The journey from optician to optometrist is not a common one—but for Dr. Will To, also known as The Traveling OD, it has been a purposeful and passion-fueled evolution. In a compelling conversation with Dr. Adam Ramsey on the Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast, Dr. To shares how his early career in opticianry shaped his clinical mindset, how mentorship in optometry helped him avoid costly missteps, and how social media in optometry has amplified his impact and visibility as a young doctor.

As a Transitions Change Agent and social media influencer, Dr. To exemplifies how emerging ODs can balance the art of vision care with the business of branding, leadership, and networking. His story provides practical insights for eye care professionals navigating their journey, whether from the optical bench, the exam lane, or beyond.

From Optical Lens to Optometry School: A Unique Start

Dr. To’s first exposure to eye care wasn’t behind a phoropter—it was in the lab, cutting lenses and adjusting frames.

“I didn’t get into dental school,” he explained, “so I took a job at Walmart Vision Center.” That job soon turned into a certification, and he became an American Board of Opticianry (ABO)-certified optician. But his curiosity about the eye didn’t stop with frames.

Working closely with optometrists sparked his interest in clinical care. As he learned to understand prescriptions and ocular health beyond lens power, he realized: “I wanted to be the one writing the Rx.”

His journey from optician to optometrist gave him a hands-on understanding of the patient experience from start to finish—an advantage many traditional optometry students don’t have.

This real-world lens crafting background gave him unique insight into both the technical and interpersonal elements of eye care, forming a solid foundation for his clinical training.

Mentorship in Optometry: Lessons from the Journey

Throughout his career shift, Dr. To credits mentorship in optometry as one of the most transformative parts of his growth.

From early encouragement by a Walmart OD who noticed his potential, to more formal mentors during optometry school and externships, guidance played a major role in his professional development.

“Mentorship doesn’t always have to be formal. Sometimes it’s just someone ahead of you showing you what not to do.”

He also spoke about how his time working with mentors helped him avoid poor financial decisions—like opening a practice too early or not understanding student loan management.

Dr. To encourages young eye care professionals to actively seek mentors and to “learn from people who’ve done what you want to do, but also learn from those who’ve made mistakes you don’t want to repeat.”

This mindset helped shape his calculated approach to practice management and financial responsibility.

Mastering the Business Side Early

Even before graduating, Dr. To was studying the business of optometry—insurance models, real estate leases, practice acquisitions, and patient flow.

While clinical skills are a focus of school, he found that practice management wasn’t taught in depth.

“Understanding how practices make money, how to read a P&L, how to negotiate with landlords—these things matter,” he emphasized.

For aspiring owners or associates, Dr. To recommends:

• Reading books on practice management
• Following optometry business podcasts
• Connecting with doctors who’ve built successful practices

His early business acumen was also fueled by watching entrepreneurial-minded ODs in action—especially those who prescribe with purpose and lead their teams effectively.

Building a Brand: The Traveling OD

Dr. To’s alter ego, The Traveling OD, began as a way to document externships and educational events—but evolved into a full-fledged personal brand.

His smart use of social media in optometry—especially Instagram and LinkedIn—has connected him with peers, brands, and mentors.

“I started posting for fun, but realized that sharing my story helps other people realize what’s possible.”

He strategically highlights:

• Eyewear styling tips
• Travel experiences
• Optical insights
• Practice inspiration

This has made him a go-to voice for both aspiring optometrists and industry leaders looking to connect with the next generation.

His advice for other ODs entering social media: “Be authentic. Find your niche. You don’t need a million followers—you need to be consistent.”

Embracing Opportunities as a Transitions Change Agent

Today, Dr. To is part of the Transitions Optical Change Agent program—where he helps shape the conversation around modern lens technology and the lifestyle needs of patients.

This role allows him to stay engaged in both the clinical and consumer sides of eye care, while mentoring others through content, conversations, and collaborations.

For him, it’s not just about wearing cool glasses—it’s about bringing visibility to what it means to care for vision.

He leverages this platform to advocate for diverse career pathways, patient education, and innovative approaches to optical solutions.

Conclusion: The Power of a Non-Linear Path

Dr. Will To’s evolution from optician to optometrist demonstrates that non-linear paths can offer unexpected advantages. His technical beginnings, mentorship-fueled growth, business awareness, and social media savvy have uniquely positioned him for success in today’s dynamic eye care landscape.

As he continues to travel—both literally and figuratively—through the world of optometry, Dr. To remains a clear example that with the right guidance, vision, and voice, eye care professionals can shape their own definition of success.