Student Focus on Stephanie George

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Stephanie George
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Dublin, Ohio
High School: Dublin Jerome
Undergraduate Institution: University of Pittsburgh
Undergraduate Degree: Biological Sciences
Anticipated #OSUopt Graduation Year: 2024

Q&A

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

I don't remember exactly and neither do my parents, but I know I enjoyed seeing my optometrist as a child because I always played fun games when I was there and never had anything prick my skin.

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

I was in high school when I decided I wanted to pursue optometry. I endured a couple of minor eye injuries at the time that caused me to see my optometrist almost every week, so I became pretty close with her and loved the work environment. Establishing a more personal connection with my optometrist showed me that I could be a primary care physician who genuinely knows and cares about their patients -- and the patients reciprocate that feeling.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

During my interview, I could feel how much the faculty cared about the success of their students. I felt like I was being invested in and that everyone wanted me to succeed. I knew that if I came here, I would become a part of a community that I belonged in. It felt right.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

I first toured Ohio State Optometry before I even started touring colleges for undergrad, so I was blown away by the curriculum, extracurriculars, and everything in between. It seemed so distant at the time, so it's still hard for me to believe that I'm exactly where I wanted to end up!

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

While interviewing, I was told that Ohio State Optometry feels like a small community with the perks of a large university -- and it's true! I'm not overwhelmed by Ohio State’s large campus because we don't have to travel around campus to get to each class. Everyone in your class knows each other, which is so nice, and you also have the benefit of having an amazing football team to cheer on in the fall!

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I'm involved in Student Council (co-president), Optometry Ambassadors (VP), NOSA, AOSA, and EYE. I am also in the combined master's program!

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

My master's advisors, Dr. Chandler and Dr. Plageman have been valuable mentors to me and taught me a lot since I started here. They're very real with me and keep things in perspective when I'm having a bad day, whether it's school or research related. It's comforting to know I have professors I can turn to for advice and know they have my best interest in mind.

What was your favorite part of optometry school so far and what are you looking forward to in third year?

Seeing all of my classmates in person for the first time at the beginning of our second year was my favorite moment. We were the first fully online incoming class, so I hadn't met some of my classmates in-person until our second year. I'm looking forward to interacting with more patients during my third year and honing my clinical skills. I've already met really interesting patients and I haven't even been in clinic for that long!

What advice do you have for the Class of 2026 as they start their Ohio State Optometry journey?

Studying efficiently is so much more effective than studying more. Given the heavy didactic load first year, it's easy to get wrapped up into studying all the time. Give yourself some grace and allow yourself to take breaks!