What are you reading right now?

"Currently I am reading 'Ego is the Enemy' by Ryan Holiday. It is a book about ambition, resilience and success. I feel that everyone should read it - it comes highly recommended."

Do you feed your mind on a regular basis? What kind of literature do you prefer and why? Talk to the interviewers about a book that you are currently reading. If you are not currently reading a book - talk about one that has impacted you the most.

"I am reading "The Alchemist" and "Moonwalking with Einstein."

"An autobiography called, " Not Your Average Nurse," by Maggie Groff. It details her journey of becoming a nurse from studying in London to working in Australia. She shares her mistakes but also highlights the life-affirming moments that made it all worthwhile."

Your work load at our school will be high. How do you handle stress?

"I handle stress very well and if you call my previous professors for references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure with a challenging work load, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will ask for help when necessary to alleviate some stress."

The interviewers want to see that you will be capable of handling the stressful workload associated with the optometry program at their university.Are you someone who is able to handle stress like it's nothing or do you implode when times get tough? Talk to the interviewers about your ability to manage the pressure of a heavy and challenging work load.

"Stress management is key for both mental and physical peace. Although in the past, I have not studied such a rigorous curriculum, I think time-management and exercise will enable me to deal with stress effectively."

"I handle stress well, in fact, I tend to work best when under pressure. I use time management and deadlines to my advantage and complete tasks on time. I also have various techniques I use to relieve stress including exercise and meditation when needed. While I haven’t studied as high a workload before, I am now in a position where I have great support at home so that I can fully commit to Optometry."

Many optometrists have an area of specialty in which they work. What area of optometry interests you the most?

"I have always had my eye on a specialty in vision problems due to brain trauma. I really like working on challenging cases."

Before your interview, you should conduct some research on areas of specialty that are offered in optometry. Some branches of optometry:- Vision therapy- Brain injury- Glaucoma - Macular degeneration - Neuro-optometric cases- Myopia control

"Ocular diseases are what interests me the most."

"The area that interests me most in optometry is vision therapy. I find it fascinating that optometrists are able to fix a patient's low vision problems by using various eye exercises. Not only does this improve the patient's vision and overall eye health, but it also allows the patient to perform daily tasks like reading and writing, without the use of invasive procedures."

"I am most interested in Behavioural Optometry. With the advancement of everyday technologies, the demand we are putting on our eyes is always increasing due to their excessive exposure to electronically produced information. I plan to educate my patients on proactive measures they can take to protect their vision and keep their eyes healthy."

Do you consider yourself a leader? When have you led a team?

"In my current school, I am the president of the social committee. I love that I have the opportunity to encourage student engagement while being a positive influence on the culture at my university. I am a natural leader because I start with leading by example. As a leader, I make myself available to others who need mentor-ship, a bit of assistance in adjusting to university life, or just a listening ear when they've had a tough day. I am confident in my leadership abilities when it comes to my career as an optometrist."

Perhaps you have led a club at school, been an assistant coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a local non-profit organization. You should always be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500, or a team of 2, you must display to the interviewer that you are capable of handling the responsibility that comes with being a leader. Talk about your desire to be a leader. Share with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be a face of confidence when challenges arise.

"At my last job, my boss took an unexpected leave for two days. We had another manager fill in; however, I quickly realized that this manager did not have a full understanding of our location and how we operated. I volunteered to work alongside him to ensure that our patients received the best service. In the end, we were able to tackle the busy weekend and kept up with our patients' needs."

"Yes, I do. I have previously worked in retail as a supervisor and routinely had to lead our team when management was not working. Within this role, I was also given the duty of “covid marshal” at the peak of the pandemic to enforce the regulation. Currently, I hold the role of Senior Laboratory Assistant in the Covid department of a pathology laboratory, a position I was promoted to within six months of joining the company. I am regularly involved in training and supervising staff."

What do you think will be your greatest challenge in completing optometry school?

"I understand that optometry school is going to be one of the greatest challenges of my life. I looked through the course outline here and, from what I see, I think the biggest challenge for me will be visual neurophysiology. I have heard that it is the most challenging course so I have already hired a tutor in anticipation."

The interviewers want to know about your knowledge surrounding the challenges of optometry school. It's great to wear rose colored glasses from time to time, but you must also be realistic when it comes to the difficulties you will face while earning your PhD.Before your interview, take a look at the course components. Are there any areas that you foresee to be a big challenge?

"I believe I will face a lot of challenges in completing this course, for starters this will be the biggest study load I’ve ever taken on so I expect there to be an adjustment period while I learn to manage the work. However, I believe the biggest challenge will be when the time comes to do clinical placements and learn to balance it with other life commitments."

As an optometrist, how will you keep in touch with your community's needs?

"Currently, I visit the old age home in my area on a regular basis and help the residents with their daily tasks. I think that volunteerism is incredibly important. For that reason, when I am an optometrist, I will be giving back to my community by offering free eye exams to those who cannot afford regular eye care."

The interviewers want to see that you have an interest in volunteering and giving back to your community. Talk about any volunteer work or community organizations that are close to your heart.

"I would love to lead a program in schools that bring awareness to eye health. With laptops and tablets replacing books and writing pads, I feel it’s critical to educate young people about the damage extended screen time can do to our eyes."

Why are you choosing optometry over other health care professions?

"When I was a small kid my grandfather lost his eye sight due to glaucoma and it was really difficult to see him feel so helpless and defeated. I wanted to help him but I didn't have the skills at that time. That's when I decided my medical specialty would be optometry. It's not as popular of a practice in the medical field, but eyesight is so important."

What is your motivation behind your desire to become an optometrist? The answer to this question can be very simple or really difficult depending on your situation. Are you truly motivated to become an optometrist or is this just one of many career choices for you? Think of the things that attract you towards a career in optometry. Perhaps it's the feeling of achievement when you help restore someone's eyesight or maybe a personal reason that motivates you. Whatever your main driver may be, remain positive and honest in your answer.

"I’ve had a fascination with the human body ever since I was young so there was no doubt that I would pursue a career in healthcare. I was stuck for a long time as to what area of healthcare I wanted to get into but when I reflect on which health providers have had the biggest impact on my life, my optometrist was very high on the list. I very vividly remember the day I got my first pair of glasses, it was like I was seeing the world again for the very first time, I had no idea how clear my vision could be. That is an experience I want to bring to people."

Do you have aspirations to own your own practice in the future? What appeals to you about business ownership?

"My ultimate goal would be to open my own practice one day, as I want to control the prices of my services and provide affordable optometry services to my community. I do have an entrepreneurial spirit so I feel that opening my own practice would scratch that itch as well."

The interviewer wants to know about your future plans and if you have intentions of joining an existing practice, or starting your own. Be honest about your plans and desire for your career path.

"My goal is to open my own practice one day as being able to manage and lead a team successfully is truly self-gratifying. Being able to take charge as an entrepreneur to make decisions and take risks will fulfill my vocation."

"Yes, I would like to open my own practice one day. If I am able to control costs, I can pass the savings along to my patients and offer affordable eye care."

"The ultimate goal would be to own my own practice one day. I want to run a practice that focuses on affordability, building ongoing relationships with our patients, and servicing the community through outreach programs."

When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be very disheartening, especially when involving a project that I have put a lot of time and effort into. I understand that setbacks happen often, and to everyone - despite their level of expertise or years of experience. If I experience a major setback I will take a few moments to internally debrief, get some fresh air if possible, or discuss what I could have done differently with a mentor. Then, I move on. Rather than dwell on my mistakes, I choose to learn from them."

Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. When you work in the medical field, those setbacks can be amplified. While attending university, even more so because your grades can greatly determine the success of your future career. Discuss with the interviewers how you typically cope with setbacks.

"Having setbacks is never easy; it is disappointing, but I believe instead of being disheartened, I try to effectively take action to see either how I can prevent this happening in the future or how can I change this to overcome the obstacle. Learning from our mistakes is the only way we are to improve and progress."

"I try to analyze what went wrong and try to focus on not making the same mistake again."

"I make every effort not to let setbacks affect my work. While setbacks are disappointing I try not to dwell on them. Rather, I use them as a learning opportunity, I reflect on how I can learn from them, use them in the future and move on."

How well do you think you have performed in this interview today?

"I feel that I was well prepared for the questions that you asked me today and am happy with my performance in this interview. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. Can I ask if there is anything I can clarify for you, or elaborate on, from today's conversation?"

This question is a stress test! The interviewers simply want to know if you are happy with your performance in the interview. There is always room for improvement; however, you want to avoid picking your interview apart. If you feel the interview went well: "I feel that I was well prepared for the questions that you asked me today and am happy with my performance in this interview. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. Can I ask if there is anything I can clarify for you, or elaborate on, from today's conversation?" If you feel you could have performed better: "I feel that I was well prepared for the majority of the questions you have asked me today; however, I would like to clarify my answer on one particular point...." Then, return to the question you may have stumbled on and answer how you would have liked to the first time.

"I think I have answered all questions honestly, and I am very happy with my performance."

"I believe I have performed well today. I was well prepared and answered everything asked to the best of my ability. Can I ask if there is anything I can clarify for you, or elaborate on?"

Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?

"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."

Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, an author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewers about who has inspired your life and why.

"My father is my mentor, and he inspires me."

"While I find inspiration in a variety of people and things I would have to say my mum has been my biggest inspiration. She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 18 years ago but she has never let it stop her from achieving what she wants. Her determination and motivation to achieve her goals have been infectious over the years."

How do you respond to feedback and criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

"Last year I received a low grade on a chemistry project. When I approached my professor about the low grade, he said to me 'You can do better. I expected more from you'. I was taken aback at first but once I had time to absorb what was said, I realized that he expected more from me because he had high expectations of what I was capable of doing. It was a compliment, and a challenge, all rolled into one! I re-did the assignment with more gusto and passion the second time around. My grade improved significantly and I did thank that professor for holding me to a higher standard."

The interviewers want to see that you are confident and mature enough to accept feedback and criticism in a positive way, even when it is unsolicited. Not all feedback will be delivered in a friendly, easy to absorb manner. Think to a time when you received feedback or criticism that was bit hurtful or surprising. Discuss how you reacted in a productive way. It is important that you highlight for the interviewers that you were able to take the criticism and learn from it. Talk about how you successfully implemented change.

"During one semester, due to family responsibilities, I couldn't perform as strongly as I would have liked. I emailed my advisor to seek counseling, and she told me to move on with next semester's studies. She had confidence that I would perform better."

"I invite criticism. I am always looking for feedback on how I can improve on what I’m doing, if I can do something better, I want to know.During my undergrad, I received a low grade on a lab report. It was the first lab report I had done at a university level so while I expected the grade to be a little lower than my average I was taken aback that it was significantly lower. At first, I was quite disheartened but I approached my tutor who took the time to review it with me. I took on all her feedback and applied it to my subsequent reports which greatly improved the quality of my work and thus my grade."

How does your family feel about you becoming an optometrist? Do you have a great deal of support?

"My family is incredibly proud of me for attending optometry school. My father is especially keen as he also graduated from this university. Both of my parents, as well as my older brother, live in the area so I will have a very strong and encouraging support system should I be accepted into your school."

The interviewers want to know that if you were accepted into their school that you would have the support required for your heavy and challenging work load. Discuss a bit about your family such as anyone who lives near you or how your family expresses their excitement for your career. You can also mention anyone in your family who may have had a similar path in optometry.

"My family is proud of my achievements and has supported me. When I described my interest in optometry, they are happy and very supportive."

"My family is incredibly supportive and they have been with all the study endeavors I’ve undertaken. They are overwhelmingly proud of me and my achievements. I also have a very supportive partner who is excited to see me pursue optometry and is more than ready to step up and help when I need it."

Which optometry related newspapers, journals or publications do you read to stay in touch with new industry discoveries, and current events?

"I am sure to read AOA News, and INVISION Mag, on a regular basis. In addition to these medical journals, I also subscribe to Berkeley Eye Center's online blog. It's important to diversify where your news comes from and I would love some fresh suggestions. What are your favorite places for news on current trends?"

The interviewers want to see that you have a keen interest in continually learning your craft. The optometry industry is ever changing! Talk about how you stay up to date on industry trends, new breakthroughs, optometry related concerns, and more. List a couple of optometry related medical journals that you like to read and discuss how often you dive into related news. Perhaps you subscribe to a particular magazine, blog, or follow certain social media accounts. It's also a great idea to ask the interviewers about their favorite ways to stay in touch on related current events. Asking this question in return can make for a great dialogue, and you never know what you will learn!

"I regularly read Optometry Today, which provides me with the most current developments and stories within Optometry."

"I read the AOA News and other industry publications."

What other schools of optometry have you applied to and where does our school rank?

"I have applied to four other optometry schools. Those schools are A, B, C, and D. My interest in your university is strong because you are highly regarded in the industry. The reputation of your school is unmatched. I would be so proud to say that I graduated from this school."

The interviewers would like to understand the types of schools you are interested in. Knowing where you are applying will help them to better understand if their university will be able to meet your specific needs and educational desires or goals. You should be transparent when answering this question but be sure to avoid saying anything offensive such as 'this school is my last choice'. Pick out the number one reason why you want to attend their school and focus on that.

"I have applied to Salus, but Western MCHPS is my top choice."

"I have applied to four other optometry schools. I have applied to SUNY, MCPHS, Salus, and NOVA. That being said, my interest in your school is strong because of how many opportunities your students are given during their time at NECO. I would be proud to say that I have graduated from your school."

We want students who have a true passion for optometry. What appeals to you most, about working in the field of optometry?

"There are a number of factors that drive my passion for a career in optometry. If I had to pinpoint one main driver, I would say that helping others to see well, be able to read with ease, and drive safely, are all very fulfilling gifts to give others. Everyone deserves to have full sight, and I love the idea that I could help others in that way."

The interviewers would like to understand what drives your pursuit of a career in the field of optometry. Your core passion is what will keep you going on the toughest of days in university. For the interviewers to understand how to motivate you, they need to know what fires you up! It is okay to share a personal story when answering this question. Perhaps you can discuss what initiated your interest in attending optometry school to begin with. Whatever drives you, make sure the interviewers can feel your passion!

"I believe having the ability to be able to transform lives, bringing out the confidence within people, and, most importantly, improving the quality in which they live is genuinely self-gratifying. Helping others is what I have done from a young age, so to be able to continue to do so in my career, I feel that is why Optometry is the best fit for me."

"Being able to help people keep their eyes healthy."

"There are a number of things that have driven me to pursue optometry. I have a true passion for health in general but also a passion for helping people. With sight being one of our most valuable senses it will bring me much joy to help."

What achievement are you most proud of, so far, on your path to becoming an optometrist?

"The achievement that I am most proud of, so far, was completing my undergrad, top of my class. While maintaining very strong grades, I was also President of our school's Diversity Club, and I spent time volunteering at the local vision drive."

The interviewers would like to know what areas of achievement are most important to you. Perhaps you have maintained an exceptional GPA or maybe you excelled in school while also working a part time job. Maybe you finished top of your class and received a special award for your achievements. Think of any accolades that you may have received along the way.

"Completing a bachelor's degree is what I am most proud of."

"I am most proud of completing my undergraduate degree. Specifically that I was able to complete it while working and also helping care for my family."

Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 countries in the last 3 years to compete in a variety of races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit."

The interviewers would like to get to know you apart from what is written on your CV and school transcripts. You are certainly not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your relationship status, for instance. Stick with a couple of fun facts to show the interviewers that you are a real person, too. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate! For example, you might share that you enjoy beat-boxing or making origami swans. Be prepared for the interviewers to ask you to perform your skill on the spot when its possible! (This will make you unforgettable!)

"I love reading books and doing yoga."

"I enjoy fostering cats when my local cat shelter becomes full. I get to care for a variety of cats including some that have not been around people very much and need some behavioral therapy before they are ready for adoption. When I am unable to foster, I will knit blankets and collect towel donations to give to the shelter as well."

What research did you conduct before choosing to apply to our school?

"I was sure to conduct a great deal of research before applying to your university. I started by interviewing some alumni that I know, and I also spoke with a couple of your current students who are in the optometry program. Last year I attended the open house here as well. Your school left a very positive impression on me which is why I chose to apply here."

The interviewers want to know which considerations you put in before sending your application to their university. What they really do not want to hear is that you blindly sent out a million applications, hoping that something would stick. Share with the interviewers the consideration you put into your application. Some methods of consideration could have been: - Talking to / interviewing alumni of the school.- Attending an open house at the university.- Extensive online research.- Researching who the most renowned graduates of their optometry program are.- Meeting with a career counselor and asking for recommendations. - Speaking with a current student at the university, specifically someone in the program you are interested in.

"Having spoken to many students who either currently attend here and those who attended in previous years, it provided me with insight not only into Optometry at Aston but the University as a whole. I've also researched how the course is taught, which modules are covered, and how assessments are conducted. Doing so left a positive impression that led me to apply here."

"I went to the school's social media and visited the website for information."

"I have friends who have studied at UWA and have enjoyed their experience. I had also attended UWA previously when I started my master's and had a good experience too. Finally, I reviewed the course outline to see the units offered as well as confirmed it is now an accredited course."

Tell us about an area of weakness that you would like to improve on while attending university.

"I believe I could improve on my written and verbal communication skills as I tend to be more blunt than I would like to be at times. I have enrolled myself in a week long workshop this summer with the goal of becoming a more eloquent communicator. I hope to gain skills in this workshop that I can continue to utilize during my university career."

Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for your success as an optometry student. You can be candid in your answer; recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness. Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community centre. We are all human with our own weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!

"One of my biggest weaknesses is procrastination. This is something I have worked on throughout all my studies and continue to work on. A method I have found that helps is to break large tasks into smaller and easier attainable goals so the task I need to complete feels less overwhelming and then I'm less likely to put off completing it."

What do you know about our university?

"The passion for community and elevated learning at your school really jumps out to me. It is probably why you are the longest standing university in the entire state. I also love the effort that your school puts in when it comes to residencies and placements for your optometry school graduates. It is very obvious that your faculty goes beyond the general expectations of a university to ensure it's students' success."

It's likely that the interviewers have seen hundreds of applicants, so a question like this is an opportunity for you to stand out. If you are lucky enough to land an interview, make some effort to conduct research on the school. You don't need to be an expert on their entire history, but you do need to be knowledgeable on their programs, culture, and recent accolades. Start by searching their website and take special note of any recent news articles, events or contributions they have made to the community or student body. Identify their mission and values so that you can be clear on what they stand for.

"MCHPS has great program outcomes, like higher board rates, student support, student placement."

"UWA is ranked in the top 100 universities worldwide, has a 5-star teaching quality rating as well as has a high graduate employability rate."

What questions do you have for us about our university?

"I would love to learn more about this university, from your perspective. What is the biggest competitive edge you have over your competitors?"

It is very important that you come to your interview prepared with questions for the interviewers. Having prepared questions shows the panel that you are keenly interested in what they do, specifically, at their university. Remember that people like to talk about what they know! By having insightful questions prepared, you are setting the stage for the interviewers to tell you many important and helpful details about their process, and their educational facility. Keep the majority of your questions academically related. Asking too much about the culture, social life, and extra-curricular activities may cause you to appear unfocused.Here are some ideas: - If you could give me any piece of advice, what would that be? - Is there anything in my application, or anything that I said in today's interview, that I can clarify for you? - What is the most important thing I should know about my first week at your school, should I be accepted? - Can you tell me about some of the exciting opportunities I could take advantage of, should I attend your university? - What do you feel is the most unique offering at your school, compared to others in the area?

"What would you say that stands out about this University in particular in comparison to any of the other universities?"

"What do you think is the school's biggest attribute for its students?"

"Are there many opportunities or groups relevant to this course that I could take advantage of?If I were to be accepted, what is the biggest piece of advice you can offer about undertaking this course?"

Talk to us about your current GPA.

"I graduated top of my class and am very proud of my accomplishments during my undergraduate studies. The experience taught me to study hard and set attainable goals for myself."

Are you satisfied with your current GPA or would you change it if you could? Talk to the interviewers about your undergrad experience. If you were satisfied with your GPA: "I graduated top of my class and am very proud of my accomplishments during my undergraduate studies. The experience taught me to study hard and set attainable goals for myself." If you were not satisfied with your GPA: "I feel that my GPA could have been higher; however, I was working full time while attending classes. All in all, I did learn a lot about discipline and commitment."

"Honestly, my GPA could be better, I don't feel it's a true reflection of my academic level. Unfortunately, throughout my previous studies, I had a lot of other outside commitments that influenced how well I performed. I also had trouble with exam anxiety, however, I now have a routine of mental exercises that help me through it."

We believe in the continual development of our students, both professionally and personally. What is your self-development plan?

"I agree that self-development is crucial for continual growth and achievement. I am committed to investing in myself and some of the ways I do this is by attending personal development workshops, and meeting with my mentor once per month."

Having a self-development plan is incredibly important for anyone. The interviewers want to know what your plan is, and how attending their school will be beneficial to that plan. If they are going to invest in you, they need to know that you have a plan in place for investing in yourself also. Some ideas for self-development: - Listening to an inspiring podcaster- Attending personal development workshops- Spending time volunteering in a capacity related to your career goals- Utilizing a mentor - Hiring a tutor - Learning another language- Reading books associated with success

"I feel self-development is very important; it allows us to fulfill our potential. My plan to reach mine is to join new clubs and societies in University, such as; Aston's Optics Society, which will enable me to expand and create a broader skillset to develop myself beyond academia."

"I would want to be involved in campus activities."

"I agree that continual development is crucial to reaching our full potential. I intend to join the OSWA social group to develop my networking skills and continue to listen to educational podcasts and TED talks."

What do you feel is the single most important quality an optometrist should possess?

The interviewers want to see that you have some insight into the desired qualities and characteristics of a successful optometrist. This is an opportunity to give a unique answer so try to dig deeper than "strong attention to detail" or "strong communication skills". Some ideas for you: - Unrelenting drive- Desire for improvement- Accountability - Patience and Fortitude- Integrity- Optimism- Self Confidence

"I believe to be a successful Optometrist, one of the most important qualities is to be ethical in practice, which builds healthy rapport between patients."

"Listening to patients and paying attention to details."

"I believe that one of the most important qualities an optometrist should have is a continuous drive to be a better optometrist. This drive will allow for the optometrist to continuously improve themselves and their practice. As someone who wants to get into this field, this continuous drive should be there from the moment you realize that you want to become an optometrist, and it should only grow more and more during your career."

"The most important quality is actively listening to the patients and acknowledging their concerns. This is important to build trusting and long-lasting relationships with patients."

Why should our school accept you over another optometry student with the same qualifications?

"I believe I am the strongest student for your optometry program because I am incredibly dedicated to my professional and personal development. Since beginning my undergraduate program I have committed to taking a personal development workshop twice per year. The topics have included communication, person-ability, multi-tasking, organization, and even persuasive writing. I plan to take these skills and apply them to my graduate studies as well."

The interviewers are looking for unique qualities and statements that make you stand out from the other students wishing to attend their university. Put yourself in their position. You are looking at multiple talented candidates, all have stellar grades, all have drive, and all have potential to be renowned alumni. What would be the primary reason to choose YOU over everyone else? Some things that make you a stand out candidate: - Recent volunteer work - An existing connection to the faculty or facility- A memorable and personal story of struggle and triumph - An unusual skill such as speaking multiple languages, or knowing sign language- An additional degree, diploma, or certification - Proof that you continually focus on personal and professional development

"I cannot say whether others are better than me because I don't know them. But, what makes me unique is that I am hard-working and I have a never-give-up strategy. I have proved time and again that I never allow a failure to reoccur. For example, I have improved my grades each semester and I've been involved in community service."

"I feel as though I have a strong application that portrays my desire to study Optometry. I am committed to this career, having undertaken work experience to not only develop my curiosity and understanding but appreciate the fast-paced environment that's always changing. I obtained a varied skill set, which includes; empathy, dextrous skills, and the ability to maintain focus for prolonged periods of time, which I believe will enable me to become a confident Optometrist."

"While I can't say I'm better than any other candidate I can say that if I am accepted I will bring a range of desirable qualities to the profession. I am driven and hard-working with a desire to succeed, qualities I will use to excel at my studies. I am also patient, understanding, and caring, qualities I will bring to providing excellent patient care."

Tell us about your overall academic performance, so far. Where have you excelled, and where could you improve?

"I am very proud of my achievements during my undergrad education. Those courses added so much value that I will bring to my graduate program. My best courses included X, Y, and Z. I feel that I excelled in these because they are related to the specialty I plan to end up in. As far as areas of improvement, I think that I can better myself in terms of time management. I overextended myself last semester with volunteer opportunities and my study time suffered slightly. Now that I have identified the reason behind my time management challenges, I will only see improvement, moving forward."

The interviewers want to know how your undergraduate program has prepared you for attending their optometry school. Discuss what interested you the most, and where you had the biggest challenges. While attending undergraduate studies, you likely learned some core skills that would be transferable.Think about what you learned:- Time Management- Creative Thinking - Proposal Writing- Public Speaking- Presentation Building- Independent Learning- Academic Research- Self-Motivation

"I am proud to have excelled in high-level courses and completed my bachelor's degree. However, I think I could improve my OAT scores."

"As it is seen from my transcript, I have a strong GPA, which I take much pride in, however, that's not to say that those grades came easily. I put in a lot of work and dedication in order to get those grades. Sure there are some classes that might have been less challenging than others, that being said, I still put just as much effort into those classes as I did in the harder classes. I have excelled in many science classes such as biology, chemistry, orgo, and physics. However, I know that I could have done better in my calculus classes since I did receive a B+. The classes that I excelled in and need improvement have taught me how to improve my time managing skills and use the time wisely, while studying the material."

Optometry school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at our school, and beyond?

"I have been making arrangements for many years to afford attendance to optometry school. My finances are in good order."

The interviewers want to be assured that you will be able to afford the tuition associated with attending their school. Optometry school is an investment and you need to be sure that you can handle the financial requirements associated with your acceptance. Keep your answer brief, and to the point. Simply let the interviewers know that you have a solid financial plan for your schooling.

"Yes, I have planned my finances. I took one gap year so that I can afford the education."

In your opinion, what is the most concerning topic facing optometry today?

"I feel that the most concerning issue in the field of optometry is the fact that many children do not receive regular eye exams. Affordable exams should be accessible to anyone, regardless of their financial or social status, which is why I plan to offer free exams to children under 12 years old, when I open my own practice. What do you feel are the most concerning issues facing the medical industry today?"

Being an aspiring optometrist means that you need to take a keen interest in current events by closely following the challenges the industry faces. The interviewers want to see that your interest is deep and that you spend time learning, and understanding, the challenges you will face in your future career as an optometrist.Discuss what you feel to be a primary concerning issue, and be sure to ask the interviewers what they personally see as the most concerning issue in the field today. This is an opportunity to start a very insightful conversation.

"I think the rise in online retailers and insurance issues."

It is important that our school exercises great discernment when choosing applicants. What is your plan if you are not accepted into our optometry program this year?

"Should I not be accepted into optometry school the first time, I plan to reapply the following year. I would take that year to upgrade any required courses and prepare an even stronger application. My life's goal is to become an optometrist and I certainly won't take one rejection as a final answer."

The interviewers want to know that you have thought out all options, and scenarios, in the event that you are not accepted into their optometry program. The way that you answer this question will show the interviewers that you have an interest in the field of optometry that goes deeper than your immediate acceptance into their school. Let the interviewers know that one rejection won't stop you at all! Talk about your plan to reapply, if rejected. It is important you show the interviewers that you have confidence, and drive. It'll take more than one rejection to keep you down!

"Optometry isn't just a dream that I would forget and move on, it's my goal, which I need to achieve. If not today, then tomorrow; rejection would surely be a disappointment but I would reapply and try to improve in lacking areas."

"Optometry is what I want to do so if I don't get through this time I will continue to reapply. In the meantime, I will continue to work on the qualification I already have."

Optometry School Interview Questions

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1. What are you reading right now?
2. Your work load at our school will be high. How do you handle stress?
3. Many optometrists have an area of specialty in which they work. What area of optometry interests you the most?
4. Do you consider yourself a leader? When have you led a team?
5. What do you think will be your greatest challenge in completing optometry school?
6. As an optometrist, how will you keep in touch with your community's needs?
7. Why are you choosing optometry over other health care professions?
8. Do you have aspirations to own your own practice in the future? What appeals to you about business ownership?
9. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
10. How well do you think you have performed in this interview today?
11. Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?
12. How do you respond to feedback and criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?
13. How does your family feel about you becoming an optometrist? Do you have a great deal of support?
14. Which optometry related newspapers, journals or publications do you read to stay in touch with new industry discoveries, and current events?
15. What other schools of optometry have you applied to and where does our school rank?
16. We want students who have a true passion for optometry. What appeals to you most, about working in the field of optometry?
17. What achievement are you most proud of, so far, on your path to becoming an optometrist?
18. Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.
19. What research did you conduct before choosing to apply to our school?
20. Tell us about an area of weakness that you would like to improve on while attending university.
21. What do you know about our university?
22. What questions do you have for us about our university?
23. Talk to us about your current GPA.
24. We believe in the continual development of our students, both professionally and personally. What is your self-development plan?
25. What do you feel is the single most important quality an optometrist should possess?
26. Why should our school accept you over another optometry student with the same qualifications?
27. Tell us about your overall academic performance, so far. Where have you excelled, and where could you improve?
28. Optometry school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at our school, and beyond?
29. In your opinion, what is the most concerning topic facing optometry today?
30. It is important that our school exercises great discernment when choosing applicants. What is your plan if you are not accepted into our optometry program this year?

Optometry School Interview Questions

1. What are you reading right now?

2. Your work load at our school will be high. How do you handle stress?

3. Many optometrists have an area of specialty in which they work. What area of optometry interests you the most?

4. Do you consider yourself a leader? When have you led a team?

5. What do you think will be your greatest challenge in completing optometry school?

6. As an optometrist, how will you keep in touch with your community's needs?

7. Why are you choosing optometry over other health care professions?

8. Do you have aspirations to own your own practice in the future? What appeals to you about business ownership?

9. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?

10. How well do you think you have performed in this interview today?

11. Who in your life mentors, or inspires you?

12. How do you respond to feedback and criticism? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

13. How does your family feel about you becoming an optometrist? Do you have a great deal of support?

14. Which optometry related newspapers, journals or publications do you read to stay in touch with new industry discoveries, and current events?

15. What other schools of optometry have you applied to and where does our school rank?

16. We want students who have a true passion for optometry. What appeals to you most, about working in the field of optometry?

17. What achievement are you most proud of, so far, on your path to becoming an optometrist?

18. Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.

19. What research did you conduct before choosing to apply to our school?

20. Tell us about an area of weakness that you would like to improve on while attending university.

21. What do you know about our university?

22. What questions do you have for us about our university?

23. Talk to us about your current GPA.

24. We believe in the continual development of our students, both professionally and personally. What is your self-development plan?

25. What do you feel is the single most important quality an optometrist should possess?

26. Why should our school accept you over another optometry student with the same qualifications?

27. Tell us about your overall academic performance, so far. Where have you excelled, and where could you improve?

28. Optometry school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at our school, and beyond?

29. In your opinion, what is the most concerning topic facing optometry today?

30. It is important that our school exercises great discernment when choosing applicants. What is your plan if you are not accepted into our optometry program this year?