Courtesy Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

When Josue Puente was 7 years old, he found himself in the role of translator at his Spanish-speaking grandmother’s optometry appointments. It turned out to be a transformative moment.

“I remember vividly how the doctors helped her regain her vision, allowing her to see her family and continue her daily life,” he said. “That experience ignited my passion for eye care.”

About two decades later, Puente is on a path to becoming an optometrist — a career choice that is deeply rooted in his childhood experiences in Chicago. While growing up, Puente was acutely aware of the health care challenges faced by those around him, including his beloved abuela, and his Mexican heritage shaped both his aspirations and his commitment to serving underserved communities.

Now a second-year student at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionsin Provo, Puente has embarked on a mission to earn a degree and bridge health care disparities in his community.

“In my neighborhood, many people struggled with eye problems, often due to a lack of access to affordable care,” he said.

Courtesy Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

After completing his undergraduate studies in biology, Puente sought out optometry programs that aligned with his values. He discovered RMU during his application process and was drawn to its core principles of compassion and community-focused care.

“It was the newest optometry school in the nation, and their commitment to evidence-based medicine and genuine student support really appealed to me,” he said.

Since starting school in 2023, when RMU opened the first optometry school in Utah and the Intermountain West, Puente has thrived in an environment that prioritizes hands-on experience and patient care. At the Rocky Mountain University Eye Institute, which is part of the service-oriented RMU Health Clinics, he has the opportunity to engage with patients directly in multiple languages. He finds that role both fulfilling and transformative.

“We provide a range of services from routine eye exams to more complex cases,” he said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see patients’ eyes light up when they realize they can communicate with someone who speaks their language. I’ve had many Spanish-speaking patients express relief and gratitude that they can receive care in a language they understand.”

Puente’s commitment to his community extends beyond the walls of the clinic, which is located at the Timpanogos Tech Center. He envisions opening his own practice in Chicago, where, like RMU, he aims to offer pro bono services to those who cannot afford eye care.

“I want to be a familiar face in the community, someone people can turn to without fear,” he said. “I want to help break down the barriers that often prevent individuals from seeking the care they need.”

The importance of community health initiatives is not lost on Puente. He recognizes that many individuals, including in Hispanic communities, face cultural and financial obstacles when it comes to accessing health care.

“Fear and a lack of awareness can keep people from getting the care they need,” he said. “By offering services and creating a welcoming environment, we can empower individuals to prioritize their health.”

Puente has also participated in outreach programs, providing eye care to populations that are often overlooked, such as the homeless and refugees. These experiences have only reinforced his belief in the power of optometry to change lives.

“It’s humbling to help someone who has never had their eyesight checked before,” he said. “Knowing that I can contribute to improving their quality of life is an indescribable feeling.”

As he balances his studies with his aspirations, Puente has embraced the Utah lifestyle. He enjoys the beauty of the Wasatch Front mountains. He was previously familiar with the Beehive State, having visited family members who live here.

“It’s been a change from the cityscape,” he said, “but the sense of community here is amazing.”

Even so, Puente remains grounded in his roots. Sorry, Jazz fans, he’s holding on tight to his Chicago Bulls fandom.

Puente’s path reflects the profound impact that compassionate care can have on individuals and communities alike. Determined to overcome challenges, he’s embodying a commitment to serve and uplift those around him. As he learned during his admissions process, that’s the RMU way.

Puente credits the support he receives at Rocky Mountain University for being instrumental in his journey.

“The professors genuinely care about our success, both academically and personally,” he said. “Their mentorship has equipped me with the skills I need to be a compassionate provider. I feel prepared to make a difference in my community.”

Jody Genessy is the senior content writer for Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.