I'm here in Fullerton and have come full circle since last October! School starts in less than 2 weeks. Explore, explore, explore are the things on my to do list. Oh, and also giving details on my last interview!
I haven't mentioned this, but my 4 interviews occurred within 1 month's time during October of 2011. It was a crazy month, so when SCCO came up I was happy it was coming to an end. The interview process is one of the best parts of applying to schools since your goal is so tangible, but it is very draining at the same time. Being your happiest, most engaging self is more challenging if you have an introvert personality like myself.
Anyways, SCCO was my last optometry interview. It was during the middle of the week and not one of their bigger Saturday/weekend interviews. This meant I was alone again. Not a terrible thing since I had already experienced this, but it probably would have been more fun with other applicants.
Here is the break down of my Interview Day at SCCO
9:20am - check in at the administration office
9:30am - given 30 minute written prompt
10am - financial aid meeting
10:30am - official interview with 2 current faculty members
11:20am - file review interview with Director of Student Affairs
12pm - campus tour including lab rooms, Eye Clinic, lecture halls, library, and student center
12:30pm - said goodbyes and thank yous before heading off to the airport for my flight back home.
This was my shortest interview day which was nice in some ways. By this point I was confident with my interview skills, but also drained from the whole experience. The schedule above is slower than the actual pace of my actual interview day since I was the only one, and I didn't take the full 30 minutes to give my written response.
For my review, I would say SCCO was very welcoming and inviting the entire time I was there. The main assistant in the office, Betty Sanchez, was extremely good at keeping me calm by simply smiling and engaging me in small talk. If you're at all aware of SCCO, you're aware of Dr. Munroe. She is as sweet and helpful as she appears online! Yup, got to meet her and have a good chat... I think before my actual interview? Anyways, everyone was nice and low key - not what I was expecting since it is Southern California!
I did wish, in a strange twisted way, for the day to be slightly longer. The campus tour seemed a bit quick, but since I got almost all of my questions answered it worked out. Also, I love food. There wasn't any provided for me, but I wasn't torn up about this since, again, I was the only applicant that day and it was a half day interview.
So, overall, it was a good final interview! I think my favorite part was the official interview and viewing the student library. SCCO was awesome at providing tips and even a mock interview on youtube that I was able to review before attending! Likewise, the library faces a beautiful green belt and seemed so inviting. I actually had about an hour to spare before I was to be picked up by the airport taxi, so I just chilled in the library to wait!
Now, this is the end of my interview series, but I can add one final installment. The decision process. Unless you have a top choice from the get-go, this is the ultimate step (especially when you consider the schools typically only give up to 2 weeks before you have to accept or reject their offer).
However, before I add that post I'm going out to explore Fullerton! It is suppose to be 91 today!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
Showing posts with label advice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label advice. Show all posts
August 8, 2012
July 30, 2012
Pacific University College of Optometry Interview
3rd Interview and it was by far the cheapest! Though I was really set on moving to a different state for professional school, I knew it was a good idea to check out Pacific. The university is a mere 40 minutes from my parents' house and in an area that I feel naturally at ease.
Pacific University was the only Optometry program that was part of the typical university campus. It is a private school for undergraduates, graduates, and professional students, so you are surrounded by the feelings of youth, new idea, and possibilities. It doesn't hurt the school is situated amongst tons of trees. You feel like you're in a forest! Ok, enough about the look and feel of the campus (I really love nature and the NW if you can't tell). On to my interview day at Pacific!
7:45am - arrive and check in at the student union centrally located on the campus. Get name tag and meet fellow applicants.
8:00 - attend a morning lecture with current students!
9:00 - brief rundown of schedule for the day before given a 10-15 minute writing sample
9:30 - introduction/welcome to Pacific University and the College of Optometry by the Dean
10:00 - financial aid meeting as a large group
10:25 - 4th year clinical rotation information session
11:00 - Q&A session with student panel
11:30 - break for lunch; eat with students from panel and faculty (you'll be interviewing with these people!)
12:30 - break off into 3 groups for interviews, campus tours, or free time (1 hour for each)
3:45 - finish up final rotation before meeting back as a large group for social hour
4:00 - social hour with sweets, coffee, tea to chat with other faculty, students, administrators, and fellow applicants
5:25ish - feel the drain of the day and head back home
Pacific's Interview day is long, but you get a lot out of the experience. You have the option of sitting in on a lecture (awesome! triple brownie points!), chat with students, eat with the people you're going to be interviewing with (aids in feeling more at ease once you have your interview), and are given a full hour to just relax. At the end of the day you are exhausted, but feel like you're already a part of the Optometry program's family. They really do an excellent job of making you feel comfortable and at ease. When I first saw that interviews weren't going to be held until the afternoon I mentally freaked. I had to be anxiety-ridden until 2pm?! Maybe it was because I was already starting to get drained, had food in me, or had talked with students earlier, but I felt very relaxed when I entered the interview room.
An important note about the afternoon when they divide you into 3 groups: if you are not the first group to be interview, you will have to find your interview location on your own. This is somewhat scary, but your tour guides can point you in the right direction. My campus guide actually walked me to my building because she didn't even know where it was! I guess it was a brand new building that isn't used yet, so if she hadn't assisted me I would have missed the interview.
Next time I'll wrap up my experiences with my final interview at SCCO.
Until Next Time,
powerkat
Pacific University was the only Optometry program that was part of the typical university campus. It is a private school for undergraduates, graduates, and professional students, so you are surrounded by the feelings of youth, new idea, and possibilities. It doesn't hurt the school is situated amongst tons of trees. You feel like you're in a forest! Ok, enough about the look and feel of the campus (I really love nature and the NW if you can't tell). On to my interview day at Pacific!
7:45am - arrive and check in at the student union centrally located on the campus. Get name tag and meet fellow applicants.
8:00 - attend a morning lecture with current students!
9:00 - brief rundown of schedule for the day before given a 10-15 minute writing sample
9:30 - introduction/welcome to Pacific University and the College of Optometry by the Dean
10:00 - financial aid meeting as a large group
10:25 - 4th year clinical rotation information session
11:00 - Q&A session with student panel
11:30 - break for lunch; eat with students from panel and faculty (you'll be interviewing with these people!)
12:30 - break off into 3 groups for interviews, campus tours, or free time (1 hour for each)
3:45 - finish up final rotation before meeting back as a large group for social hour
4:00 - social hour with sweets, coffee, tea to chat with other faculty, students, administrators, and fellow applicants
5:25ish - feel the drain of the day and head back home
Pacific's Interview day is long, but you get a lot out of the experience. You have the option of sitting in on a lecture (awesome! triple brownie points!), chat with students, eat with the people you're going to be interviewing with (aids in feeling more at ease once you have your interview), and are given a full hour to just relax. At the end of the day you are exhausted, but feel like you're already a part of the Optometry program's family. They really do an excellent job of making you feel comfortable and at ease. When I first saw that interviews weren't going to be held until the afternoon I mentally freaked. I had to be anxiety-ridden until 2pm?! Maybe it was because I was already starting to get drained, had food in me, or had talked with students earlier, but I felt very relaxed when I entered the interview room.
An important note about the afternoon when they divide you into 3 groups: if you are not the first group to be interview, you will have to find your interview location on your own. This is somewhat scary, but your tour guides can point you in the right direction. My campus guide actually walked me to my building because she didn't even know where it was! I guess it was a brand new building that isn't used yet, so if she hadn't assisted me I would have missed the interview.
Next time I'll wrap up my experiences with my final interview at SCCO.
Until Next Time,
powerkat
July 25, 2012
Illinois College of Optometry Interview
I really liked my experience with ICO. Why? Because they have this awesome program where you can spend the night before your interview in one of their dorm (called the Residential Complex) rooms for free. Did I mention the dorm is right across the street from the campus building? And they give you a free breakfast? As I am a cheap gal, I loved this! However, it is a first come, first serve deal. Make sure you call as soon as you know the date of your interview.
Since I took advantage of this overnight program, my morning was interesting as I woke up, got dressed, and went to the school cafeteria for breakfast which was completely empty. I thought this was really weird, but it turned out the students were taking an exam that morning. This was realized as I walked back to my dorm room after breakfast and encountered an entire hallway of stressed out first years reviewing notes with each other. 'Hey everyone! Check out the awkward applicant in her professional clothes!'
Anyways, I went back to the dorm, packed up my luggage, and headed back over to the main building to officially check in for my interview. My flight back home was later that day, so I was "that kid" and brought everything with me. Thankfully, the security staff took pity on me and let me store my gear in their office.
Turns out? I was the only applicant scheduled for that day. At first I thought it was a little weird since at ICO they have a large room where the financial aid officer, admissions director, and tour guides come meet you. Because of this, I mostly was sitting on a couch waiting for the next person to arrive and talk with me. Though, I got all the free cookies, tea, and water to myself. :)
So, in terms of how the day went:
9am - checked in at main lobby
9:15 - received by a student doing work study in the admissions office and lead upstairs to applicant room.
9:20 - introduced to admissions officer, reviewed academic file, filled out lunch card, and did 15 minute written prompt
10:25 - Welcome to ICO conversation by admissions director on couch
10:45 - financial aid meeting on couch
11:30 - official interview with a professor in his personal office. finally got to leave the applicant room!
12:15pm - lunch with ICO students in applicant room. Chatted about student life, Chicago living, academic/social balance, and how they all wanted to move to Portland because it was so green, sustainable, and had no sales tax.
1:00 - student tour guides picked me up and lead me around the building, residential complex, fitness center, EyePod, and lecture/lab skills rooms.
2:00 - said good bye to admissions officer, picked up my luggage, and went on my merry way to the airport.
As you can see, I was slightly annoyed by the fact that I was stuck in one room, but it worked for the best since I was the only person interviewing that day. Being the only applicant seemed daunting, but worked out ok. I didn't have to compete with anyone to ask questions. Though, it would have been nice to meet other applicants and have a better idea of who ICO was looking for their program. The student lunch was a great way for me to get a better sense of this and they were all extremely nice. They gave tips on what they experienced and gave honest thoughts on what they liked/disliked about the program which was really refreshing.
Hopefully the break down of my day was easier to follow this time? Anyways, like I mentioned in my Salus post, this is merely what I experienced and does not reflect how you or someone else will experience an ICO interview. Take my comments with a grain of salt.
Where am I headed next? Why, my local town of Forest Grove, OR and my review of Pacific University's Optometry Interview!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
Since I took advantage of this overnight program, my morning was interesting as I woke up, got dressed, and went to the school cafeteria for breakfast which was completely empty. I thought this was really weird, but it turned out the students were taking an exam that morning. This was realized as I walked back to my dorm room after breakfast and encountered an entire hallway of stressed out first years reviewing notes with each other. 'Hey everyone! Check out the awkward applicant in her professional clothes!'
Anyways, I went back to the dorm, packed up my luggage, and headed back over to the main building to officially check in for my interview. My flight back home was later that day, so I was "that kid" and brought everything with me. Thankfully, the security staff took pity on me and let me store my gear in their office.
Turns out? I was the only applicant scheduled for that day. At first I thought it was a little weird since at ICO they have a large room where the financial aid officer, admissions director, and tour guides come meet you. Because of this, I mostly was sitting on a couch waiting for the next person to arrive and talk with me. Though, I got all the free cookies, tea, and water to myself. :)
So, in terms of how the day went:
9am - checked in at main lobby
9:15 - received by a student doing work study in the admissions office and lead upstairs to applicant room.
9:20 - introduced to admissions officer, reviewed academic file, filled out lunch card, and did 15 minute written prompt
10:25 - Welcome to ICO conversation by admissions director on couch
10:45 - financial aid meeting on couch
11:30 - official interview with a professor in his personal office. finally got to leave the applicant room!
12:15pm - lunch with ICO students in applicant room. Chatted about student life, Chicago living, academic/social balance, and how they all wanted to move to Portland because it was so green, sustainable, and had no sales tax.
1:00 - student tour guides picked me up and lead me around the building, residential complex, fitness center, EyePod, and lecture/lab skills rooms.
2:00 - said good bye to admissions officer, picked up my luggage, and went on my merry way to the airport.
As you can see, I was slightly annoyed by the fact that I was stuck in one room, but it worked for the best since I was the only person interviewing that day. Being the only applicant seemed daunting, but worked out ok. I didn't have to compete with anyone to ask questions. Though, it would have been nice to meet other applicants and have a better idea of who ICO was looking for their program. The student lunch was a great way for me to get a better sense of this and they were all extremely nice. They gave tips on what they experienced and gave honest thoughts on what they liked/disliked about the program which was really refreshing.
Hopefully the break down of my day was easier to follow this time? Anyways, like I mentioned in my Salus post, this is merely what I experienced and does not reflect how you or someone else will experience an ICO interview. Take my comments with a grain of salt.
Where am I headed next? Why, my local town of Forest Grove, OR and my review of Pacific University's Optometry Interview!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
July 19, 2012
Optometry School Application Process Part IIIB: The Interview Day
Here is the Interview Part II! In this section of the application process I'll discuss what my experience was overall for Optometry school interviews and do separate posts about specific schools. That way you don't have to be too overwhelmed with the interview information.
When you interview, this is your chance to be yourself and shine. Corny, but 100% true. Like your wardrobe, you need to put your best self forward. Don't act like you would in front of friends, but do act like yourself around close adults you respect (and want respect from).
The interview day started out with an introduction from a school administrator or the person in charge of the application process. They welcomed me and directed me to the central area where the applicants meet n' greet. In this area, you will most likely be given a name tag and a booklet of information that includes financial aid information, estimated budgets, your schedule of the day, and programs the school offers. There is a high chance there will be a selection of bagels, muffins, juices, and coffee for you to nibble on before the introduction to the program begins. I always tried to eat something before arriving to the school (a protein-rich meal with fruit was very filling), because I knew my nerves would be too high to do anything with the buffet.
After the meet-n-greet, you will have a run-down of what your schedule will be for the day. Typically, your schedule can look 1 of 2 ways: meetings with financial aid, campus tours, a student panel, and lunch followed by the interviews. Or, interviews first with meetings to follow. It depends on the school. However, it is a guarantee that if an essay is involved, it is always done after the introduction. Do not sweat this part. The prompt is usually basic and there to give you an opportunity to think on your feet and show your communication skills. There is a misconception these essays are meant to determine if an applicant plagiarized their personal statement. This is not the case unless you really have something to hide, so just write from your heart.
After the 15-30 minute written prompt, you will head off to your meetings, tours, or interviews. Be prepared to ask questions, know some info about the school, drink water whenever offered, and have good shoes! You'll be walking around a lot, attempting to smile and be friendly when you're really freaked out. At Pacific University I was there from 7:45am to 4:45pm! Having water, mints, and/or good shoes for the long haul is vital. By having a few questions specific to the school prepared you have something to work into the conversation and get what you need out of the experience. Remember you are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you. The night before my interviews I would review my research of the school and jot down questions divided into two categories. One category were general questions that could be asked during tours or student panels while the other category of questions were very specific to the school's program left for the interview. This was helpful because some questions are better answered by students (how to balance the work load with real life?), while others are better for administrators (tell me more about the required research thesis).
Each school interviews applicants differently. At Pacific we were spread out throughout the campus in different buildings. At PCO-Salus we were in the same building, same floor, but different rooms. My interview at SCCO was in the same room where I did my written prompt, while my interviewer at ICO took me to his personal office. There is no specific written formula for what goes on, but the only thing you can control is how you present yourself.
To break it down, here were some, but not all, of the questions I was asked.
1. Why do you want to be an Optometrist?
2. Why do you want to attend our school?
3. What is your academic weakness? Strength?
4. What is your proudest accomplishment to date?
5. You did a lot of extra-curriculars in college. Which one stands out the most and why?
6. If you were in this type of ethical situation, what would you do?
7. Who do you admire most and why?
8. What do you do for fun or how do you relieve stress?
9. If you could do anything besides Optometry, what would it be?
10. How would you describe or explain what an Optometrist does to a random person?
As you can see, the interviewer is trying to get a sense of who you are as a person and if you will make a good optometrist. The questions asked are evaluating you ability to get through the rigorous program. Some of these questions you WILL get asked (#1,2, and 8 are definite). You don't need to have a prepared, well rehearsed response to all of the listed questions. However, be very clear with your message for why you want to be an Optometrist. This is "The Big One".
Like preparing my questions the night before, I also wrote very rough draft responses to a few of these questions so I could have a visual of what I wanted to say. It worked out my nerves and helped a lot!
Hopefully this gives you a clearer picture of a general interview day. I can give more details about my days at Salus, ICO, Pacific, and SCCO in later posts.
Good luck and enjoy your day!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
When you interview, this is your chance to be yourself and shine. Corny, but 100% true. Like your wardrobe, you need to put your best self forward. Don't act like you would in front of friends, but do act like yourself around close adults you respect (and want respect from).
The interview day started out with an introduction from a school administrator or the person in charge of the application process. They welcomed me and directed me to the central area where the applicants meet n' greet. In this area, you will most likely be given a name tag and a booklet of information that includes financial aid information, estimated budgets, your schedule of the day, and programs the school offers. There is a high chance there will be a selection of bagels, muffins, juices, and coffee for you to nibble on before the introduction to the program begins. I always tried to eat something before arriving to the school (a protein-rich meal with fruit was very filling), because I knew my nerves would be too high to do anything with the buffet.
After the meet-n-greet, you will have a run-down of what your schedule will be for the day. Typically, your schedule can look 1 of 2 ways: meetings with financial aid, campus tours, a student panel, and lunch followed by the interviews. Or, interviews first with meetings to follow. It depends on the school. However, it is a guarantee that if an essay is involved, it is always done after the introduction. Do not sweat this part. The prompt is usually basic and there to give you an opportunity to think on your feet and show your communication skills. There is a misconception these essays are meant to determine if an applicant plagiarized their personal statement. This is not the case unless you really have something to hide, so just write from your heart.
After the 15-30 minute written prompt, you will head off to your meetings, tours, or interviews. Be prepared to ask questions, know some info about the school, drink water whenever offered, and have good shoes! You'll be walking around a lot, attempting to smile and be friendly when you're really freaked out. At Pacific University I was there from 7:45am to 4:45pm! Having water, mints, and/or good shoes for the long haul is vital. By having a few questions specific to the school prepared you have something to work into the conversation and get what you need out of the experience. Remember you are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you. The night before my interviews I would review my research of the school and jot down questions divided into two categories. One category were general questions that could be asked during tours or student panels while the other category of questions were very specific to the school's program left for the interview. This was helpful because some questions are better answered by students (how to balance the work load with real life?), while others are better for administrators (tell me more about the required research thesis).
Each school interviews applicants differently. At Pacific we were spread out throughout the campus in different buildings. At PCO-Salus we were in the same building, same floor, but different rooms. My interview at SCCO was in the same room where I did my written prompt, while my interviewer at ICO took me to his personal office. There is no specific written formula for what goes on, but the only thing you can control is how you present yourself.
To break it down, here were some, but not all, of the questions I was asked.
1. Why do you want to be an Optometrist?
2. Why do you want to attend our school?
3. What is your academic weakness? Strength?
4. What is your proudest accomplishment to date?
5. You did a lot of extra-curriculars in college. Which one stands out the most and why?
6. If you were in this type of ethical situation, what would you do?
7. Who do you admire most and why?
8. What do you do for fun or how do you relieve stress?
9. If you could do anything besides Optometry, what would it be?
10. How would you describe or explain what an Optometrist does to a random person?
As you can see, the interviewer is trying to get a sense of who you are as a person and if you will make a good optometrist. The questions asked are evaluating you ability to get through the rigorous program. Some of these questions you WILL get asked (#1,2, and 8 are definite). You don't need to have a prepared, well rehearsed response to all of the listed questions. However, be very clear with your message for why you want to be an Optometrist. This is "The Big One".
Like preparing my questions the night before, I also wrote very rough draft responses to a few of these questions so I could have a visual of what I wanted to say. It worked out my nerves and helped a lot!
Hopefully this gives you a clearer picture of a general interview day. I can give more details about my days at Salus, ICO, Pacific, and SCCO in later posts.
Good luck and enjoy your day!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
July 17, 2012
Optometry School Application Process Part IIIA: Interview Prep (The 3 C's)
I decided to split the interview section into 2 parts. Part 1 is about
prep for the interview and the things one has to consider before going
to an interview: Compatibility to school, Costs, and Clothing attire.
The 3 C's.
Ok, so you've decided to pursue Optometry, collected and submitted your organized materials, and are now starting to hear back from the schools you applied to. I know, you're trying to read this as quickly as possible because this is the time when you are PUMPED. Every moment spent checking for emails and wondering the outcome is agonizingly slow, yet surreal and too fast. Enjoy it! This is when your hard work begins to pay you back - with interviews!
It typically takes OptomCAS anywhere from 4-8 weeks to process your submitted material, so during that time relax and review the schools you applied to. Also, during this time you'll be completing the supplementary essays the schools will send you. The supplementary essays are a good lead in for reviewing the schools. The questions in these essays may be more specific to the school and ask you why you chose them or why you would be a good fit in their community. These are important questions not to take lightly, so do your research! What do you want from a school? What do you want to experience and give back while in a program? By answering these questions and doing the supplementals, you will be more prepared for when you hear back from the schools about coming for an interview. By that point, you should have a better idea if you are compatible with the school and whether it would be worth the money to go interview.
Now, you may be surprised by that last sentence. As you should be! If you are uncertain about a school, but have not yet been accepted anywhere or gone on an interview.... by all means, go! Yes, you will have to figure in the money (is it really worth it to spend up to $1000 just do an interview with a school you're uncertain about?), but in the long run it could just be a drop in the big bucket of expenses you'll pay for your education. Plus, the first interview is always the most nerve-wracking regardless if the school is your first or last choice. However, if you have gone on 3-4 interviews and get another request, you need to seriously consider how badly you want to attend that particular school. By that point you may have already spent up to $2000-2500, if not more. If through your compatibility research you determined this additional school seems like the perfect fit and the money is in your budget, it may be worth it. However if the school is one you're on the fence about and you would be going only to go on another interview, seriously weigh the options. Interview requests are selective and by getting an invitation from the school means they see something in you. This is a great sign, but not a guarantee for admission. You must decide if the school is worth the cost you will have to spend for a possible spot in their program. It may not, but only you can figure that out by doing research and weighing your options.
So, do your research on the schools! It will help you figure out if you're truly interested in a school's program. Also, think about the expense, but with the mindset of your determination of pursuing the Optometry profession and what expenses must be paid or willing to be paid to accomplish your goal.
In terms of the actual interview day? Dressing professionally is a given. For guys, nice slacks, dress shirt and tie is the minimum. Some invest in suits which is fine. For gals, it gets more complicated, but my view is this: dress professionally, but comfortably. Dress as yourself, but in the cleanest, nicest version. This can include skirts with blouses, maybe a tailored cardigan, slacks, button down top, professional suit, or whatever fits your personal style. Many girls struggle with choosing pumps or flats. Again, go with what makes you comfortable or what you deem more professional. You don't want to be walking around all day in a outfit you have to readjust every 30 seconds. I didn't want to worry about if my clothes fit me, when the bigger and more important concern was if the school was the right fit. I decided to invest in a few professional tops, but wore shoes and dress pants I already owned. This kept me within a safe budget and got to look professional while maintaining my comfortable personal style.
So, these are my 3 C's for the interview prep process. Next time I'll give details for getting through the interview day. Stay tuned!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
Ok, so you've decided to pursue Optometry, collected and submitted your organized materials, and are now starting to hear back from the schools you applied to. I know, you're trying to read this as quickly as possible because this is the time when you are PUMPED. Every moment spent checking for emails and wondering the outcome is agonizingly slow, yet surreal and too fast. Enjoy it! This is when your hard work begins to pay you back - with interviews!
It typically takes OptomCAS anywhere from 4-8 weeks to process your submitted material, so during that time relax and review the schools you applied to. Also, during this time you'll be completing the supplementary essays the schools will send you. The supplementary essays are a good lead in for reviewing the schools. The questions in these essays may be more specific to the school and ask you why you chose them or why you would be a good fit in their community. These are important questions not to take lightly, so do your research! What do you want from a school? What do you want to experience and give back while in a program? By answering these questions and doing the supplementals, you will be more prepared for when you hear back from the schools about coming for an interview. By that point, you should have a better idea if you are compatible with the school and whether it would be worth the money to go interview.
Now, you may be surprised by that last sentence. As you should be! If you are uncertain about a school, but have not yet been accepted anywhere or gone on an interview.... by all means, go! Yes, you will have to figure in the money (is it really worth it to spend up to $1000 just do an interview with a school you're uncertain about?), but in the long run it could just be a drop in the big bucket of expenses you'll pay for your education. Plus, the first interview is always the most nerve-wracking regardless if the school is your first or last choice. However, if you have gone on 3-4 interviews and get another request, you need to seriously consider how badly you want to attend that particular school. By that point you may have already spent up to $2000-2500, if not more. If through your compatibility research you determined this additional school seems like the perfect fit and the money is in your budget, it may be worth it. However if the school is one you're on the fence about and you would be going only to go on another interview, seriously weigh the options. Interview requests are selective and by getting an invitation from the school means they see something in you. This is a great sign, but not a guarantee for admission. You must decide if the school is worth the cost you will have to spend for a possible spot in their program. It may not, but only you can figure that out by doing research and weighing your options.
So, do your research on the schools! It will help you figure out if you're truly interested in a school's program. Also, think about the expense, but with the mindset of your determination of pursuing the Optometry profession and what expenses must be paid or willing to be paid to accomplish your goal.
In terms of the actual interview day? Dressing professionally is a given. For guys, nice slacks, dress shirt and tie is the minimum. Some invest in suits which is fine. For gals, it gets more complicated, but my view is this: dress professionally, but comfortably. Dress as yourself, but in the cleanest, nicest version. This can include skirts with blouses, maybe a tailored cardigan, slacks, button down top, professional suit, or whatever fits your personal style. Many girls struggle with choosing pumps or flats. Again, go with what makes you comfortable or what you deem more professional. You don't want to be walking around all day in a outfit you have to readjust every 30 seconds. I didn't want to worry about if my clothes fit me, when the bigger and more important concern was if the school was the right fit. I decided to invest in a few professional tops, but wore shoes and dress pants I already owned. This kept me within a safe budget and got to look professional while maintaining my comfortable personal style.
So, these are my 3 C's for the interview prep process. Next time I'll give details for getting through the interview day. Stay tuned!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
July 14, 2012
Optometry School Application Process Part II: Submission
Apologies for making you wait forever for Part II to my guide to Optometry School Applications. This past month has been hectic with trying to figure out housing situations and attempting to enjoy summer before classes begin in August. More on those fun topics soon, but for now let's discuss the best part of applying: OptomCAS!
Ok - so if you're a pre-Optometry student and are getting ready to apply, here is my number one tip: Review OptomCAS!!! Make an account as soon as possible. Creating an account before your cycle is the best way to get acclimated to the site and find out how it works. Since the 2013 cycle just began, but you're applying for Fall 2014, create an account! It is 100% free and nothing is official until you hit submit. I did this right before my application cycle began and it helped A LOT. Seriously, I got about half of my questions answered and figured out how OptomCAS functions BEFORE I even created my actual cycle's account. There are many weird details that you won't think about (What can I put in Honors and Activities? Do I just upload my resume? Do I have to create a narrative for every school?), and you need to be informed of how your information needs to be put into the system. This is really important when it comes to confirming transcripts and letters of recommendation. If you input something wrong, it will take longer for OptomCAS to approve your application and get the application sent to your schools.
In theory, for our tech-savvy generation, online application submission should be a breeze. And, in theory it is. However, when you're stressed and want to submit your paperwork ASAP it is very important that you know how the website works so you can quickly get everything done. I should point out that I was wanting to apply and submit my application early (which is what all Optometry websites, schools, and current students will recommend). If you are tech-savvy or are comfortable with applying later when the OptomCAS staff will be busy with the overload of paperwork people have submitted (and therefore will not be as likely to quickly answer your questions), this may not be worth it. But, for me, wanting to be aware of what I was getting myself into was important. Plus, it takes about 2 minutes to create an account. And it's FREE!!!
When you are ready for the official submission process, make sure all of your ducks are in a row for letters of recommendation, personal statement, and the pre-reqs required for each school. OptomCAS does not (nor should they) keep track of each schools requirements. We are applying and entering a professional program and therefore we must be proactively aware of the requirements needed to get it. What made my process easier was printing off a paper copy of my transcripts, personal statement, and pre-req lists for each school. This will come in handy when you are required to manually in-put every course you took in undergrad. Yeah, that's right. EVERY course. Not just pre-reqs. Having a paper copy allows you to visually check off every course you enter. On another note, it helps you determine which schools you really are interested in. Maybe you don't have all the pre-reqs necessary for a certain school. Maybe you do, but realize a particular school has other pre-reqs that you don't want to complete. If you have those types of feelings towards a particular school's pre-reqs, maybe it isn't the right school for you to apply to. By knowing that early, you can save yourself some money. There is a $45 fee to send your application to a school. That adds up quickly, so to save yourself some money and time, consider the schools early on.
So, to sum up, make sure you are prepared for OptomCAS. The submission process is already stressful with the knowledge that what you input could make or break you getting into the school of your dreams. By putting forth a few minutes to create an account, getting questions answered, and printing off a paper copy of your transcripts, you will have more time to relax and enjoy the process. Plus, it will make you that much more prepared for Part III: Interviews!
Ok - so if you're a pre-Optometry student and are getting ready to apply, here is my number one tip: Review OptomCAS!!! Make an account as soon as possible. Creating an account before your cycle is the best way to get acclimated to the site and find out how it works. Since the 2013 cycle just began, but you're applying for Fall 2014, create an account! It is 100% free and nothing is official until you hit submit. I did this right before my application cycle began and it helped A LOT. Seriously, I got about half of my questions answered and figured out how OptomCAS functions BEFORE I even created my actual cycle's account. There are many weird details that you won't think about (What can I put in Honors and Activities? Do I just upload my resume? Do I have to create a narrative for every school?), and you need to be informed of how your information needs to be put into the system. This is really important when it comes to confirming transcripts and letters of recommendation. If you input something wrong, it will take longer for OptomCAS to approve your application and get the application sent to your schools.
In theory, for our tech-savvy generation, online application submission should be a breeze. And, in theory it is. However, when you're stressed and want to submit your paperwork ASAP it is very important that you know how the website works so you can quickly get everything done. I should point out that I was wanting to apply and submit my application early (which is what all Optometry websites, schools, and current students will recommend). If you are tech-savvy or are comfortable with applying later when the OptomCAS staff will be busy with the overload of paperwork people have submitted (and therefore will not be as likely to quickly answer your questions), this may not be worth it. But, for me, wanting to be aware of what I was getting myself into was important. Plus, it takes about 2 minutes to create an account. And it's FREE!!!
When you are ready for the official submission process, make sure all of your ducks are in a row for letters of recommendation, personal statement, and the pre-reqs required for each school. OptomCAS does not (nor should they) keep track of each schools requirements. We are applying and entering a professional program and therefore we must be proactively aware of the requirements needed to get it. What made my process easier was printing off a paper copy of my transcripts, personal statement, and pre-req lists for each school. This will come in handy when you are required to manually in-put every course you took in undergrad. Yeah, that's right. EVERY course. Not just pre-reqs. Having a paper copy allows you to visually check off every course you enter. On another note, it helps you determine which schools you really are interested in. Maybe you don't have all the pre-reqs necessary for a certain school. Maybe you do, but realize a particular school has other pre-reqs that you don't want to complete. If you have those types of feelings towards a particular school's pre-reqs, maybe it isn't the right school for you to apply to. By knowing that early, you can save yourself some money. There is a $45 fee to send your application to a school. That adds up quickly, so to save yourself some money and time, consider the schools early on.
So, to sum up, make sure you are prepared for OptomCAS. The submission process is already stressful with the knowledge that what you input could make or break you getting into the school of your dreams. By putting forth a few minutes to create an account, getting questions answered, and printing off a paper copy of your transcripts, you will have more time to relax and enjoy the process. Plus, it will make you that much more prepared for Part III: Interviews!
June 11, 2012
Optometry School Application Process Part I
I was recently asked by someone how the Optometry school application process went so seemingly smooth for me. After being shocked that I somehow effectively covered up my 24/7 stress for 9 months, I sat down and wrote out how I made it work without always being overwhelmed.
I have decided to divide up my process into 3 parts to make it easier to follow along:
I. Preparation
II. Submission
III. Interview
Today I will discuss the "Preparation":
I first started exploring the idea of Optometry in the fall of 2010. A few family friends and co-workers had mentioned the career thinking it would be a good fit for my quiet, but friendly personality. An old family friend was a private practice Optometrist, so I contacted him and asked if I could shadow for a day. After 1 visit I could see why people thought of me when they thought of Optometry, but I still wasn't convinced. I enjoyed how the Optometrist could create a conversation with the patient, analyze the problem, solve it, and improve the person's eyesight within one visit. But, it was sooo routine. My OCD side loved this, but I wondered if I would get bored in the long run. So, I contacted a few other Optometrists in the area, at larger practices and HMOs, to see if I would like a faster pace setting.
Loved it. Specifically, all of the eye diseases I was exposed to in a single day of observation. Not just cataracts, not just astigmatisms, but also detached retinas (post-opt), macular degeneration, and pink eye (last one, not so fun). I was hooked and wanted more. So, I looked into what was necessary to apply to Optometry school. Holy moly, a lot!
Apparently I needed to take an OAT (Optometric Admissions Test)? Three letters of rec, a personal statement, at least 30 hours of observations, and wait... I had to take another psychology course? Yikes. I realized I was not prepared for applying to enter with the Fall 2011 class. So, what did I do? I prepared for Fall 2012. And made a Timeline checklist (these months were during the year of 2011 to enter the following fall):
So, Kaplan course started in January and went through April of 2011. Early on I spent 2-3 days a week studying for a couple hours with the other days either relaxing, working on a very rough draft of my personal statement, and confirming letters of rec. In other words, I multi-tasked like no ones business. I also committed to a test date for mid-May (a few weeks after the course ended). By sticking a proverbial carrot in front of myself, I had more determination to follow through with the late night study sessions as time went on. By April, I left the personal statement alone, ignored everything, and became good friends with the librarians.
After a celebratory drink for completing "the beast", I double checked my pre-req situation and signed up for a summer online psychology course. Since I had given some time in February towards my personal statement, I didn't have to waste extra time figuring out how to start the essay. I was able to look at my rough draft from a new perspective.
Because stress was over taking my life, I logically decided to take a nice break and go to my family reunion in Durango, CO. I didn't think about Optometry, schools, or applications during this week in June. It was a great distraction and because of my preparation in earlier months, I knew I would be ok. If you plan early, breaks are more enjoyable and won't feel like a time waster. And, they are nice goals to look forward to (stick that carrot in front of you)!
After the glorious week off, I got back to work on my personal statement. I actually took longer with this than I initially planned for and didn't complete the statement until mid-July. In the end I spent about a good month editing, re-editing, reviewing, and word crunching to make it "me". This couldn't have happened without many people reading and providing feedback. Other people have great insight about grammar, flow, and oh yeah, cool qualities about you that you sometimes forget!
Once I was done with the statement, did a last confirmation with my LORs, I was ready to submit. And have a good drink.
So, while I was stressed from January until July, I was able to manage my time and multi-task early on in order to make May through July not seem as stressful to me. Next time, the submission process!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
I have decided to divide up my process into 3 parts to make it easier to follow along:
I. Preparation
II. Submission
III. Interview
Today I will discuss the "Preparation":
I first started exploring the idea of Optometry in the fall of 2010. A few family friends and co-workers had mentioned the career thinking it would be a good fit for my quiet, but friendly personality. An old family friend was a private practice Optometrist, so I contacted him and asked if I could shadow for a day. After 1 visit I could see why people thought of me when they thought of Optometry, but I still wasn't convinced. I enjoyed how the Optometrist could create a conversation with the patient, analyze the problem, solve it, and improve the person's eyesight within one visit. But, it was sooo routine. My OCD side loved this, but I wondered if I would get bored in the long run. So, I contacted a few other Optometrists in the area, at larger practices and HMOs, to see if I would like a faster pace setting.
Loved it. Specifically, all of the eye diseases I was exposed to in a single day of observation. Not just cataracts, not just astigmatisms, but also detached retinas (post-opt), macular degeneration, and pink eye (last one, not so fun). I was hooked and wanted more. So, I looked into what was necessary to apply to Optometry school. Holy moly, a lot!
Apparently I needed to take an OAT (Optometric Admissions Test)? Three letters of rec, a personal statement, at least 30 hours of observations, and wait... I had to take another psychology course? Yikes. I realized I was not prepared for applying to enter with the Fall 2011 class. So, what did I do? I prepared for Fall 2012. And made a Timeline checklist (these months were during the year of 2011 to enter the following fall):
- Prepare for OAT and take by end of May
- Find 3 Letters of Recommendation, 1 being an Optometrist by end of February
- Begin rough draft of personal statement in February and refocus attention after OAT exam. Have final draft complete by end of June/early July.
- Double check prerequisites by end of March and take any courses if necessary during summer/fall
- Submit application on OptomCas by end of July
So, Kaplan course started in January and went through April of 2011. Early on I spent 2-3 days a week studying for a couple hours with the other days either relaxing, working on a very rough draft of my personal statement, and confirming letters of rec. In other words, I multi-tasked like no ones business. I also committed to a test date for mid-May (a few weeks after the course ended). By sticking a proverbial carrot in front of myself, I had more determination to follow through with the late night study sessions as time went on. By April, I left the personal statement alone, ignored everything, and became good friends with the librarians.
After a celebratory drink for completing "the beast", I double checked my pre-req situation and signed up for a summer online psychology course. Since I had given some time in February towards my personal statement, I didn't have to waste extra time figuring out how to start the essay. I was able to look at my rough draft from a new perspective.
Because stress was over taking my life, I logically decided to take a nice break and go to my family reunion in Durango, CO. I didn't think about Optometry, schools, or applications during this week in June. It was a great distraction and because of my preparation in earlier months, I knew I would be ok. If you plan early, breaks are more enjoyable and won't feel like a time waster. And, they are nice goals to look forward to (stick that carrot in front of you)!
After the glorious week off, I got back to work on my personal statement. I actually took longer with this than I initially planned for and didn't complete the statement until mid-July. In the end I spent about a good month editing, re-editing, reviewing, and word crunching to make it "me". This couldn't have happened without many people reading and providing feedback. Other people have great insight about grammar, flow, and oh yeah, cool qualities about you that you sometimes forget!
Once I was done with the statement, did a last confirmation with my LORs, I was ready to submit. And have a good drink.
So, while I was stressed from January until July, I was able to manage my time and multi-task early on in order to make May through July not seem as stressful to me. Next time, the submission process!
Until Next Time,
powerkat
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