As the founder of the popular optometric community known as the Young ODs of America, Justin Bazan, O.D., has a lot of supporters.

But one of his biggest advocates? Girlfriend Miriam Korik, O.D., who, when asked who her eyecare hero is, shared, “As cheesy as it sounds, I would say it’s Justin. We met in 2020, and that was my graduation year that had my in-person rotations for optometry school cut short. So, I started observing patient care in his office and that really helped my confidence in my own clinical skills as well as made me realize that I would like to be a business owner, too.”

Here, the dynamic optometric duo of Park Slope Eye in Brooklyn share their inspirations and advice.

Most distinctive characteristic?

Tenacity. I stay with problems longer than most people. I’ll figure it out and get it done. —J.B.

Most likely to splurge on:

Vacations, travel, food, concerts. Experiences over possessions, always. —M.K.

Best activity to find calm?

I’m not a huge fan of calm. I have to make a focused effort to bring more of it into my life. I’ve been practicing regular mindfulness meditation for over a decade now. —J.B.

Greatest advice to fellow O.D.s?

My fellow new grads, it’s OK to start off with multiple part-time jobs or have a few fill-in days. You don’t need to feel like your first office is necessarily your dream job. —M.K.

Most rewarding professional accomplishment?

Young ODs of America. We have a community of incredible people who are helping each other reach their goals while having fun doing it. —J.B.

Greatest source of inspiration?

My parents came to this country as refugees from the former Soviet Union when they were teenagers. They worked so hard to be able to give me a life of opportunity where I am fortunate enough to be following my dreams and making a difference. —M.K.

Pivot during Covid-19?

Covid made me hit the pause button and take stock of things. A simple (yet major) revelation became apparent: Life is yours to make it how you want it. For example, not being able to travel hurt my soul. Now I travel for three months and work for three months on repeat. —J.B.

Looking forward to in eye care?

The integration of technology to be able to provide remote eye care that is up to standard with routine, in-person care. —M.K.