Three graduates of the Illinois College of Optometry—Sarah Manongdo-Joya, OD; Mary Fazelian, OD; and Rachana Patel Carrizales, OD—didn’t start off as close friends. In fact, during school, they barely knew each other, even though they had all been at Loyola University Chicago for undergrad, as well. But years after earning their degrees, their careers and shared experiences brought them together, transforming them into not just colleagues, but a support system that has carried them through major life and career transitions.
STARTING OUT
Dr. Manongdo-Joya was the first to settle into a long-term position. Straight out of school in 2005, she joined America’s Best in Chicago, the only solid corporate option in the area at the time. “They were so warm and welcoming,” she recalls. The recruiting process was led by area doctors, which made a lasting impression. She quickly put down roots, staying with the company and in Chicago, the city she had called home since she was 12. As time passed, she found herself in a position to help others find their footing in optometry—something that would soon include her future close friends.
Dr. Fazelian, on the other hand, initially took a different path. After graduation, she moved west to Portland, drawn by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. She worked in private practice for five years before feeling the pull of home. Missing her family and a growing realization that private practice wasn’t the right fit led her back to Chicago. But she returned without a job lined up, uncertain of her next steps. A casual Facebook message to Dr. Manongdo-Joya changed that.
“I didn’t know her well, but I remembered she was nice,” Dr. Fazelian says. She reached out, asking about America’s Best and whether Dr. Manongdo-Joya had any insights. Dr. Manongdo-Joya not only responded but guided Dr. Fazelian through the process, connecting her with the right people. A shared love of food led to a cupcake meet-up, and soon after, Dr. Fazelian joined the company. Over a decade later, she’s still there, now a clinical preceptor mentoring optometry students in their final rotations.
Dr. Patel Carrizales had yet another journey. After graduation, she followed her husband’s career to Kentucky. She moved frequently, picking up work where she could, and eventually reached out to Dr. Manongdo-Joya with the same question Dr. Fazelian had asked: What’s National Vision like? The appeal was immediate—job security, the ability to relocate with ease and a strong support network. She signed on, transferring between locations as her family moved, but always finding a professional home within the National Vision Doctor of Optometry network.
The three women found themselves drawn back to Chicago, and it was during CE courses and professional events that they reconnected in a more meaningful way. Those moments evolved into deeper friendships, with regular check-ins about work, life and everything in between. Now, their careers have taken them in unique directions, all in affiliation with National Vision, but their bond remains stronger than ever.
Dr. Manongdo-Joya moved into recruiting full-time, helping doctors find their footing, much as she had done for her friends. “I love being able to connect people to the right opportunities,” she says. “It feels full circle.”
Dr. Fazelian, as a clinical preceptor, is shaping the next generation of optometrists. She finds fulfillment in mentoring students, providing guidance and reassurance as they navigate their final year before entering the workforce.
Dr. Patel Carrizales is a lead doctor for Access Eyecare Services, providing remote care services to patients in need, a role that has reinvigorated her passion for optometry. “Remote care has opened up so many doors,” she says. “It’s given me a new perspective on patient care and accessibility.”
Beyond their careers, their friendship has become an essential part of their lives. They celebrate milestones together, share struggles and lift each other up when challenges arise. Whether it’s a quick text for advice or a deep conversation over dinner, they know they can count on each other.
“We didn’t start off in the same circles,” Dr. Patel Carrizales says, “but now, I can’t imagine my career without them.”
“These twenty years since optometry school graduation have flown by in good company,” says Dr. Manongdo-Joya. “Here’s to twenty more.”
Their story is one of career evolution, mentorship and the unexpected friendships that can emerge in the professional world. From classmates to colleagues to a true work family, these three doctors found that the right connections can shape not just a career, but strong friendships and support.
