My Optometry School Journey: Navigating Pressure, Passion, and Purpose

Welcome back to the Ryan Reflects blog! If you're new here, I’m Dr. Ryan Corte, optometrist, podcast host, and passionate advocate for pushing our profession forward, one conversation at a time. In this post, I’m diving deep into my experience at The Ohio State University College of Optometry, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

This isn’t just a recap of what I went through, it’s a reflection on the mindset shifts, leadership growth, and life lessons that helped shape the clinician and person I am today.

From Michigan to Ohio

Before OSU, I attended Michigan State University for undergrad. Born and raised in Michigan, I was eager to leave my home state for optometry school. I considered several programs, including ICO, but ultimately landed on Ohio State. I was drawn to the campus culture, their strong business program, and the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

At orientation, we played sand volleyball, grilled out at a welcome BBQ, and began building the friendships that would carry us through some of the most intense years of our lives. It felt right from the start.

Living Off Campus vs. On Campus

I spent my first year living off campus with a good friend, and quickly realized how much time we were spending commuting. Between classes, labs, and clinicals, living nearby is a game changer. In years two and three, I moved on campus, and the difference was night and day. Being able to walk to class, study late, and socialize easily made life much more manageable.

My advice? If you can, live close. You will be glad you did.

The Pressure to Succeed

Optometry school is no joke. At Ohio State, failing a class did not just mean retaking it, it meant repeating the entire year. That added pressure was real. Even though I never came close to failing, the fear lingered. The coursework was intense, the pace relentless, and the competition strong.

This constant pressure caused a lot of anxiety, something I did not expect. I began seeing a counselor through school, an incredibly helpful and humbling experience. If you are struggling, please know you are not alone. Talk to someone. You are investing so much into becoming an optometrist, take care of your mind along the way.

Finding My Voice in Leadership

Early on, I ran for class president, and got thoroughly outclassed by a well prepared, charismatic peer. I will never forget sitting outside the classroom thinking, I’m screwed. And I was. But I am grateful for that experience. It humbled me and pushed me to look for other ways to contribute.

I joined several clubs, private practice, sports vision, and the Interprofessional Council. Then, I was encouraged to run for AOSA Trustee Elect. That decision changed the trajectory of my leadership journey.

Later, with a nudge from the late, great Dr. Gil Pierce, I ran for AOSA Executive Council President. Preparing for that speech, writing it out, memorizing it, delivering it with heart, was a defining moment. I won the election and learned firsthand how our legislative profession is shaped, challenged, and strengthened.

Building a Support System

Optometry school is a grind. Surrounding yourself with the right people is essential. I was lucky to have, roommates who were great friends and study partners, a strong network of classmates, intramural teammates, and Eye House friends.

We studied together, worked out together, blew off steam together, and that made all the difference.

Fourth Year, Life in a Suitcase

Fourth year is all about rotations. Mine included:

• Salisbury VAMC in North Carolina

• The Eye Center of Toledo, while living at home in Michigan

• Multiple on and off campus rotations at OSU clinics

This was when everything came together, learning to think like a provider, manage patient care independently, and lean into clinical reasoning. My biggest advice? Ask questions. Challenge yourself. Build your clinical confidence.

Final Thoughts on My Optometry School Journey

My optometry school journey was filled with growth, anxiety, laughter, and self discovery. From Michigan State to Ohio State, from failed elections to national leadership, from long commutes to walkable community, it all shaped me into a better doctor and a better human.

If you are in the middle of your journey, I see you. If you are past it, I would love to hear your reflections in the comments. And if you are just beginning, I hope this glimpse into my experience helps guide your own.