We made a short video asking Dr. Smith a few things about himself so you can get to know him. If you have any other questions you want answered, leave a comment on our facebook page. Ask anything…seriously.
Where did you attend school?
I went to Southern California College of Optometry. For undergrad, I went to the University of Utah…for under-under-grad I went to College of Eastern Utah.
What made you decide to go into Optometry?
I changed my major a few different times. I wanted to go into optometry because I enjoyed working as an optician during my undergrad. I loved it so much. Initially I was planning on going into computer science. I was sitting there programming one night in a computer lab all by myself and decided that wasn’t the best route to go.
What brought you to St. George?
We decided to move to St. Geoge because there was a job posting here about 5.5 years ago. We thought to ourselves, what an awesome way to get back into Utah since we were living out of state at the time. We figured that St. George was our most favorite spot in Utah so we took the job and I have been working here ever since.
What is your favorite thing about Optometry?
My favorite thing about optometry is sort of a selfish reason…people walk in the door and walk out seeing way better. They are instantly gratified. Plus, I get to take care of one of the most precious sences…and that’s eye sight.
What are you most excited about having your own office?
Having more access to the office and being able to treat people how and when I want. To take better care of patients and give them the best eye exam they have ever had…that’s my goal!
What are you most scared of in regards to the busineess?
Obviously opening any business you hope you are giong to get some people through the door. That brings a bit of nervousness and anticipation. We feel like we have a good locatioin where we will be noticed. In this area, we have found out that word spreads best from one person to another. We hope that you will be able to let other people know that we are here!
How old are you….you look so young!
I am very young…I’m 16. No… I’m kidding. haha. I am 38 years old…38!
How did you meet your wife?
I met my wife Shonee when we were next door neighbors living in Price Utah.
How long have you been married?
Shonee and I have been married for….I should know this super quick right off the top of my head, going on 13 years. In March! Feels like it has gone by way fast.
How many kids do you have?
Shonee and I have two girls 1 and 4. We had to wait a long time to have kids. If any of you are following along with Shonee’s personal blog you can read the whole infertility story there. That is another exciting part of our lives.
Give us a dry eye tip!
Living in Southern Utah there is a lot of dryness. The best time to use artificial tears is before you do something that influences dry eyes. Before you get in front of that computer, before you get in your car to drive with that heater or ac blowing on your eyes, before you go to bed at night especially if you sleep under a ceiling fan..nobody does that, right! Put a drop in each eye. They are best used to prevent dryness rather than fix the problem that’s already started. Once it’s started the comfort is about 30 seconds. Some of my favorite brands are Systain, Refresh, and Blink. You can find those in any over the counter pharmacy type store.
If you have a question for Dr. Smith. Add a question on our facebook page and we will answer it in an upcoming video!