HI I just wanted to give you some advice from an OSU student. I start my fourth year in a couple of weeks and have nothing but the best to say about my school. I too didn't know where I would go when I got accepted to IU and OSU. My brother went to IU and I chose OSU. I have never regretted my decision. Our classes are small (about 65) we are all really close and there is absolutely no competition inside or outside of class. OSU is known for research but it isn't pushed upon you, you just get all the good info about the amazing things that are going on inside this building. We have really great and fun teachers (every school will have a few classes that drag, but you gotta hear that stuff, you will be glad for boards) Plus we have a program where you can get your masters in vision science along with your OD if you choose for no extra cost. Not a route I chose but they are throwing around adding another program like that that might be Public Health, I would've been interested in getting my Masters in this though. We also get a business program along with our regular courses every quarter, something that you'll really appreciate when you are trying to figure out how to make the money when you get out.
They are finishing the new part of the building in Dec. which will be really nice for future classes. For me, I decided when I looked at board passage rates. That was very important to me especially when I had first hand knowledge of how not passing boards can affect everything in an associate my dad (also an OD) worked with. My class took the first part of boards in August, and we had a 98% passage rate in my class that is pretty consistent, only 1 that didn't pass that I can recall. We are prepared so well from class that if you put in the time, boards are not a problem. Clinic is good, they are always looking to increase patient encounters and have a bunch of things in the works to do so. This is also the first year we will have 2 out of house externs which we are all looking forward to.
Being in Ohio, you will get exposed to the Ohio Optometric Association and you will be completely excited about where the profession is going after getting involved with this. They are doing incredible things statewide.
Columbus is great, I moved in from out of state, always a lot to do especially if you are a sports fan. Always easy to get around and an easy commute from pretty much anywhere. Not to mention I pay about 350/month for rent, much better than most OD students will pay at other schools.
Also OSU gives instate tuition after the first year as you can apply to be an Ohio resident. This is great, that first year is awful expensive but you get a huge break from out of state tuition those next 3 years.
Overall, out of a class of 65 there are about 25 of us that I can count on to hang around on a regular basis. Everyone in the building knows your name and I just wouldn't have it any other way. I hope this helps.
