Student Focus on Liam Brescacin

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Liam Brescacin
Pronouns: He/His/Him
Hometown: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
High School: Korah Collegiate and Vocational School
Undergraduate Institution: University of Guelph
Undergraduate Degree: Biological Science
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 around nine years old and like many others, my first eye exam was due to the fact that I could not see the board at school. The experience was great. It was the first healthcare appointment I went to and actually enjoyed. From that point on I always looked forward to seeing my optometrist.

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

It was in high school after having a conversation with my long-time optometrist. Hearing him talk about how fulfilling his job was and how much he still enjoyed it after 30 years confirmed that optometry was my number one career choice.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

There were several reasons I chose Ohio State Optometry. My primary reason was because Ohio State provides the highest quality optometric education from some of the best doctors/professors in the country. The NBEO passage rates don’t lie. I also loved the that the class sizes are relatively small but the college is a part of a large university. You get the close-knit feel of a small school but have access to all the resources of a large university. It’s the best of both worlds! Last but not least was the tuition model here. Receiving in-state tuition for the final three years makes Ohio State one of the more affordable optometry schools in the nation.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

I can remember thinking how friendly and caring the faculty and staff are here. Everyone is so willing to help and wants you to be successful in the program. I believe their passion and involvement are a big part of what separates Ohio State from other optometry schools.

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

The environment of game days in the fall. There is just a level of excitement rushing through the city/ ampus that I have never experienced anywhere else. It has turned me in to a die-hard Ohio State football fan. Go Bucks!

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I am a proud member of Epsilon Psi Epsilon. It has been a such a great social outlet. Joining was one of the best decisions I’ve made since being here.

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

I would have to say my girlfriend and friends that I’ve made here. I’m really fortunate to be surrounded by such great people and their presence has had such a beneficial impact on me. Optometry school can be really challenging at times, but their support, encouragement, and companionship has made this experience better than I could’ve ever imagined.

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

Probably getting to use some of our equipment for the first time in Dr. Mutti’s optics lab. It was so cool being able to try skills that we discussed during class and witnessed while shadowing in clinic. I really look forward to performing our first eye exams in 2025!

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

Make sure you have balance in your life. You are going to spend a lot of time studying but you also have to make room for things that are not school related and important to you. Having that time away from school allows you to reset and perform better when you are doing schoolwork.