Student Focus on Gabby Jabboure

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Gabby Jabboure
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Hometown: Westlake, Ohio
High School: Magnificat High School
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Undergraduate Degree: Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
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 had my first eye exam when I was 11 after my teacher pointed out that I was squinting from the back of the classroom. I remember finding all the tests to be a lot of fun, and I was amazed by the optometrist’s ability to correct my vision in such a short amount of time. I was excited to get my first pair of glasses, and I couldn’t believe all the details in the world that I was able to see so clearly!

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

I realized I wanted to be an optometrist during my second year of undergrad. I knew I wanted to go into healthcare, but I wasn’t sure exactly which path I wanted to take. After shadowing an optometrist in my hometown, I was absolutely set! Not only did I love learning about the eyes, but I also loved how much time the optometrist got to spend with each patient. I was fascinated by how the eyes connect to the rest of the body, which also initially drew me to the field.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

Ohio State checked all my boxes for an optometry school. The brand new clinic and classroom spaces, excellent board passage rates, amazing faculty, and smaller class size were all drawing factors for me. During my interview, I already felt so welcomed into the Ohio State Optometry community, and I knew that I was in the right place. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to come here!

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

During my third year of undergrad, Dr. Earley presented to my university’s Pre-Optometry Club about the Buckeye Advantage. Not only did he fully convince me that optometrists have “the best job in the world” as he says, but it was also one of the first times that I learned all about what the program has to offer. I could immediately tell that I would have so many opportunities to succeed both in the classroom and in clinic, and I was impressed!

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

The small college feel surprised me the most. Having gone to OSU for undergrad, I never expected such a large university to feel so tight knit. With about 70 students in each class, I’ve gotten to know each of my peers and professors, which was not something I had experienced before. It has become what I love most about the program!

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I have joined the Private Practice Club, Ocular Disease Club, and Epsilon Psi Epsilon (EYE).

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

My classmates! I couldn’t get through school without them. I feel so grateful to be surrounded by such smart and compassionate people who are always willing to help each other succeed. The friendships I’ve made truly make OSU feel like home.

What was your favorite part of optometry school so far, and what are you looking forward to in future years of the program?

One of my favorite memories of optometry school so far has been rush week for the Epsilon Psi Epsilon (EYE) fraternity. I got to know my classmates more outside of school, and it was so much fun getting to be creative and work together on the activities. What I’m looking forward to most is learning clinical skills and performing exams on my friends and family during my second year!

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

Try to find a balance between school and self care. Classes are not easy, but I’ve learned that I can be a lot more productive when I set aside time to do things that I enjoy. There’s so much to do in Columbus, so make the most of your time and remember you don’t have to be a student 24/7!