The academic rigor that Tarah O’Neal ’17 experienced at Southwest Baptist University prepared her for both graduate school and her career as an optometrist.
Tarah graduated with a bachelor of science degree in biology and credits the SBU faculty for their support in all areas of her college experience.
“The academics were challenging enough that I was very well-prepared for my Optometry Admission Test (OAT) and the rigorous optometry program,” said Tarah, who earned her doctor of optometry degree from Northeastern State University of Oklahoma’s College of Optometry and now is an optometrist at Eyecare of Muskogee (Okla.)
“SBU faculty are top-notch. Everyone is invested in your academic and spiritual growth. From help with classwork to life advice, SBU faculty are there for you. Getting to know faculty at SBU allowed me to obtain letters of recommendation for scholarships and admission into optometry school.”
Tarah also excelled as a member of the Gordon & Judy Dutile Honors Program while a student at SBU.
“The Honors Program challenged me to become a critical thinker – a skill I use every day now – and gave my résumé a huge boost,” she said.
Tarah also met some of her lifelong friends while living in the dorms at SBU and was encouraged to grow in her Christian walk.
“I was raised in a Christian home, but attending SBU really solidified my personal faith and beliefs,” Tarah said. “There’s just something about SBU that brings you closer to God!
“At SBU, you are more than just a face or number. Everyone there is personally invested in your success, and that is not the case at many universities.”
And that private, liberal arts education was of great value to Tarah.
“With SBU academic scholarships, my education was less expensive than if I had attended a public university,” Tarah said. “The SBU college experience is second to none!
“I love SBU because it prepared me for my career and allowed me to make connections that will last a lifetime. If I could go back in time and do it all over, I wouldn’t go anywhere else!”