. Ever since, I was never able to leave the field. Even when I tried to pursue something different, I always would find myself right back in Optometry at some capacity. Like I said, Optometry chose me.
Eventhough, I was captivated by the profession, it wasn’t until Optometry School when I made a surprise discovery that I knew for sure that this path was for me. I’ve always had a passion for kids and eyes and I wanted to combine them somehow. When I discovered that I could pursue a specialty in Vision Therapy, I knew then for sure that my calling had found me. I’ve never looked back since!
3. What Optometry school did you go to?
Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry
4. Where do you currently practice?
5. Do you have any particular area(s) of focus?
Vision Therapy, Sports Vision, Special Populations, Myopia Control
6. Name 1 to 3 hurdles you faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
The biggest hurdle was entering Optometry school with very little support. There were so many obstacles that told me not to pursue my goal. However, I chose to listen to that inner voice and pushed forward to reach my goal. In doing so, I discovered that anything is possible.
The experiences leading up to the first day of Optometry school solidified that this was my dream come true and I could not dismiss my destiny because it was hard. I am grateful that I chose to listen to my inner voice even when faced with difficult challenges. Doing so helped build my confidence in my purpose. As a result, I have been able to overcome every other obstacle that followed.
7. If you could go back to when you were a student, what advice would you give yourself?
I worked hard as a student and may have missed out on some of the fun but I don’t regret it at all. I’m glad I was able to spend a considerable amount of time away from school to get to know myself and what I wanted after school.
Don’t get me wrong, I also enjoyed myself too. I traveled some and partied as much as I could. LOL! The key is, I said yes to every opportunity. As a result, many doors opened for me, I shadowed several Doctors and was able to participate in research, have a job sorting photos and event present at conferences.
I also took business classes and was even able to take a law class. I even bought my first condo on my own.
I would encourage all students, especially minorities, to explore anything that comes to mind and expose yourself to as many modes of practice to decide what’s right for you. Life after school moves quickly and I am glad I used my time wisely so that I can easily say “no” without hesitation when an opportunity does not fit my personality or goals.
How to Contact Dr. Takeia Locke
To connect with Dr. Locke, visit her website at FamilyEyeCareCenterofAtlanta.com and her social media link below:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FamilyEyeCareAtlanta
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familyicareatl/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/familyicareATL
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