How I Got Into Optometry School | My Pre-Optometry Journey

We all have moments that shape our path. Subtle nudges, unexpected detours, and signs that force us to pause, pivot, and grow. For me, my journey into optometry wasn’t linear. It was filled with self-reflection, a few humbling academic experiences, and a pivotal presentation that changed everything.

This post is for anyone navigating their own optometric journey, whether you’re a high school student thinking about eye care, a pre-optometry college student, or even an OD looking back at how it all started.

A Little About Me

I grew up as the youngest of four in a household full of strong, supportive women: my mom and three older sisters. From an early age, I gravitated toward math and science, and I distinctly remember telling my parents in high school, “I want to be a doctor.” That idea stuck, and like many of you, it became the center of conversations and aspirations during those formative years.

Struggling with Standardized Tests

Despite doing well in school, standardized tests didn’t come naturally to me. My ACT score initially came back in the high teens, a number I remember vividly. After some tutoring, I improved into the low to mid 20s, but it became clear that timed tests weren’t my strength. I took that realization with me into college.

At Michigan State University, I started as a business major with a pre-med focus. My early college years were a wake-up call. First semester ended with a 2.9 GPA. For someone who cruised through high school, that hit hard. But the setback motivated me. I adjusted my study habits, learned how to truly learn, and bounced back with a 4.0 the next semester.

The Dermatologist Who Changed My Trajectory

The summer after freshman year, I began shadowing physicians. First, a general practitioner. Then a dermatologist, who, despite being in his mid-30s, shared regret about missing out on life while pursuing his medical career. That moment hit me like a sign from above. I began rethinking everything.

A Rainy Night That Changed My Life

Enter Allen Bartholomew, a fellow MSU student living down the dorm hallway. He invited me to a pre-optometry club meeting. That rainy evening, Dr. Mark Colip, now President of the Illinois College of Optometry, gave a presentation that completely reframed what optometry could be.

He spoke about:

The immediate impact of improving someone’s vision care needs
The preventative role we play in identifying serious health conditions
The flexibility and work-life balance of the profession
The variety of career paths available within optometry

I walked out of that meeting thinking, I’m in. That night, I went back to my room, called my parents, and told them I was pivoting to optometry.

My Pre-Optometry Journey

From that moment on, I got more involved, eventually becoming president of the pre-optometry club. I shadowed a few practices and volunteered where I could. Though in hindsight, I wish I had spent more time working in a clinic setting.

I also dreaded taking the OAT. My previous test-taking experiences haunted me. But I committed. I studied hard and scored a 330 overall with a 350 in the sciences. When I saw my reading comprehension score in the low 200s, I was embarrassed. But I didn’t let it stop me.

The Interview That Made Me Laugh (and Think)

I interviewed at several schools, including ICO and The Ohio State University College of Optometry. At Ohio State, Dr. Mike Earley reviewed my application and jokingly asked, “You can read, right?” We laughed. And I appreciated his honesty.

I chose Ohio State for its strong business program and the overall vibe that just felt right. Looking back, I’m so grateful I did.

Lessons From the Journey

If you’re on this path or thinking about it, here are a few takeaways I hope you remember:

Your path doesn’t have to be perfect. Mine wasn’t. I stumbled, adapted, and found my way.
Pay attention to signs. Whether it’s a conversation, a mentor, or a gut feeling, sometimes life nudges you in a new direction.
Don’t let test scores define you. They’re one piece of the puzzle, not the whole picture.
Every journey is unique. Whether you’re a legacy optometrist or just discovering the field, your story matters.
Challenges are inevitable but growth is optional. It’s not about whether challenges come. It’s about how you respond when they do.

I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment or message me about your optometric journey, what sparked your interest, what obstacles you’ve faced, and how you found your “why.”

Let’s reflect and grow stronger together.

– Dr. Ryan Corte