Meet the Winners of the First Annual Learning Through Clinical Care Student Case Contest

As part of the American Board of Optometry’s (ABO) student-focused outreach, third- and fourth- year optometry students who are involved in patient care were invited to participate in the first annual student case challenge, Learning Through Clinical Care.

The students were awarded cash prizes with the first- and second-place winners being given the opportunity to collaborate with ABO to develop their case into a learning module for ABO Diplomates and Candidates. Those modules will be available to Diplomates by the end of the year.

And the winners are…

Jennetta Dao, a fourth-year student at NOVA Southeastern University College of Optometry was the first-place recipient for her case study, Ocular Adverse Effects of Tivdak® Infusion Therapy. The Case Review Committee was impressed with the thoroughness, the quality of references, and the level of detail provided in the case. “None of us were familiar with Tivdak or its ocular effects,” said Bibin Cherian, OD and committee member. “This was entirely new information and the case study highlights the vital role of optometrists as part of a multi-disciplinary approach to treating critically ill patients.”

Riley Parker, a fourth-year student at Ferris State University, Michigan College of Optometry was the second- place winner with her case study, Correcting Crumby Vision: The Use of Scleral Lenses for Management of the Patient with Granular Corneal Dystrophy Type I, so it’s no surprise that after graduation she would like to do a Cornea and Contact Lens residency.

After graduation she hopes to return to her hometown of Springfield, MO to pursue private practice and work as an industry partner. She also hopes to play a role in academia.

In her spare time Riley likes hanging out with her kitty, Harvey, cheering on the Chiefs, watching Broadway shows, and going to see stand-up comedy shows with her husband.

Logan Oostdyk, a fourth-year student at Ferris State University, Michigan College of Optometry received honorable mention for his case study, Management of Pigment Dispersion Syndrome in a Young Adult Patient.

From Byron Center, MI Logan aims to practice comprehensive primary care optometry, ideally in a private practice. 

In his spare time he enjoys outdoor activities such as biking, taking walks, and spending time on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Congratulations to all of our winners and best wishes as you begin your career in optometry!