The first year of optometry school is a big transition. It’s a time when students relearn how they study and what they are passionate about. Many students enter NECO with ideas and presumptions about what school will be like and what they want to pursue after graduation. However, once classes start and the opportunity to interact with kids in the field after second semester, many students begin to see their academic and career paths shift.

This experience rang true for Aubrey Gall, member of the OD Class of 2025. She shares her advice and insight into her journey with Grant Zimmerman, member of the OD Class of 2028.

Aubrey in her new scrubs ready for optometry school when she first moved to Boston.

GZ: What is your plan after graduation and how has that changed from your first year?
AG: My plan is to join a private practice in Charleston, SC, where I will be specializing in primary care optometry. When I first started at NECO, I envisioned a career in pediatric optometry. However, as I gained more experience, I realized how much I enjoy working with patients of all ages and didn’t want to limit who I was treating throughout my day.

GZ: What was something you stressed over in OD1 that you later realized was unnecessary?
AG: Clinical Skills Exams (CSEs) don’t have to be as stressful as we make them out to be. Practicing and preparing as much as possible is important, but failing a CSE isn’t the end of the world. Retaking one isn’t something to be ashamed of—you will pass eventually. Your professors are there to help and want to see you succeed, so try to keep that in mind!

Aubrey (third from left) with friends at an AOA summit in DC during her third year.

GZ: What’s one can’t-miss NECO event?
AG: The Eyeball is always a great event! I love that it’s somewhere different each year, making it a unique experience every time. The OD3 student council organizes it and always reflects each class’s unique personality. It’s also great to see everyone dressed up and out of scrubs, including our professors!

Aubrey (right) with friend at NECO event

GZ: What has been your favorite experience in your fourth and final year?
AG: My favorite part of fourth year has been getting to know my patients better in clinic and consistently seeing the same patients for follow-up appointments. It’s during these visits that you really start to understand the pros and cons of different treatments and see the results firsthand.

I also love getting to experience new places throughout my final rotations—even if it’s just exploring different neighborhoods in Boston I hadn’t worked at before.

GZ: What advice would you give someone going into their second year of the OD program?
AG: My advice for someone starting second year is to find a balance. If you don’t make time for fun and relaxation, burnout is inevitable. You’ve got a few more years ahead, so find a hobby or some friends to unwind with. Take breaks when you can, but stay motivated! Finding that balance of studying and working with resting and adventures is what kept me refreshed and able to come back to school fully motivated and even excited to switch into optometry mode. I promise these next few years will fly by, so don’t forget to enjoy your new home and friends while you can!