by Omkar Hehar, University of Waterloo
Entering higher education can feel overwhelming, especially since it can be hard to understand what to expect. Just like the transition from high school to undergrad, transitioning from undergrad to grad school can feel like another intimidating leap. However, there is no need to feel worried – although the culture tends to change between both programs, there are plenty of differences to look forward to. Here are some comparisons I made after completing my first year of optometry school – you might find them reassuring!
1. Mature students in grad school tend to be more serious about their academic studies and future. Though this is a generalization, I have noticed that older students have different priorities than younger students, especially given their age and current stage in life. They have learned to balance their academic and personal lives effectively, particularly after experiencing life as an undergrad. Being well rounded individuals has allowed them to understand how to study and have fun at the same time!
2. There is clear-cut professionalism in grad school, particularly between peers. Compared to undergrad, my classmates in optometry school are more considerate, respectful, friendly, and communicative with each other. I believe this is partially due to everyone sharing a common goal, so people naturally want to work together to achieve that goal – even when collaboration is not necessary or expected. For example, we promise to take turns practicing on each other during pre-clinic to help improve our practical skills! I really appreciate this collective class culture in optometry school as it helps to foster positive peer relationships and prevent a sense of competition amongst each other. On the other hand, even if you do need to work with classmates for group projects, you generally do not need to worry about peers not pulling their weight. Everybody has an innate sense of responsibility to fulfill their own part. It’s great to be able to easily collaborate with them, especially since you will likely keep in touch with many of your classmates later on as a future optometrist!
3. Relationships between students and professors are different in grad school. Depending on your program type, you may be working very closely with a particular professor and developing a strong relationship with them. In optometry school, though you will not likely consistently work with a professor one-on-one, they are very supportive and understanding if you need clarification, assistance or accommodations. In comparison, there is usually a very large class size during undergrad, making it difficult for professors to get to know students. However, in optometry school, even though there is usually a significant class size, professors will make an effort to recognize their students, especially since we are all a part of the same niche field of study. Personally, I never feel intimidated to approach professors as I realized that they are genuinely rooting for your success. So, feel free to get to know your professors personally!
4. Housing with roommates is not the same in grad school. This may seem like a strange comparison, but I noticed that it’s much easier living with other mature students. Older roommates or those in grad school are more respectful of shared living spaces and considerate of their roommates. Nobody wants to come home to a messy home with roommates that are hard to deal with, especially after a full day of classes and studying! Fortunately, there is no added stress of having to worry about roommates who do not pick up their slack. Even if you want to live alone, that’s great too! It is a perfect opportunity for self-growth and development. You are able to practice responsibility and independence at a critical point of your life.
Overall, these are a few comparisons I made after experiencing both undergrad and optometry school. I hope these insights help you feel prepared for life during grad school! Personally, I enjoy optometry school much more than undergrad. It has been one of the best experiences I’ve had so far and I’m looking forward to enjoying my next few years here. I hope you feel the same, especially since time will fly by, so enjoy it while it lasts! It may feel hard but it’s worth it and you’ll learn so much.
Here’s a microscope photo of an eyelid I took during an anatomy lab! This is just one of the many cool things I’ve learned about in optometry school!
