Student Focus on Amy Ngo

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Amy Ngo
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Bowling Green, KY
High School: Greenwood High School
Undergraduate Institution: University of Kentucky
Undergraduate Degree: B.S. Biology and Minor in Health Advocacy
Anticipated #OSUopt Graduation Year: 2027

Q&A

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

I was just four years old when I had my first eye exam and got my very first pair of pink wire-framed glasses. My mom still talks about how much fun I had with the eye doctor. I was so active and curious, and after that, I started to really appreciate how something as simple as a pair of glasses could make such a big difference in someone's life.

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

I didn’t realize I wanted to pursue optometry until I took a service trip to Honduras for two weeks. While there, I helped provide eye care to people who had never had access to it before. Seeing how something as simple as an eye exam could restore someone's ability to care for their family or go back to the things they loved made me realize this was the career I wanted. But what really struck me was how optometry is about more than just providing care—it’s about forming connections and building lasting relationships with people.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

When I started looking at optometry schools, I knew I wanted to find a place where I would feel at home. I was looking for a school that was inclusive and supportive, and The Ohio State University College of Optometry really stood out. The staff and faculty are incredibly welcoming, and what I love most is the school’s culture of collaboration. The admissions team doesn’t just look for high achievers—they look for students who work well with others and are genuinely passionate about the field.

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

What really surprised me about Ohio State and Columbus is how it feels both big and small at the same time. The city has this great balance of urban and suburban areas, so there’s always something new to explore, but it still feels like a close-knit community. There’s always something happening, whether it’s a cultural event, a new restaurant to try, or a park to explore. It’s the perfect place to grow both as a student and as a person.

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

At OSU, I’ve had the chance to take on leadership roles that have helped me grow even more. I’m currently serving as president-elect for the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), president and co-founder of Cultural Lenses, a senator on the OSU Interprofessional Council, member for the OSU Commencement Speaker Selection Committee, and a member of the Epsilon Psi Epsilon society and the Student American Optometric Association (SAAO). These opportunities have allowed me to connect with amazing people, advocate for my peers, and get more involved in the future of optometry.

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

I’ve also been lucky to have incredible mentors, like Dr. Greg Nixon and Dr. Elizabeth Muckley. They’re both leaders in the Ohio Optometric Association and have been huge influences on my education. They’ve taught me the importance of advocating for the profession and protecting our ability to practice at the highest level. They’ve also been instrumental in helping me develop a passion for legislative work and advocacy, something I hope to continue throughout my career.

But what I love most about optometry school is the community I’ve found with my classmates. The Class of 2027 has become like family. We look out for each other, help each other through the tough times, and celebrate each other’s successes. I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and encouragement of my friends here.

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

For anyone thinking about pursuing optometry, my biggest piece of advice is to stay curious. Take advantage of all the resources and opportunities around you. Remember why you chose this field in the first place, especially when things get tough. Optometry school can be challenging, and burnout is real. But when you take time to recharge and reconnect with why you started this journey, it makes all the difference. For me, volunteering on weekends to provide eye exams during my first two years was a game-changer. Even though I wasn’t yet in clinic full-time, seeing the impact of those exams on patients’ lives helped me stay motivated and reminded me of the meaningful work we do.