Student Focus on Ainsley Link

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Ainsley Link
Pronouns: She/her
Hometown: Bridgeville, Pennsylvania
High School: Canon-McMillan High School
Undergraduate Institution: The University of Alabama
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science in Biology
Anticipated #OSUopt Graduation Year: 2029

Q&A

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

Although I can’t remember my first eye exam, I have been going to the eye doctor for as long as I can remember. I went to two amazing docs from elementary through high school, and when I began considering optometry, I got to shadow both of them. Without their influence, I would not have landed on optometry as a career path, and I am extremely grateful for everything I was able to learn from them.

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

I was a junior in college when I realized I wanted to pursue a career in optometry. I was originally on a pre-med track, but I never felt particularly inspired by any of the different types of specialties I shadowed. That year, when I went home and had my annual eye exam, my doctor invited me to spend some time shadowing in the office with him. I ended up loving the experience, especially the way that he had such great relationships with his patients, and it opened my eyes to seeing myself in that role.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

There are a multitude of reasons I chose Ohio State Optometry, but the faculty and the board pass rates of previous years are definitely at the top of the list. When I interviewed here, I could immediately tell that the faculty were passionate and more than qualified to teach, and it made me look forward to the years of school ahead. Looking at the college’s pass rates and imagining learning under the professors here, I knew that Ohio State Optometry would allow me to feel confident and qualified as a clinician by the time I graduate.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

I had a great first impression of Ohio State Optometry because they set you up with a support system before you even get to campus. Before first year, they assign you a “Big Sibling” who is a year above you in the program. My big, Sophie, and her big, Carly, were immediately so welcoming and helpful when I was figuring out my first semester. It has been so nice to know I always have them supporting me, and that they can relate to what I am experiencing as I move through the program.

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

For me, the most surprising thing about Ohio State was the size of the campus. I knew ahead of time that Ohio State was a huge school, but I was still amazed at how far the campus reaches. Not to mention, the campus here is gorgeous and has a ton of places to study or just hang out with friends!

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I currently serve as president-elect for the American Optometric Student Association and fundraising chair-elect for Student Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity. Additionally, I am a member of the Epsilon Psi Epsilon fraternity of optometry and the National Optometric Student Association.

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

Dr. Rebecca Deffler has had the most positive impact on my time here so far. I participated in the T35 summer research program, and Dr. Deffler served as my advisor and mentor for that project. I have already learned so much working with her, and I look forward to continuing to do so as I work toward my master’s degree in vision science. It has been extremely rewarding to work under someone as inspiring as Dr. Deffler.

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 was definitely the day we received our white coats at the end of our first year. It was one of the most special events I have been a part of, and I was so blessed to get to watch my best friends in the program get their coats too. I'm very excited to move into the clinical side of the program and eventually see patients. The close relationship that optometrists have with their patients was one of the biggest reasons I chose optometry, so I look forward to experiencing that myself.

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

I would say my biggest piece of advice for future students is to take advantage of opportunities outside of the classroom. Although studying can feel like all you have time for, I feel that it’s extremely beneficial to spend time attending guest lectures and club or service events that we have at the college. These are a great way to take a break from studying while still learning and getting close with your optometric community. Most of all, though, I think they help to give you a glimpse of what you get to look forward to and what you are working so hard for.