Emily Platt, a second year optometry student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry became aware of the National Optometric Association (NOA) and the National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) through club interest meetings held by the university. When she became a member in the fall of 2021, a unique opportunity presented itself: a redesign of the NOSA logo.
ARTS AND HER CRAFT
Platt’s artistic eye has served her for many years before this opportunity. After receiving her undergraduate degree in interdisciplinary studies in business and art, she worked as a wedding photographer for several years.
“I always liked to do crafts, but I didn’t get into art classes until senior year of high school,” she says. “I had a friend in the class who saw some of the work I did for fun [and encouraged me], so I went for it.”
Platt credits her creative nature for her attention to detail that overflows into her professional and academic life, as well.
WHAT’S THE MEANING?
At a NOSA interest meeting, Platt learned that the UAB chapter had been invited to design the previous logo rebrand, and NOSA reps asked for UAB’s participation again.
The new logo she designed reads NOSA above the organizations mission, “Extending the vision.”
Platt got creative with the ‘O’ in NOSA, combining the looks of a globe and an iris.
“I did research on the best logos for nonprofits and found they use symbols to incorporate the letters of the organization,” she says. “What could represent optometry and diversity?”
POST-GRAD LIFE
The post-graduation world is Platt’s oyster.
“I’m excited to get out there and start practicing,” she says. “I’m excited that in our profession we get to do small things that have a big impact on the patient’s quality of life.”
