How to Make the Most of Your Clinical Rotations

Clinical rotations are a pivotal part of your journey through optometry school, providing you with hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply the knowledge you’ve accumulated in the classroom. At New England College of Optometry (NECO), clinical rotations are designed to be immersive, diverse, and transformative. Here’s how you can maximize this crucial phase of learning during your time as a NECO student.

Getting Involved

Clinical experience at NECO offers a wide variety of learning opportunities, from primary care optometry to specialized areas like pediatrics, low vision, and ocular disease. Embrace every patient interaction, even in the areas you may not consider your primary interest. Each clinical rotation will broaden your skills and understanding, making you a well-rounded practitioner.

Tip: Be proactive in seeking out new experiences. If there’s a particular procedure or case you’re interested in, express your enthusiasm to your preceptor.

Building Connections

Your preceptors are your guides and provide invaluable mentorship during rotations. Building strong relationships with them can enhance your learning experience and help you with networking for future career growth and opportunities. Be open to feedback, ask thoughtful questions, and show your willingness to learn.

Tip: After each rotation, consider asking your preceptor for a brief meeting to discuss your performance, areas for improvement, and career advice. These conversations can be incredibly valuable for your growth.

Develop and Enhance Communication

Clinical rotations are your chance to refine and perfect your clinical skills and patient interaction. From performing comprehensive eye exams to managing patient care, this is where you transform from student to clinician. Take every opportunity to practice your skills and communication with diverse patients with ocular diseases under supervision at NECO clinical placements where we emphasize patient-centered care.

Tip: Keep a log of cases and patients you’ve encountered, noting your progress and areas where you need more practice. This will help you track your development and identify specific skills to focus on, like explaining complex concepts in simple terms.

Clinical rotations at NECO are a transformative part of your education. By approaching them with excitement, openness, and a commitment to patient care and learning, you’ll gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in your future career as an optometrist.