Hey congrats on being accepted!
First I should say that I know nothing about the Optometry program at UAB, so I can only tell you what I think about OSU and why I chose it aside from the fact that I live in Ohio and the in state tuition is to my advantage.
Some good things:
-First, it has been a solid optometry school for close to a century and the tradition of the entire school is cool. I know a few OD's out of OSU and they are great doctors.
-It is part of one of the largest health sciences facilities in America so I am not worried about only examining healthy college students, i am sure you will see all types of disease there.
-The research programs are top notch at OSU, if that is your thing.
-You can become a resident of Ohio after your first year to get the tuition down.
-At least where I am from, a degree from OSU says a lot.
-The school has tons to do if you want to, like optometry clubs and organizations, as well as football games and that stuff, which is fun. if they could only win a championship. haha
-And you will be able to become an Ohio resident after your first year to get tuition down.
-Columbus has everything you need, it is a good city to live in, not too big.
Some bad stuff:
-The out of state cost for the first year( if you are from out of state)
-It is a huge place with tons of people, so having too much to do outside of the class could become a distraction.
-It is freezing cold in the winter.
-The school is probably a little older and more run down compared to others, but that is what you make of it I think.
So these are my opinions of OSU and I am sure others will have different views, Hope this helps you some