Student Focus on Catherine Wondra

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Catherine Wondra
Pronouns: she/her
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
High School: Ronald Wilson Reagan High School
Undergraduate Institution: Florida State University
Undergraduate Degree: Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences
Anticipated #OSUopt Graduation Year: 2028

Q&A

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

I was about four years old when I received my first eye exam. My mother had many issues with her eyes growing up, so she wanted mine checked at a young age. I remember getting my first pair of glasses in first grade and thought how amazing it was that I could actually see far away! I was so nervous to wear them to school and show my friends, but no one made fun of me, which was a relief. Some of my friends actually wanted glasses too! I was always excited to return since I knew my vision would improve after seeing my optometrist, and I loved picking out new frames!

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

Throughout my childhood, I envisioned myself becoming a dentist, drawn to the equipment and the profession's allure. However, during Christmas Break of my second year at Florida State University, I had the chance to observe a dentist for a day, and it was nothing like I had imagined. I felt disappointed and lost, realizing that dentistry wasn't the right path for me.

Feeling uncertain, I decided to shadow an optometrist the following week, which was a transformative experience. I was captivated by the profession and knew immediately that this was the direction I wanted to pursue. I began working at an optometrist's office that spring. The turning point came when I witnessed a young boy receive his first pair of glasses. The joy and excitement he felt were contagious, and it was in that moment I understood how truly rewarding this profession could be.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

I chose Ohio State Optometry because of its outstanding reputation and exceptionally high pass rates for the national board certification exams. I valued that the program would teach me to the highest level of scope, allowing me to become certified and practice wherever I choose after graduation. Many of the professors hold their OD degrees, which was important to me, as they can relate to the challenges of a rigorous course schedule. Additionally, the new clinic building is easily accessible to students and offers the opportunity for a diverse range of patient encounters before entering the fourth-year rotations.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

When I arrived for my interview, I was impressed with the level of professionalism of all the speakers that day. The professors emphasized how they view the students as future health care professionals and colleagues, which immediately impressed me. When touring the clinic, I heard the low-vision patients are seen on the first floor so they don't have to utilize the stairs or elevator. The large numbers on the recessed exam room doors and the high-contrast carpet allows these patients to exercise as much autonomy as they can upon arrival. I figured if they put this sort of considerable thought into the design of the building’s layout, they must truly care about the well-being of their patients and the success of their students.

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

Despite knowing the reputation of this school and the pride of OSU athletics fans, experiencing the enthusiasm of being a Buckeye fan at football games is nothing like watching it on TV. Going to Epsilon Psi Epsilon (EYE) tailgates helped me get to know my classmates and have fun on game days. (Oh, and I was shocked at how cold it is in Columbus!)

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I joined the Fellowship of Christian Optometrists (FCO) to participate in Bible studies with students from various years where we discuss our faith in the context of being optometry students. Through FCO, I have the opportunity to attend a medical mission trip to Jamaica over spring break, where I will assist with pre- and postoperative examinations for underserved patients.

The Private Practice Club focuses on the various options available to ODs who want to open their own practice, which has been my goal so far. Additionally, I’m interested in low vision care, so I attend Low Vision Club meetings, where guest speakers—including doctors from the low vision clinic, visually-impaired patients, and upperclassmen who have rotated through the clinic—share their experiences. These discussions have influenced my thinking about the design and layout of optometric practices, inspiring me to create environments where patients with diverse visual needs feel a sense of clarity and autonomy from the moment they arrive and throughout their exam. Lastly, I am in the process of rushing Epsilon Psi Epsilon (EYE) fraternity, which provides a sense of belonging for all optometry students to build a network with their future colleagues, offers guidance to others and develops leadership skills that we will take with us into our careers.

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

I have felt incredibly supported by my professors because they make you feel like your success is their success! They make themselves available outside of class time for additional questions and individualized assistance. Seeking out help also has allowed me to get to know them on a personal level. I appreciate how they enhance class content by explaining how it’s relevant for future patient interactions, which keeps me excited to keep learning!

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

My favorite part of optometry school so far has been meeting and learning alongside such a diverse group of classmates. I enjoy hearing about how the information we study in class directly translates into making a meaningful impact on the lives of our future patients. I'm eager to start working in the clinic and apply what I’ve learned in a hands-on setting to help others in a rewarding way!

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

I would encourage future students to be patient with themselves when setting expectations. It’s easy to feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed when switching your mindset from studying for academic performance to learning for future patient care. Your growth and effort are what truly matter, and your best should always be celebrated!