Student Focus on William Stewart

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: William Stewart
Pronouns: he/him
Hometown: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
High School: Colonel Gray High School
Undergraduate Institution: University of Prince Edward Island
Undergraduate Degree: Biology and Accounting
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 honestly can’t even remember my first eye exam. I just know that I always looked forward to going in and it was always a great experience.

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

I came to the decision a little later than most people did. I had spent two years working in auditing for the Canadian Government, and I quickly realized it wasn’t for me and started searching for other opportunities that would allow me to interact with people and have an impact on their lives.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

I had always heard of Ohio State, but growing up in Eastern Canada, it sort of seemed like a far-fetched idea to ever attend a major American university. Once I started researching optometry and saw that not only did Ohio State have an optometry program but also had the top NBEO pass rates in the country and brand-new facilities. It seemed like a no-brainer. It was already my top choice of schools when the admissions staff told me I would also get in-state tuition after my first year; this was the cherry on top.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

My first impression of the program was that it seems to be incredibly well run, and that professors clearly put in a lot of effort to collaborate to make material overlap and build on each other across different classes. I think this is part of what makes Ohio State students so successful.

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

I always had heard that Ohio State was a massive school and that Columbus was a big city, but it truly gives off a small-town feel. It always seems so quiet (except on game day), and I wonder where all the people are.

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

So far, I have been to Private Practice Club and Ocular Disease Club, but I plan on going to more this upcoming semester.

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

I think the other students in the class have had the most positive impact on me as a student. Seeing how hard everyone works pushes me to try to keep up. It is inspiring to see how much effort they all put in. I also have to give a lot of credit to my girlfriend, who moved here from Canada and has been supporting me through the journey. Going back to school after a few years off was not an easy decision and she pushed me to take the leap.

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

My favourite part so far has been the feeling after each set of midterms and exams, knowing that you put in a lot of effort and that it’s paying off. I am really looking forward to continuing the hard work and also getting into the clinic to see patients for the first time.

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

Optometry school is a lot of hard work, but it is worth it. It is important to start off strong and settle into a good routine early. Don’t forget to find some balance outside of school, whatever that might be for you. Go Buckeyes!