By Jennifer Sertl
Circle Optics’ Strategic Business Analyst, Rhea Koli, embarked on an insightful series titled “Decoding Optics.'” Her work captures the essence of how optics impacts not only technology but also the broader economic landscape, particularly in the Greater Rochester area. By distilling complex concepts into relatable insights, Rhea encourages broader community engagement in the optics vertical.
BREAKING BARRIERS AND BUILDING EXPERTISE WITH ANJALI BORIYA
Anjali Boriya, is a Financial Analyst at Nextcorp and an alum of Simon Business School. Our hope is that learning from her perspective can demonstrate that anyone, regardless of their background, can join and thrive in the optics industry. Boriya initially shared this apprehension, but once she entered the optics industry, she realized it overlaps with many others and offers transferable skills. The adaptability developed in one industry can serve as a gateway to another, making career transitions smoother than anticipated.
There’s often a fear among business students about entering niche fields like optics. Many prefer sectors like investment banking, where they can manage diverse portfolios and transition easily between industries.
FROM COMPLEXITY TO CLARITY WITH MOHAMMAD FARHAN EJAZ
Mohammad Farhan Ejaz, a rising senior at the University of Rochester from Long Island, New York, is pursuing a degree in optical engineering and set to graduate with the class of 2025. His choice of optical engineering was influenced by the university’s renowned emphasis on optics and its prestigious Institute of Optics, as well as the presence of companies like Eastman Kodak and his brother’s positive experience as a student there. Initially, Ejaz began his academic journey with a deep interest in physics, taking honors physics courses and introductory optics courses. Over time, he realized his true passion lay in practical applications, leading him to pivot towards optical engineering for its balance of theoretical knowledge and practical, industrial applications. Currently, Ejaz works at Boston Scientific in Maple Grove, Minnesota, where his role with lasers aligns closely with his studies, making it a perfect fit for his academic and professional interests. He strives to help others understand fundamental optics.
THE FUTURE OF IMAGING AT CIRCLE OPTICS WITH BENJAMIN MARGUILES
From the intriguing world of quantum entanglement to the innovative designs of camera lenses, optics shapes our everyday experiences. Circle Optics is at the forefront of these experiences. Benjamin Margulies is our Optical Engineering Intern from University of Rochester. He shares how Circle Optics is advancing the field of optics and how parallax plays an important role in it.
Marguiles’s interest in optics was sparked by a love for photography, which requires an understanding of light and how it can be manipulated to capture images. This interest naturally extended to a more formal study of optics. The desire to capture high-detail images led Marguiles to explore how light and imaging work. This passion guided Marguiles’s academic path at the University of Rochester, where he pursued both undergraduate and master’s degrees in optics.
Rochester, New York is Optics Expertise Mecca
The Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester: As one of the oldest and most prestigious optics programs in the world, The Institute of Optics plays a pivotal role in advancing research and education in optics, photonics, and imaging. It has produced numerous leaders in the field and continues to be a major hub for innovation and talent development in optics.
Luminate Accelerator: Luminate is the world’s largest startup accelerator focused on optics, photonics, and imaging. Based in Rochester, it provides funding, mentorship, and support to startups in these sectors, fostering innovation and helping to commercialize cutting-edge technologies. Luminate is a key player in strengthening Rochester’s position as a global center for optics and photonics.
New York Photonics: New York Photonics is a strong industry cluster and trade association representing over 150 companies and research institutions in the optics, photonics, and imaging sectors in the Rochester area. They promote growth, innovation, and collaboration within the industry, reinforcing Rochester’s status as a global leader in optics and photonics.
