Student Focus on Hannah Shroder

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Hannah Shroder
Pronouns: she/her
Hometown: Bellbrook, Ohio
High School: Bellbrook High School
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Undergraduate Degree: Kinesiology
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?

My father is an optometrist and also graduated from The Ohio State University! So, I was very young when I received my first eye exam. One of my first memories at my father's office was trying on neon pink glasses so I could finally see the board at school while making a fashion statement!

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

Growing up with a father and a great uncle as optometrists shaped my desire to work in the healthcare field. Initially, I wanted to forge my own path and shadowed many different healthcare professions. Later, after shadowing several successful doctors who were women within the optometry field, I realized this profession was meant for me because of their strong sense of community and passion for their patients. Their lifelong personal relationships with patients are something I desired, and I noticed this wasn't always the case for other healthcare fields. Also, the optometry field has so much to offer such as owning your own practice, subspecialties, academia, research, sales, and much more.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

Growing up around numerous Ohio State Optometry alumni, I had many opportunities to hear about the amazing learning experiences within the prestigious program as well as the lifelong bonds and memories made by fellow students. Affirming that sense of community, the alumni connections are something you can't find anywhere else. I wanted to be a part of this unique experience as it is an honor to represent Ohio State Optometry.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

During my in-person interview day, I had the chance to explore some of the newly built Hamilton Hall. I was pleased to see the student spaces were very welcoming and well thought out, so students could interact and study comfortably. It was exciting to speak to some of the legendary professors and meet some first-year students who all expressed their desire to create an environment for all students to succeed.

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

The incredible food!!! I have never seen so many restaurants in one city! Every few weeks, I make it a goal to try a new coffee shop or restaurant. My current favorite coffee shop is Stauff's, known to be the best study spot on campus! My favorite restaurant is Kitchen Social. (order the biscuits)

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I am a member of the Private Practice Club, Epsilon Psi Epsilon, and Beta Sigma Kappa. I love a challenge and the sales/marketing/business aspect of owning my own practice has always been of interest to me. Private Practice Club allowed me to explore the behind-the-scenes aspects of private practice as well as a chance to listen and receive advice from other private practice doctors. EYE is a professional optometry fraternity that has been pivotal to my experience and friendships at Ohio State because of the numerous events throughout the year focused on student interaction and of course, GAME DAY TAILGATES!! I am currently the Vice President of the Beta Sigma Kappa optometric honor society, and currently looking forward to hosting mock proficiencies for the upcoming classes.

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

This is an easy one, as my brother Sam is currently a fourth-year student. He has been my rock. I'm so blessed to be able to share these experiences and memories with him!

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

Starting clinical rotations has been both a fun and rewarding experience. Many would say I am a social butterfly. I love to connect and build new relationships with each patient. It’s also uplifting to significantly impact a patient's overall well-being in a positive way. I look forward to gaining more clinical experience and the opportunity to grow and learn as a doctor.

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

Treat everyone kindly because you never know what someone may be going through. Sometimes we are so focused on academics that we forget to live in the moment. So, make the most of it, work hard, enjoy the small things, and develop meaningful friendships as some will last a lifetime! #Buckeyesforever