Student Focus on Aidan Go

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Aidan Go
Pronouns: he/him/his
Hometown: Hopatcong, NJ
High School: Church Farm School
Undergraduate Institution: Bard College at Simon’s Rock
Undergraduate Degree: B.A. in Biochemistry
Anticipated #OSUopt Graduation Year: 2025

Q&A

How old were you when you received your first eye exam? What was the experience like for you?

The earliest I remember going to the optometrist was sometime in high school for an annual visit. As someone who doesn’t need glasses, I only remember the optometrist visits as “they check my eyes and everything becomes bright and blinding.” I also didn’t look forward to going because of the air puffs. Funny how things ended up. Now I get to make things bright and blinding for other people.

When did you realize that you wanted to pursue a career in optometry?

It wasn’t until my second gap year after undergrad that optometry hooked me in. At the time, I knew I wanted to do something medical-related, but didn’t feel strongly about any particular specialty. I mentioned this to my family optometrist and she offered to let me shadow her. From there, the conversations we had and the experiences at her office over the next few months made me realize that optometry is for me.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

Choosing Ohio State Optometry was a tough decision, not because I didn’t like the school, but rather it was difficult to say no to my OSU acceptance despite other factors and challenges. For example, Salus at the time was 30 minutes away from my house vs. a nine-hour relocation to Ohio. SUNY was closest to both my parents’ house and my girlfriend’s school, so of course they preferred I go there. I had even accepted and put a deposit down for SCCO, my top school (or so i thought). Fast-forward to Ohio State interview day – the passion, pride, and commitment to their students’ success was undeniable. This was something I felt coming from faculty and students alike. On top of having a great optometry program, their charisma stood out to me. I thought, “these are people I want to have on my journey to be an optometrist.” Throughout my first year, I was frequently reminded that I made the right choice coming to Ohio State.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

Everyone was friendly and easygoing. Like most new students, I was concerned with making friends or if classes would be competitive. Those concerns quickly went away in the first few weeks. My new classmates and I were all in the same boat so it was easy to get along. Once classes started, everyone was open to sharing notes and study tips. Very different than undergrad, in a good way.

What surprised you most about Ohio State and/or Columbus?

The Ohio State football scene is insane. The energy and excitement for game days are really fun. As someone who doesn’t know anything about football, I enjoyed going to games more than I thought I would.

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I’m mainly involved in AOSA, SVOSH, and sports vision club. I’m the optometry rep for the Asian American/Pacific Islander IPC affinity group. I also team up with my classmates for intramural soccer during the fall semester.

Who has most positively affected you during your time as an optometry student so far?

So many people helped me get through a tough first year, but I have to shout-out Jen Bennett. She helped me make the most out of my first year, and is generally a funny person to talk to.

What was your favorite part of your first year and what are you looking forward to in second year?

One of my favorite parts about first year was being surrounded by a bunch of people who can “nerd out” with me about eye stuff. If I went up to anyone else and started talking about the corneal abrasion I saw, they’d walk away. For second year, I’m excited to start learning more clinical skills. I can’t wait to have my family and friends come up and see me do doctor stuff.

How did you spend your summer between OPT I and OPT II year?

My summer was busy with classes for the graduate business minor and a lab research position for the OD/MS program. Outside of that, I tried to explore Columbus more and hang out with friends.

What advice do you have for the Class of 2026?

Be active and adventurous with your time at Ohio State. As Buckeyes, we get the perks of a small school with the opportunities of a big school. Try new things. Explore your interests whether its optometry-related or not. I guarantee there is someone who can – and is happy to – help you.