The Illinois College of Optometry Student Blog

With the first quarter in the books, it is now time to move on to the second. There’s a little over a week-long break before we dive into quarter number two of optometry school. This allows for everyone to either go back home, or for those like me, spend the entire time exploring. One of the things I wanted to see was what the state of Illinois had to offer in regards to hikes and the outdoors. There happens to be a beautiful state park that isn’t too far away from the city.

While an optometry student at ICO, you learn to appreciate the little things that may otherwise be taken for granted. For example: Your bed! We are all familiar with all-nighters. The level of concentration and commitment an optometry student has to keep throughout the school year can, at times, be draining. The one thing you’re looking forward to at the end of the day is getting some sleep in your cozy bed. The sundeck at the RC. Since most days you will find yourself indoor

Last week, I said my goodbyes and stepped on a plane in Boston, Massachusetts. Roughly two hours later, I entered a new time zone and touched down in Chicago. As of August 16th, I have officially completed my first year Orientation at ICO. Now, I’ve begun classes. View from plane leaving Boston! Things are moving along very quickly, but I am enjoying every minute of it! It is such a great feeling to know that I have accomplished one of my life goals and made it to optometry s

Alas. I made it through the first quarter of optometry school, surviving 10 weeks of rigorous classes, 30 intensive exams, five nerve-wracking practicals, and lastly, six intensive cumulative finals. However, what I can’t quantify is all of the wonderful memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. A few weeks ago we had a break between fall and winter quarters, and after the hustle and bustle of school, it was nice to have a nice seven-day frolic to unwind and de