Women In Optometry turned to its student advisory board to give some advice to those students coming into optometry school. What they share here is solid, relatable and encouraging.
Ask All of Your Questions
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions! We are in school to learn. While some preceptors at clinic may seem intimidating, they’re there to help. Regardless of whether you think your question is dumb, if you truly don’t know the answer, or you can’t find it in your notes, ask anyway.” —Ashlee Payne, New England College of Optometry class of 2026
As a busy mother of two, Payne offered seven essential tips for first-year students that she says have helped her “be more successful.” Read that full story here.
Deep Breaths
“Remember to give yourself some grace if coursework or clinic becomes challenging at times, even if it means taking a day for yourself to regroup. Remember that you are in your program for a reason, so keep your eye on the bigger picture, and have confidence that the good Lord above is going to see you through to the finish line.” —Gaby Malave, Indiana University School of Optometry class of 2026
Build on the Basics
“Focus on mastering basics early on. The concepts that we learn in the first year are building blocks for everything that follows. So don’t just aim to pass exams; aim to understand the material deeply. There will be times when you feel overwhelmed or unsure of yourself, and that’s normal! Be kind to yourself and remember that you are here because you have the potential to be great at what you do.” —Raman Badh, Pennsylvania College of Optometry, Salus at Drexel University class of 2026
Smart Schedule Management
“At the beginning of the semester, write down all of your exam dates and deadlines in a paper or electronic calendar to visualize how busy each week will be. Make sure to block off specific times in your calendar for breaks and downtime.” —Mariem Girgis, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences School of Optometry class of 2026
Network Early
“I wish I had taken more advantage of the ODs at my optometry school during my first year. Optometrists who are lecturing are excellent resources; don’t hesitate to go to their office hours or reach out to them for advice about anything optometry-related. If a certain optometrist can’t help you, they will definitely know another OD who can!” —Abby Wilhelmi, Illinois College of Optometry class of 2026
Take Some Time for You
“Don’t be too hard on yourself! Adjusting to this program can be so difficult and filled with both excitement and disappointment. Make sure to incorporate time to yourself and do things you love.” —Alyssa Buren, Ferris State University – Michigan College of Optometry class of 2026
Explore Everything
“Always give yourself grace. No one is perfect, so no one expects you to be. It’s okay to put yourself first sometimes— you’re not selfish for taking care of yourself. Enjoy school while you are here. You will only be a student for four years, so soak it up, go to conferences and do the fun student-geared things while you can! I have never regretted taking time out to do these things.” —Lauren (Pohl) Franklin, University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry class of 2026
Get Involved
“Don’t be afraid to get involved and reach for opportunities. My favorite parts of school have been the clubs I have joined, volunteer clinics I have attended and leadership positions I have held. I am so thankful to have had great friends and faculty who supported and pushed me to be involved in those ways.” —Deanna Dale, University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Optometry class of 2026
Find Balance
“Focus on balance. Although academics are important, a social life, as well as maintaining physical and mental health and your wellbeing, should also be a priority. Once you achieve that balance, everything becomes much easier and then you can really start enjoying the process and all that school has to offer.” —Paige Wagar, University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science class of 2026
Give Yourself Grace
“Give yourself grace and don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone learns at a different pace, has different strengths and will be great doctors in their own ways. Just focus on being the best version of yourself!” —Hope Santangelo, The Ohio State University College of Optometry class of 2026
