In preparation for not only the interview but for your career in a profession where communication is key! Here are 5 books I recommend to facilitate better communication, which always begins with a better understanding of human nature—the common theme to all of these books. The Medical School […]
“You don’t know what you don’t know.” Nobody knows for sure who said it— it is wisdom often overlooked. I’m remembering back about 34 years ago: despite all the reading I’d done to prepare myself to be a new mother, I was overwhelmed with taking care of a […]
As you prepare to interview, having a vision for how you want to practice optometry is key. Most applicants limit their perspective of optometry by considering it solely in its traditional clinical context, meaning they think of their future solely in terms of delivering patient care. This is […]
“What contribution do you hope to make to our optometry program and to the optometric profession?” is a question you will most likely to be asked during the application process. How do you answer a question like this? More importantly, why do admissions officers ask this question? What […]
To prepare for the interview, shadowing is the single most important experience you will need. The story you tell about your shadowing experience should be the key element of your response to that first interview question, “Why do you want to be an optometrist?” I see it year […]
Dr. Julie Schornack has been interviewing applicants at SCCO for more than 25 years. She is the Vice President and Dean of Clinical Affairs and also has the title of Assistant Professor. I interviewed her a few years back about what she looks for in an interviewing applicant. […]
Wouldn’t you like to start every exam by knowing the first question ahead of time? Of course you would! When it comes to the applicant interview, I know what the first question will be—best of all, I can tell you ahead of time so you can prepare. It’s […]
There are three things that anyone can do to make any human interaction go more smoothly: smile, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake. I thought about ending this article after that first sentence because it seems self-explanatory. Apparently it’s not because I see so many applicants […]
You’re kicking back at a BBQ enjoying leisurely time with friends and family. Your uncle sits down next to you and asks, “So, what are you doing with yourself nowadays?” Your mind jolts into high gear and your heart pounds as you think about your busy and stressful […]
The admissions process is intimidating—it just is. Taking the OAT, submitting your application, and preparing to interview are all just plain nerve-wracking. How do you get your brain wrapped around the process? How do you strategize for smooth sailing through this bumpy ride? Better yet, can you turn […]
Optometry Admissions Blog 