Student Focus on Emily Slywka

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Name: Emily Slywka
Pronouns: She/her
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
High School: Forest Hills Eastern High School
Undergraduate Institution: Xavier University
Undergraduate Degree: Biomedical Science
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?

The first eye exam I can remember was at age 14. I received my glasses to correct a small amount of astigmatism, and I felt like the way I looked at the world completely changed. This experience got me thinking about how much vision affects our lives and how much a difference proper care and correction can make.

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

I volunteered through a program in Cincinnati to assist a nurse practitioner who specializes in diabetic education. I noticed how she referred patients to the optometrist and was curious about why they would need their vision to be checked. This led me to research optometry and shadow the doctor she was referring patients to, and I realized the importance of eye exams in protecting one's overall health. I realized that ocular health is closely intertwined with systemic health and wellbeing, and that sold me on the career.

Why did you choose Ohio State Optometry?

Ohio State was my first optometry school interview, and it immediately felt like home. I was excited by the promise of a challenging but welcoming environment to learn in. I also appreciated the college's commitment to clinical research and opportunities to participate as students in the OD/MS program.

What was your first impression of Ohio State Optometry?

I immediately recognized that Ohio State is one of the best optometry schools in the country. There are high standards for students here, but it was also clear from the beginning that there is so much support within the school too.

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

I did not know how much Ohio State or the City of Columbus had to offer before I moved here. In the past three years, I have discovered tons of restaurants, coffee shops, hiking trails, and fun things to do in the city and the college. I also love being able to tailgate and become part of the broader Ohio State culture during football season. I never cared too much about football or sporting events before, but Epsilon Psi Epsilon (EYE) tailgates changed my mind.

Which clubs/organizations have you joined at Ohio State?

I am part of EYE, which has been the best way for me to bond with my classmates and have some fun outside of school. I am on the leadership boards of SAAO and Prismatic Effect Club, and I am a NOSA member.

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

The Ohio State Optometry faculty members who teach BV/PEDS curriculum have all made a positive impact on my time in optometry school. Dr. Heather Anderson's class introduced me to fundamental BV concepts and sparked my interest in that area of optometry. Since then, Dr. Ann Morrison, Dr. Ian Binns, Dr. Molly Papio, and many more instructors have guided my learning in this specialized area of optometry and have graciously given me career advice as well. My research advisor, Dr. Melissa Bailey, has also impacted my optometry experience by providing the opportunity and guidance needed to conduct clinical research. We have worked as a team to discover some exciting new findings, and I have really enjoyed the process of working with her.

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

The best part of optometry school by far is the people. I know I have made friends that I will have for life. We have had the opportunity to travel to meetings together, attend dances and events together, and of course study optometry and see patients together. It is an amazing experience to have gained a support system in Columbus and see each other through the ups and downs of this journey. I am looking forward to becoming a better clinician through my externships next year and seeing many pediatric patients, but I am sad to be moving away from my friends.

What advice do you have for future optometry students?

I think future optometry students should know that optometry school is something to be excited about and look forward to! There are challenges along the way, but the experience will change you for the better.