As we approach a new semester and, for some of you reading this, the start of your journey into eye care, I felt it would be a great time to share some optometry school tips to help you all prepare.

I remember my time as an optometry student vividly; the excitement, the pressure, and that constant feeling of wondering what it would really be like in practice.

Now, in a role as an associate lecturer, I see the same mix of anticipation and anxiety in the faces of the students I help to teach. A university degree gives you an incredible foundation. However, there’s a world of difference between a textbook chapter on retinoscopy and the first time a real patient is sitting in your chair.

That’s why I wanted to share some practical, real-world optometry school tips to help you bridge that gap. This isn’t just about passing your exams; it’s about building the habits and the mindset that will set you up for a successful and fulfilling career from day one.

Laying the Groundwork

The first set of optometry school tips are all about what you do before you even touch a piece of equipment. Success in the clinic begins with your mindset.

Before every practical, your instructors will provide pre-work. Read it. Understand it. This preparation is your single biggest advantage. Walking into a session knowing the theory allows you to spend your precious time practising the skill, not trying to catch up on the basics.

This proactive approach extends to professionalism. Arriving early and dressing the part isn’t just about looking smart; it’s about mentally stepping into the role of a healthcare professional. Punctuality and appropriate dress signal to your supervisors, your peers, and your patients that you take this responsibility seriously.

These basic habits are some of the most important optometry school tips. They build the professional identity that will carry you through your entire career.

Optometry School Tips for Maximising Your Clinical Time

University clinics are a golden opportunity, and your time there is finite and valuable. One of my biggest frustrations as a supervisor is seeing students chatting in the corner when they could be practising. Socialising is important, but not at the expense of your education. One of the best optometry school tips I can give you is to treat every clinical session like a professional appointment with your own future.

This means minimising distractions. While a phone can be a useful tool, it’s often a gateway to a world outside the clinic. Staying focused on the task at hand is crucial.

When you finish a required task early, don’t pack up. Ask your supervisor if you can use the spare time to practise another skill. This proactive use of time is a core theme in my optometry school tips. You are paying for access to this equipment and expertise – make every minute count! This dedication will pay dividends when you’re in your placements and beyond.

Advanced Optometry School Tips: Cultivating the Clinician’s Mindset

The final set of optometry school tips is about the work you do beyond the clinic walls to cultivate the mind of a clinician. Firstly, practice at home. You don’t need a full set of equipment. A simple occluder and a pen torch can help you hone your cover test or pupillary assessments. Be creative and safe, but keep those skills sharp. I even have an article on useful budget equipment that you can buy to practice some of the skills at home.

Secondly, reflect. After every session, take a moment to think: what went well? What could I improve? This reflective practice is a core part of your CPD for the rest of your career, and it’s a habit you should start now. It’s one of the most powerful optometry school tips for accelerating your growth. Your supervisors should also be willing to help with some of this feedback, but remember, the growth comes from reflecting and implementing.

Finally, and most importantly, ask questions. There are no stupid questions. If you are unsure of something, it’s almost guaranteed someone else is too. Seeking feedback is not a sign of weakness; it is the hallmark of a diligent and self-aware student. Your supervisors expect questions, and engaging with them is one of the most valuable optometry school tips for avoiding mistakes and cementing your knowledge.

Your Go-To Resource for More Optometry School Tips

This journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and having trusted resources to turn to is vital. Bookmarking The Eye Care Advocate is a great way to supplement your learning. I provide a range of optometry school tips and resources, including:

The Skill Centre: Articles and how-to-guides for a range of the common practical techniques that you will encounter on your optometry journey. These guides do require signing up to a free membership – but I have heard that this is worth it!

Articles: A collection of articles that will help you understand the life of an optometrist or eye care professional. These will primarily focus around communication skills and how you can apply the General Optical Council’s Standards during your time at optometry school, and beyond.

Your Journey Starts Now

Embarking on your optometry degree is an incredible journey. By following these optometry school tips, you can build a strong foundation for success. Preparation, punctuality, and a proactive attitude are your keys to making the most of your clinical time. Reflect, ask questions, and never stop learning. Your dedication now will pave the way for a rewarding and successful

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