Thriving in your first year of optometry

Starting optometry is an exciting yet challenging journey. As a student rep and current optometry student, I know firsthand how overwhelming the first year can be—new concepts, practical skills, and the pressure to balance studies with life. But don’t worry! With the right approach, you can make the most of your first year and set yourself up for success. Here are some of my top tips:

Master the basics early

Optometry is a science-heavy course, and a strong understanding of anatomy, physiology, optics, and pharmacology will make everything easier later. Try to grasp core concepts early, especially the structure of the eye, refraction as these will be the foundation for ongoing studies.

Get hands-on with practical skills

Your first year will introduce clinical skills like retinoscopy, ophthalmoscopy, and slit lamp examinations. These are tricky at first, but practice makes perfect! The more confident you become with these skills, the smoother your second and third years will be.

Stay organised with your studies

Juggling lectures, practical sessions, and assignments can get overwhelming. Having a system in place early on will save you stress later.

Tip:

  • Use a planner or a digital calendar to track deadlines and clinic sessions
  • Create summarised notes for each module trust me, they’ll be lifesavers during exams!

Your lecturers, clinical supervisors, and older students are there to help—take advantage of their knowledge!

Don't be afraid to ask for help

It’s normal to struggle with certain topics or techniques. Your lecturers, clinical supervisors, and older students are there to help—take advantage of their knowledge!

Tip:

  • Join your university’s optometry society or mentor programs to connect with experienced students who can offer guidance

Develop good patient communication skills

Optometry is not just about clinical knowledge—you need strong communication skills to interact with patients effectively. Being able to explain concepts clearly and make patients feel at ease is just as important as clinical accuracy.

Tip: 

  • Practice speaking confidently and professionally with your peers. Use simple, patient-friendly language when explaining eye conditions or tests

Keep up with industry updates

Optometry is constantly evolving, with new research and technologies emerging all the time, such as Myopia Management. Staying informed will give you an edge. 

Look after yourself

First-year optometry can be intense, but burning out won’t help you succeed. Prioritise self-care, get enough sleep, and make time for social activities. A healthy work-life balance is key!

The knowledge and skills you gain now will shape you into a great clinician in the years to come.

Enjoy the journey!

Optometry is an amazing profession with a bright future. First year may feel like a steep learning curve, but embrace the challenge and enjoy the experience. The knowledge and skills you gain now will shape you into a great clinician in the years to come.

Good luck, and welcome to the world of optometry!

Nazanin, University of Bradford