Making friends while a student in optometry school is a key component to fostering a sense of belonging throughout your four years. You’ll find there are many opportunities during first year to meet your classmates. Whether it’s at orientation, while meeting potential roommates, during classes or labs, or even walking around the neighborhood.

Reeta (left) with friend Michelle at their White Coat Ceremony

Finding a group of people to support you — people who are willing to help you study and reach your goal of becoming an optometrist — makes your time in school much more manageable. Optometry school is rigorous and challenging, but having a support system of friends to learn from and enjoy fun moments only boosts your well-being and reduces stress.

Reeta with friend Michelle outside NECO Center for Eye Care

I am so glad that I made great connections with friends at the beginning of first year. Since then, we have worked on assignments together, studied for exams, celebrated finishing each exam, and attended many school and non-school events.

We have come to understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses and regularly work together to fill knowledge and memory gaps. We remind each other of upcoming deadlines, celebrate successes, and join together during times of mutual stress.

Reeta and friends at NECO Olympics

“My friends have become my family during these couple of years in Boston and away from home,” shared Michelle Vaca, OD26. About 30% of students at NECO come from outside the US, many traveling from across the world and leaving friends and family behind.

Reeta and Michelle at Eye Ball

The relationships you make during school can become a lifeline amid the stress and pressure of being in graduate school. I am forever grateful for all the connections I have made and I’m confident that these friendships will last a lifetime!