Western Regional Conference
Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry
The AOSA Western Regional Conference is an annual event designed to enrich the academic journey of optometry students across the western United States.
Through a combination of engaging keynote presentations, interactive pop-up sessions, and a variety of professional and social networking opportunities, the conference fosters both educational growth and meaningful connections within the optometric community.
It serves as a dynamic platform for students to expand their knowledge, explore emerging topics in eye care, and build lasting relationships with peers, educators, and industry professionals. The AOSA Western Regional Conference brings together optometry students from across the western U.S. for a weekend of education, networking, and professional growth.This year’s conference will conclude with a celebratory yacht after-party exclusively for attending students.
We are excited to be hosting the AOSA Western Regional Conference at Berkeley this year! We can’t wait for you to experience all that this conference has to offer and enjoy the vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and unique charm of the Bay Area!
OUR TEAM
Ashley Robinson
AOSA Trustee
Hello everyone! My name is Ashley, and I’m a third year optometry student at UC Berkeley and your AOSA Trustee! I am from Los Alamitos, CA in Southern California and completed my BS in Molecular and Developmental Biology at UCLA before coming to UCB. Being a part of the AOSA has been an incredibly rewarding and worthwhile experience. I’ve learned the impact of our voices in advocacy and legislation, even as a student, and am inspired to stay involved in the AOA and to contribute to our optometric community in the future.
Our entire AOSA Board has been working very hard to put on a great conference for you all, and we can’t wait to welcome you to the Bay Area!
Fun fact I like to play basketball and taiko drumming in my free time!
Helen Wu
AOSA Trustee-Elect
Hello! I’m Helen, a second year optometry student. I am originally from Vancouver and completed my BSc in Pharmacology at the University of Alberta, followed by a Master’s in Occupational Health at University of British Columbia.
Before entering optometry, I worked as a policy and research analyst with government and health organizations, focusing on improving health policy. I’m excited to bring that experience into optometry and help advance the profession through advocacy and leadership. We're thrilled to be hosting the Western Regional Conference at Berkeley this year. I look forward to meeting everyone there!
Fun fact: I work at a cafe for fun and love baking and creating latte art!
Abigail Yun
Current Treasurer
Hi everyone! I’m Abby, a third-year OD student originally from Texas. I completed my BSc in Microbiology from UT Austin, where I also worked as a vision therapist in a specialty clinic.
This experience sparked my passion for exploring the broad scope of optometry and all that it has to offer. Moving to Berkeley was a big step in my career and has only deepened my dedication for education and clinical care. I’m committed to helping build an enriching student experience and supporting our journeys toward becoming successful doctors of optometry.
Fun fact: I enjoy playing pickleball and have participated in a few leagues back home!
Jennifer Yang
Treasurer-Elect
Hi! I’m Jennifer, a second year OD student from Richmond, CA. I earned my bachelors degree in Nutritional Sciences at UC Berkeley.
Prior to optometry school, I worked as an optometric technician and as a research apprentice. I look forward to joining the AOSA in shaping the future of optometry and advocating for student concerns within the broader community.
Fun fact: I love ducks, crocheting, and drinking milk tea.
Agenda
SEPTEMBER 20, 2025
9:00 - 9:30
Check in & Breakfast
International House
9:30 - 11:00
Morning Session
International House
11:30 - 12:30
AOA+ Leadership Link Lunch
Anna Head Alumnae
Hall
13:00 - 15:30
Pop-Up Session
Dwinelle Hall
InfantSEE Workshop (Room 145)
AOA Center for Independent Practice Panel (Room 88)
COA: From the Clinic to the Capitol &
OD and Student Advocacy for Optometry in CA (Room 219)
15:30 - 16:30
Exhibit Hall
International House
16:30 - 17:00
Closing Reception
International House
21:00 - 22:30
Yacht Student Social
Berkeley Marina
Who Can Attend
Any local Optometrists, optometry and pre-optometry students are welcome!
This is a great opportunity to meet fellow optometry students and to network with local doctors!
Sponsorship
YACHT SPONSOR
BREAK REFRESHMENTS
MORNING SESSION
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
MARKETING
Sponsor our event to connect with students and future optometrists from across the Western United States!
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at ashleyrobinson@berkeley.edu
Welcome to the Bay Area!
Explore
Activities
Welcome to the Bay Area! From scenic hikes and iconic landmarks to vibrant neighbourhoods and local culture, there’s so much to explore!
Golden Gate Park
A sprawling urban park home to museums like the California Academy of Sciences, gardens, and scenic trails.
Fisherman's Wharf
A lively waterfront destination known for its sea lions (Pier 39), shops, restaurants.
Ferry Ride
Enjoy a ferry ride across the bay with a beautiful view of the Bay Bridge! Goes from Oakland to Downtown SF (Ferry Building).
Berkeley Campanile
Berkeley’s iconic clocktower that rings every hour.
Botanical Garden Berkeley
Over 34 acres, nine major geographic regions, and over 10,000 kinds of plants to explore
Big C Hike
The Big C Hike is a short, steep trail with sweeping views of UC Berkeley and the Bay Area.
Local Favorites
The Bay Area serves up a delicious mix of bold flavours and local favourites. From trendy cafes to must try restaurants, there’s something tasty around every corner!
Imm Thai Street Food
Thai street eats, plus beer & wine, in a buzzing, casual spot with understated decor
2068 University Ave, Berkeley
Binge Coffee House
A student favourite serving delicious Vietnamese coffee and matcha and freshly made treats
2199 Bancroft Way, Berkeley
2528A Durant Ave, Berkeley
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
Grab and go pizza place with outdoor seating! Well known for their delicious pizza, large portions, and cheap prices
2590 Durant Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704
TPTea
A popular Taiwanese bubble tea chain known for its creamy milk teas and chewy pearls
2382 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley
Noodle Dynasty
Generous portions of noddle soups, lamb skewers, and other authentic Chinese dishes
2426 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley
Chicha San Chen
A Michelin tea shop offering high quality, freshly brewed teas with rich and complex flavours
2400A Bancroft Way, Berkeley,