Student Focus on Daniel Corley

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Daniel Corley
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Elkins, WV
High School: Elkins High School
Undergraduate Institution: West Virginia University
Undergraduate Degree: Exercise Physiology
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 15 years old, I had just gotten my learner's permit and couldn’t see while driving at night. My first eye exam was amazing. I met Dr. Andrew Hunt who I ended up shadowing every time I got the chance. It is because of that first eye exam with Dr. Hunt that I am where I am today.

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

I was confident that optometry was for me after spending a few days in the office shadowing doctors.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

It was the only school that checked all of the boxes for me. Close to WV, check. Has a PA school close by for my fiancée, Nicole, Check. Great boards pass rate, check. The day I got into Ohio State was the day I canceled all of my other interviews.

Did you attend an admissions visit day with us?

If so, why would you recommend that others attend? Yes, not only do you get to learn all about the Buckeye Advantage and what you are trying to become a part of, but you also get to meet and talk to the faculty. These are the people who are going to facilitate your education and shape you into a future doctor.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

I knew that I was going to the best optometry school out there, so all Ohio State Optometry had to do was meet my expectations. Somehow, they exceeded them.

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

How easily accessible everything was. I grew up in a small town, so being less than 20 minutes away from anything you could ever want was extremely convenient to say the least.

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I am a member of the Private Practice Club, Sports Vision Club, Fellowship of Christian Optometrists, and I am also acting president of Epsilon Psi Epsilon (EΨE). EΨE is a huge part of the Buckeye Advantage. It’s the only optometric fraternity in the entire country and comes with a massive network of doctors nationwide. EΨE offers so much professionally, but it’s also about building community. I found myself connecting with alumni, faculty, and students from every class year, all in one place. Some of my closest friends in optometry school are people I met through EΨE events. Optometry school can be difficult, but having an organization like EΨE makes it a lot more enjoyable.

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

The person who has most positively affected me during my time as an optometry student is my fiancée, Nicole. She is my biggest support in all aspects of my life. Nicole is also in graduate school, studying to become a Physician Assistant, so she truly understands the challenges that come with pursuing a demanding degree. Going home to her and being able to talk about the good, the bad, and everything in between has been the key to my success.

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

I’ve really enjoyed the transition from didactic learning to patient care. Ohio State does an excellent job of getting students involved with patients early on, and as you move through the program, you find yourself gaining more hands-on experience each semester. I’m excited for externships and the opportunity to see even more sides of patient care.

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

Talk to people and make connections. The profession of optometry makes you realize just how small the world really is. You are often just a few phone calls away from anyone you need to get in touch with.