The Illinois College of Optometry Student Blog

As I begin my first rotation as a fourth-year outside of the Illinois Eye Institute, it has become very clear that there are many different methods of practice in the field of optometry. Something that I am thankful for is that I was able to work in a private practice outside of ICO and the IEI and begin to get an idea of these differences before my fourth year. Some doctors practice at different paces, some are more particular about verbiage and charting, and many use differ

This is my first post and I’m honestly a little nervous. Firsts are always hard- the first day of a job, the first essay of the year, and Monday (always Monday). The first of anything means it is also the start, and we have a natural caution with beginnings. I think it’s because we are afraid of the unknown- of going into anything slightly blind to what the future holds. That’s probably where my nerves about my first post come from, but nerves are normal and so is excitement.

Aside from shadowing different eye doctors, upon entering optometry school, I didn’t know any current optometrists or optometry students. Looking back, I wish I had gotten to know a current optometry student. They could have not only answered my questions about applying and what the field is like, but also explained to me what I would truly experience in optometry school… especially all of the math! I strongly, strongly dislike math. I’ve always felt that way. I’m not sure if

In order to celebrate the completion of my third year of optometry school, I decided to take a solo trip to Copenhagen, Denmark. Studying for boards wasn’t much fun, and between that and working multiple jobs, I figured it was time I treated myself. The trip was somewhat spontaneous but definitely worth it. I am lucky that my first rotation is in Chicago. I didn’t have to spend my only week off in-between quarters moving, and could actually travel with the free time. I would 

Every applicant is asked this question at some point on their optometric journey: “What made you want to go to optometry school?” After a while, the response becomes beautifully rehearsed, without any stumbling or “umm”s. As the application process continues, every applicant hopes that their reason is good enough for the interviewers. Over a recent weekend, I was asked by some prospective students why I wanted to go to optometry school and be an optometrist. I gave them the r