Student Focus on Ana Schroeder

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Ana Schroeder
Pronouns: She/Her
Hometown: New Albany, Ohio
High School: New Albany High School
Undergraduate Institution: Otterbein University
Undergraduate Degree: BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB)
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?

I received my first eye exam at 15. The optometrists and staff were enthusiastic and welcoming. My experience was so great that the optometrist invited me to shadow them that upcoming summer!

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

After my first summer working at Berk Eye Care Center (BECC), I was certain I wanted to be an optometrist. Aside from the doctors’ positive attitudes and the seamless work-life balance, the doctors really knew their patients on a personal level, and I felt as though the doctors were really part of their community.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

Aside from being a BIG10 school in my back yard, Ohio State is a top program that offers small class sizes of ~70 students. Coming from a small undergrad university myself, I knew just how influential small classes are on your ability to grapple with difficult material. With small class sizes, you will become friends with your professors and everyone in your class, and that support system will become the backbone to your success along this difficult journey.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

As a sophomore in undergrad, I attended Ohio State’s Optometry Admissions Visit Day. I was amazed with what the program had to offer, including ample patient experience, professor-to-student ratio, professors who are experts in their field, and a new clinic on the way.

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

You will always find somebody who is down to do something. You could go all year never having done anything alone because everybody here always wants to help out or join in on whatever is going on. I could hardly keep up!

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I am part of the National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) and American Optometric Student Association (AOSA). I wanted to ensure I was academically secure before joining in all the clubs, but I definitely plan to get more involved this next year!

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

Jen Bennett, our Director of Student Services. I was always able to consult her when I was at a crossroads, and she always managed to put me back on my feet.

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

My favorite part of first year was Buckeye Launch, which was the week before classes started. Buckeye Launch broke down everybody’s walls and made my class really close. Additionally, it made me feel more comfortable to approach our professors. This next year, I am most looking forward to being able to give my friends and family members eye exams!!

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

After a short vacation, I was excited to shadow an optometrist who is an Otterbein alumnus, Dr. Jeffrey Myers. I met Dr. Myers at the spring scholarship dinner where we were “coincidentally” seated at the same table. I won’t get into it here, but he has done quite some cool things as an Ohio State Optometry alumnus. I then continued to work at BECC as a technician, where I performed preliminary and post-exam testing. I learned additional optical skills during the summer, including adjusting glasses and managing the frame gallery.