Something I think everyone will experience when entering optometry school is that everyone just can't wait to be done with first and second year. Third years are envied for being able to see "real" patients and working in clinic much of their week. Although they still have classes and tests, its a lot less than previously.
Well, I'm happy to say, I'M FINALLY A THIRD YEAR! It's been an exciting process and I'm happy to say it's actually going a lot better than I had expected!
My first day in clinic was about a month ago and I was so nervous! I knew we had been taught everything we needed but what I wasn't sure about was if I remembered it! The thing I discovered very quickly is that you don't have to remember absolutely everything. That's what your staff doctor is for. They are so helpful and although it's nice to impress them every once in a while, they know we all can't remember everything.
I've been in clinic a little over a month now and I'm happy to report that my nerves have calmed down a lot. I've been really enjoying my patients and I feel like my exams are speeding up and I'm getting into my "doctor" routine. I've seen a lot of different abnormalities in my patients and felt like I've learned a lot in the little time I've had so far. I'm looking forward to an exciting year and am glad to finally be in the "golden years" of school!