How many people interviewed you?
| Response Average | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 2.09 | 54 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Positively | 44 |
| Negatively | 5 |
| No change | 6 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 5.31 | 54 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 7.98 | 55 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.53 | 55 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| In Person | 0 |
| Virtual | 1 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 5 minutes | 0 |
| 10 minutes | 0 |
| 15 minutes | 1 |
| 20 minutes | 2 |
| 25 minutes | 3 |
| 30 minutes | 7 |
| 35 minutes | 12 |
| 40 minutes | 3 |
| 45 minutes | 19 |
| 50 minutes | 3 |
| 55 minutes | 1 |
| 60+ minutes | 3 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| At the school | 53 |
| At a regional location | 0 |
| At another location | 1 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| One-on-one | 40 |
| In a group | 14 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Open file | 14 |
| Closed file | 40 |
| Response Average | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 2.09 | 54 |
"Tell me about your clinical experience"
"What was an adversity you faced?"
"What is an adversity you have faced?"
"What was your journey in determining that optometry was for you?"
"why SCCO"
"Why healthcare? Why optometry?"
"What do you know about the current legislation of optometry?"
"Define professionalism"
"When is a time you had to work with someone who you disliked or disliked you?"
"Why do you want to move all the way from Florida to California?"
"how many other schools did I apply to, and why did I pick those schools?"
"Tell us why you want to do optometry?"
"How do different optometrists work together?"
"Describe an ethical dilemma that you have witnessed (can be anything)."
"Define professionalism. (they still ask this... Still caught me off guard!)"
"How many other schools did you apply to?"
"Are you familiar with the different concentrations/residencies of optometry?"
"What do you do for fun?"
"How do you see the relationship of optometrists, opticians, and ophthalmologists in the future?"
"If I knew the difference between an optician, optometrist, and an ophthalmologist"
"Describe an ethical dilemma. Doesn't have to pertain to optometry."
"What can you bring to SCCO?"
"Why do you want to attend SCCO? What websites have you used to research the school? Would you still want to come here if it was in Iowa?"
"Why Optometry?"
"What do you like about optometry? Why not other health professions?"
"Do you know what the differences are between optometrists in California and Canada (where I am from)?"
"Why optometry instead of ophthalmology?"
"Describe an ethical situation. "
"Why do you want to become an optometrist?"
"What makes you feel confident that you know what you're getting into?"
"What is the difference between a customer and a patient?"
"Future of optometry"
"What is the difference between ophthamologists and optometrists?"
"Why did you choose optometry?"
"Whats the difference between opthamologist and optometrist, and why did you pick this one?"
"whats the field of OD?"
"Tell us how you decided that optometry was for you."
"Where do you see the profession of optometry in the future? "
"Why SCCO?"
"what attracts you to scco?"
"What is your opinion on HMO's?"
"What can you contribute to SCCO?"
"Talk about your military experience"
"Name a situation revolving around ethical dilemma"
"Tell me about yourself"
"What do you like to do for fun?"
"what are three strengths"
"Asked about my undergraduate research experience."
"Was there a hardship you encountered that made you how you are today?"
"What's the difference between an optician, optometrist, and opthamologist?"
"Which schools did you apply to, and why?"
"Why did you choose your major? (I'm in a human science major they've never heard of)"
"What was my favorite book"
"What ethical issues have you encountered while observing your optometrist?"
"Do you know any current students at SCCO and have you spoken to them about the curriculum?"
"Why did you take time off? Did you plan is? (I took 3 years off before applying)"
"We've noticed you shadowed alot of optometrists. besides the different settings, is there a reason as to why you shadowed so many?"
"Why are you interested in SCCO specifically?"
"What is the difference between the scope of optometry and ophthalmology?"
"Tell me about the specific moment or time when you realized that optometry was for you."
"If I thought that I could handle the rigorous workload"
"Name three reasons why you want to attend SCCO."
"Why should we select you for this position?"
"Define Professionalism."
"Why are you interested in Optometry? Have you shadowed any Optometrists or Ophthalmologists?"
"What instruments have you worked with? What insurances have you dealt with the most? (I think I only had these questions because I have worked as an optometric technician.)"
"What's an ophthamologist?"
"What inspired you to become an optometrist?"
"Do you have family members in the health care profession? If so what area? "
"What does an optometrist do?"
"What makes you unique?"
"What are your hobbies?"
"Can you handle a heavy courseload?"
"What is an example of an ethical dilemma in optometry?"
"Greatest weakness"
"what do optometrists do?"
"What is the difference btwn OD and Ophthalmologists?"
"Do you think you will ever be involved with politics in the optometry field?"
"whats the number one thing you look for in an optometry school?"
"Tell us more about your optometry experience."
"What type of leadership/volunteering experience do you have?"
"Do you think you'll have trouble adjusting to the quarter system?"
"How would you deal with a patient that did not pay their previous bill?"
"what contributions will you make as a student of scco?"
"Did you consider careers in other health professions, like pharmacy, dentistry, medicine, podiatry? Why not ophthalmology?"
"Why SCCO?"
"What made you think optometry was for you?"
"Why Optometry?"
"Why SCCO besides just the location?"
"what have I been doing in my gap year"
"Why do I want to pursue the OD/MS dual program."
"What's a goal that you have that has nothing to do with optometry?"
"What strengths do you have?"
"what is one thing I like best about optometry."
"What do you know about the scope of optometry?"
"Why should we pick you?"
"do you have any creative accomplishments?"
"Which specialty do you want to go into?"
"What does being professional mean to you?"
"What are you going to do if you aren't accepted to a school this year?"
"Please tell us about an ethical situation you have experienced and what you did."
"Optometry school is very difficult and you will need to rely on your classmates for help and you will even need to be willing to stay late at night and on the weekends to constantly practice. Tell me about a time where you dedicated your time to doing something daily where others relied on you."
"What mode of practice (independent, group, hospital, etc)"
"Name 2 things you will bring to SCCO."
"Why SCCO?"
"Why optometry and not ophthalmology?"
"Have you had any leadership positions?"
"What made you choose optometry? "
"What's an optometrist?"
"Where do you see yourself in 10 years from now? What type of practice?"
"Why did you apply to so many schools (I applied to 7)? What did you look for in each school? Why SCCO?"
"Tell me about current optometric legislation in your state?"
"What makes an optometrist a primary health care provider?"
"Do you know what modes of practice there are?"
"What is an ethical dilemma an optometrist may have to deal with?"
"What do you think the AOA does?"
"What do you know about practicing in California vs. where you are from?"
"Describe a leadership role in work or academic."
"Where do you see yourself in 10 years?"
"What do you do to relax?"
"What can you add to the SCCO community?"
"what did you do in your shadowing experience?"
"Have you ever experienced an ethical dilema while shadowing? How was it resolved?"
"How do you manage your time?"
"What are your goals after you graduate?"
"What types of leadership experiences do you have?"
"do you think optometrists should do more or less?"
"What are some current issues in the news relating to optometry?"
"How did you become interested in Optometry/ Why optometry?"
"What was an ethical issue you have faced and what did you do to resolve it?"
"How do your hobbies relate to optometry?"
"if not optometry what career would you choose"
"Give me an ethical dilemma in optometry."
"How many siblings do you have/ how does your family feel about you pursuing optometry?"
"Tell me something about yourself that wasn't in your essay, on your resume, and has nothing to do with optometry or your career goals."
"My interviewer asked about my opinions on other optometry schools and why I was considering SCCO"
"What is your least favorite part of optometry?"
"What was your favorite part about your major?"
"nothing too interesting"
"Would you be interested in going on another trip aboard similar to the one you went to?"
"What is one thing you would like us to know about you (that isn't on your application)?"
"Name a piece of literature (fiction or non fiction) that has influenced you"
"If I didn't go into optometry, what would I have gone into instead? (Made me think a bit)"
"Please tell us about an ethical situation you have experienced and what you did."
"What ethnicity are you?"
"What do you think is the most important issue facing optometry?"
"Do you think ethics is relevant to optometry?"
"What was your favorite historical period in American history? (I was a history major)"
"What do you think optometry school will be like (how different than undergrad)?"
"You are in an exam room with a man. The man's wife is sitting outside the exam room and she's pregnant. You talk to the man and it turns out that he has an STD because he was having an extramarital affair. The man refuses to let his wife know about this STD and affair. You are, by law, bound to this doctor-patient confidentiality. You cannot say anything to the man's wife about the conversation between you and the man. So, what do you do?"
"How many hours a week do you think the OD you worked for put in, including time both in and out of the office? Is there anything you think we should have asked (anything else you want us to know about you)? What books have you read lately?"
"None"
"How will you give back to the community when you are an optometrist?"
"None."
"If you could tell us something about yourself that you would want us to remember you by, what would it be?"
"What else are you passionate about?"
"What is some legislative news about optometry?"
"How do I relieve stress? (nothing too interesting from the questions)"
"Compare a shoe salesman with an optometrist."
"How do you see the future of insurance and optometry?"
"if you went to an island. which three things would you bring?"
"What do you like to do for fun?"
"What is the most important aspect about an Optometry school which influences your choice of schools?"
"Do you notice any tension between the optometrists you work with and the opthalmologists they associate with?"
"What is a ritualist? (It was one of the offices I held.)"
"Did you have any problems with your professors in college?"
"We see in your essay that you know a few students at SCCO. What have they told you about SCCO?"
"What kind of practice do you want to have?"
"What was an ethical issue you have faced and what did you do to resolve it?"
"On a scale of 1-10, what is your teachability and why?"
"if I did poorly in physics in college, how would I do in Optics in Optometry School"
"Give me an ethical dilemma in optometry."
"Name me an ethical issue that can arise in healthcare"
"Tell me something about yourself that wasn't in your essay, on your resume, and has nothing to do with optometry or your career goals."
"Optometry is a legislative career; how do you think this will affect you in the future?"
"When was a time you had to change how you felt about a situation?"
"Tell me about an ethical issue you've encountered and how you handled it."
"What ethical issues have you encountered while observing your optometrist?"
"What characteristics are you looking for in professionalism?"
"before we end this interview, is there anything you would like us to keep in mind during admissions review?"
"Describe a difficult situation where you had to make a decision that was unpopular"
"Give an example of an ethical dilemma related to optometry."
"Please tell us about an ethical situation you have experienced and what you did."
"Tell me something interesting about yourself. (I hate these open ended questions) Or the Do you have any questions for us. (I stared at them blankly.. don't do that)"
"None too difficult - it was sort of conversational."
"Name 2 things you will bring to SCCO."
"What other leadership roles other than the ones you listed in your cv?"
"Describe an ethical dilemma in the field."
"Why did you pick SCCO?"
"What do you think will challenge you the most about being an optometrist? What part of his job do you think the OD you worked for likes the least? What makes you think you have the self discipline it takes to study in your own time and succeed in optometry school? "
"Explain what makes you unique in comparison to your competition?"
"Nothing difficult. Just know what you are going to say when they ask why optometry, and why not another health care field. "
"What are the current issues optometry is facing?"
"Describe an ethical situation."
"What is managed care?"
"greatest weakness"
"scope of optometry: how has it has changed and evolved? "
"what are some current issues facing Optometrists?"
"What do you think of the current health care system? In what ways would you improve it?"
"How do patients pay? "
"How would you tell a patient that they have some disease?"
"if you had to tell you mom what an optometrist does, what would it be?"
"none"
"What do optometrists do? (I know it's an easy question, but it's also vague...)"
"What is service? (It seems simple, but it is difficult to define when you are on the spot because it is such a general question)"
"Do you think optometry is important? why?"
"Have you ever been involved in an ethical dilemma?"
"What is the relation between optometry and other profession?"
"What do you think you could contribute to SCCO?"
"What do you know about insurance?"
"I reviewed the highlights of my resume and life. Kept them fresh in my head - but I did not formally study any online questions."
"Practice with friends and family members"
"Looked at SDN interview questions and made a Word document with my answers for them, asked current SCCO students"
"sdn, made a document with a list of possible questions"
"SDN, youtube videos, current SCCO optometry students."
"I used this website and other sources to come up with potential questions each school might ask and answered them on a word document. Then I would record myself answering those questions"
"Looked up lists of questions optometry schools asked and answered them all on a word document. Did thorough research to form complete answers to all of those questions on the list (including legislative, current event, their school and all other schools I was applying to). Reread all documents available on Portal for the interview. Tried out a bunch of different interview outfits (and some last minute shopping). Ran some questions by a friend when I wasn't sure how to answer them (he came up with some good answers that made sense - ethical questions can be tricky)."
"SDN, re-reading my optomcas submissions."
"Prepared scenarios and experiences that could apply to a lot of different behavioral questions. Made sure I could recall examples quickly."
"These SDrN interview forums and my experience with a previous interview."
"Mock interview, SDN, SCCO's You Tube videos."
"Mock interview and looking at questions asked on SDN"
"SDN, compiled list of potential questions and practiced answering them"
"Look at the SDN forum, practiced with a friend"
"Sdn"
"SDN, mock interviews, review of legislature and Dr. Munroe's interview packets"
"SDN and reading through the school's website."
"SDN!"
"Spoke to current students, read previous questions on SDN, did research into current events in optometry."
"My friend gave me a print out of potential questions and his answers and I just went over that. I also did a few mock interviews with friends."
"SDN interview feedback, mock interviews, reading the responses to OptomCas & SCCO supplemental questions."
"Reviewed other questions posted on SDN, other sites, etc. "
"read interview feedback on studentdoctor.net talked to SCCO students and graduates mock interview with friend"
"Looked at SDN interview feedback. Compiled a list of possible questions and their corresponding answers. Did mock Q&A with friends. "
"SDN questions"
"I practiced questions from studentdoctor.net, spoke with several practicing optometrists, researched the school as much as possible, looked up optometry legislation, and practiced general interview questions with a friend applying for a masters program in another field. (Perhaps I over-prepared, but it gave me a lot of material to discuss!)"
"Looked over some questions I found on SDN."
"SDN, practicing questions, various optometry websites, Dr. Munroe's interview information"
"SDN, Dr. Munroe's email attachments, practising answers from a list of potential questions, reading about the school"
"Previous interview and med school interview questions (not a good idea)"
"Dr. Munroe's facebook page; sample questions from optstudent.com"
"SDN Dr. Munroe's Interview FAQs"
"Read questions from SDN & optstudent.com"
"Review own application/essays, took questions from SDN and prepared brief answers, read news articles"
"Previously toured the campus, researched the website."
"reading snd forums and interview feedback"
"had friends ask me questions, went over the SDN feedback stuff, read some articles"
"Reading student doctor forum, mock interview with my friend."
"SDN and read your essays"
"SDN, practiced, reserached about the history of optometry, AOA site"
"Read through SDN forums, optstudent.com, and other optometry websites. Re-read my personal statement."
"Reading comments on studentdoctor.net, practicing interview questions with spouse, researched opometry related news and legislations."
"SDN forums, optstudent.com, went to disneyland, universal studios and knott's berry farm to relax, have fun and calm my nerves"
"SDN was a hug help, watched the news, looked up issues in optometry"
"Gathering questions from SDN."
"reading forums, asking advice from the doctors i work for, "
"Didn't have much time except the night before - looked over possible questions from SDN, my school's career services handouts on interview tips, and some other websites. I had also attended an interview workshop hosted by career services at which we practiced a few interview questions and critiqued each other. I also checked out the AOA, COA, and a couple other websites, and I read the news headlines. But I still wasn't really well prepared for the current events and legislation and issues surrounding optometry questions."
"Read the SCCO interview tips thread on SDN"
"My interviewer kept the experience enjoyable and memorable by engaging me in a conversation. No stress at all!"
"My interviewer was a complete ANGEL. She was so easy. The interview was definitely conversational."
"It was much more relaxed and laid back than I pictured"
"Everyone was really friendly, the campus was nice, and the clinic was top-notch!"
"everyone was super friendly"
"The entire"
"The faculty was very warm and inviting. Their VR technology is awesome!"
"My interview Barry Weismann was candid, knowledgeable, easy to converse with and genuine."
"How nice the admissions office was, specifically Jane and Eryn. They're always quick to respond to emails and speak in an enthusiastic tone."
"The equipment, faculty, and curriculum were all immensely impressive. Externship sites to locations such as Spain were also extremely appealing. Great program!"
"I didn't expect to like the campus or the people as much as I did. I went in thinking I already knew where I wanted to go and I left wanting to attend SCCO."
"How friendly everyone is, the resources available to students, and the clinic."
"Dr. Vorhee read through the files of every single applicant and gave me very individualized attention"
"The location of the school"
"everyone was very friendly and created a comfortable environment"
"The staff"
"The faculty were very nice"
"Location and how friendly everyone was (including the interviewees)"
"The clinic is very modern and absolutely beautiful. Dr. Munroe was so enthusiastic during the tour."
"Interviewers and office people were nice"
"The campus was clean and welcoming."
"That all the staff were so polite and kind to me. Also that the interviewers were genuinely friendly and wanted to get to know me. P.S. I <3 Dr. Munroe"
"The clinical facilities & the diverse patient population. The campus is nice."
"The friendliness of the staff, the student I spoke with after the interview was very helpful, the location in Fullerton was better than expected, the facilities were fantastic. "
"the faculty at the school. Everyone is super friendly and warm. Especially Betty! "
"Everyone is really personable and friendly. They try to put you at ease the whole time. "
"The school is extremely clean."
"The school had great facilities, everyone was very friendly, and the other students at the interview seemed very qualified. It was also my first time visiting the area, and I loved the school's location and the rest of Fullerton."
"The location and the clinic. "
"The school itself was great! A strong clinical program and it was very nice and busy! The admissions staff were very friendly and made you feel comfortable. The interview was more of a conversation rather than an interview. They make you feel relaxed. The learning environment. You get the impression that it is a place where people help out one another and they truly care about you."
"The facilities. The clinic and library are really nice. "
"The location was excellent, the school was in a safe area."
"The school's facilities and friendliness of the staff."
"Staff/student friendliness, beautiful campus, Eye Care Clinic"
"Everyone was nice."
"The weather and how clean the campus is."
"how nice everyone was and the facilities were amazing"
"How friendly everyone was "
"The facilities, the positive attitude of the school staff and my other applicants, the people conducting the interview (it was friendly, more conversational like)"
"facilities"
"everyone was really nice, and the academic rooms were state of the art"
"The staff and students are always so friendly!"
"The staff, faculty, and students are all freindly and inviting. It seems like everyone knows one another and it's one big happy family."
"The facilities were amazing, especially the clinic that students learn in, the gym is also nice to have, the fact that the school is not just in one building, the weather, etc"
"The clinic was really impressive and the staff was really nice. I particularly liked the doctor who interviewed me."
"The Eye Clinic and location outside of SCCO."
"everyone was very nice, and the campus is really new, and the women's locker was spotless and smelled really good.. hehe"
"Everyone was really relaxed and friendly, we laughed a lot."
"Everyone was very friendly, beautiful campus, students were enthusiastic."
"Nothing, I was very happy"
"You have to drive about 15 minutes from the campus in order to get to the clinic"
"the interviewer ONLY asked me ONE question..."Why Optometry". After I was done saying why, he just said "ok do u have any questions for me". Disappointed in this school, especially for people who travel hundreds of miles for a "one" question interview. Glad I did not go there, just imagine the education if they really don't care what you have to say."
"Miscommunication with shuttle services to Ketchum Health Tour."
"The facility is small and the health center is a 20 min drive from the main campus"
"Dr. Voorhees' (vice president of student affairs) body language was rather closed off. I understood why she was officially there but it didn't feel like she added anything to the interview process other than to simply see your face. When asked what questions I had, it seemed most of the time she looked at me like I was bizarre and would ask me why I asked or was interested in ____ topic. She either genuinely didn't understand why I asked or misinterpreted my questions. Either way, her lack of understanding, scrutiny and questioning of my intentions was extremely off-putting. There were other things in her mannerisms that weren't as positive-feeling or welcoming as the rest of the staff I met that day."
"I wonder how diverse the patients are at the Eye clinic, since Fullerton isn't that big of a city."
"The interview day was a bit longer than it needed to be. I felt there were portions of the day that were unnecessary."
"The campus was ugly, especially administrative offices felt musty and was poorly lit."
"The interview process was not very organized. I had to wait after each step. The admissions staff did not seem very friendly"
"The tour was too short!"
"The lack of snacks. I had a morning interview so I was hungry."
"Lack of public transportation. You need a car to get around"
"Be aware of the interview given by Dr. Voorhees, kinda catches you off guard."
"Rain, but its not their fault. I've been unlucky to have it rain at all my interviews."
"That one of my interviewers cell phone kept vibrating for like 10 minutes during the interview."
"No food service on campus..just a fridge, microwave, & a vending machine."
"The 1-on-1 "conference" and the financial aid person seemed a little unorganized. "
"I was hoping to talk to some students on campus, but didn't get a chance to, because they were busy with exams."
"It was raining the whole time I was in Fullerton- but that obviously wasn't the school's fault."
"Dr. Nishimoto - he was very condescending. He pretty much dominated the interview not allowing anybody else to ask questions. Also the illegal question of asking whether or not I plan to have children...WTF does that have to do with optometry? Tour by the student was half-assed and unenthusiastic since they are forced to participate - it's not voluntary. "
"No cafeteria. Some older buildings but nothing bad."
"No cafeteria on campus but there are fridges to leave your lunch and places nearby to go to. Student didn't show up to my interview, but luckily one of my interviewers was kind enough to take me on the tour."
"Although the outside of the school looked very nice, the inside looked a little run down with older equipment."
"There was a fire outside during the interview, but that is not the school's fault =P"
"The interviewer was kind of a jerk. By the end of the interview I was sure he was going to ask me how I've even made it this far (even though I ended up being accepted). Also, there weren't students anywhere, other than the clinic, because it was a Saturday. Kind of disappointing. "
"None."
"The traffic and the mood of the interviewers. The main interviewer didn't even look at me nor shake my hand!"
"Nothing."
"A dumb essay topic, how does smart decision making or problem solving skill pertain to a successful optometrist? try writing a whole page..."
"there was 12 applicants total, not too much personal attention"
"Nothing"
"There doesn't seem to be much to do around fullerton, and I've heard that the traffic to go into anaheim or LA can be insane!"
"The only thing was that there didn't seem to be a whole lot of fun things to do in the area despite the fact that there's a bunch of colleges nearby."
"There weren't any students walking around campus so I didn't get a chance to talk to any students, except my tour guide."
"none"
"Some of the questions were a bit hard to answer."
"How laid-back the process is."
"It was just like a casual conversation with another person"
"Nothing!"
"That they only ask ONE interview question. Wouldn't have bothered spending $200 on applying to them."
"Nothing, I was prepared."
"None, I was prepared"
"What would be involved in meeting with the Vice-President of Student Affairs."
"Nothing- everything went smoothly and I felt prepared"
"How impressive the school would have been!"
"I wish I would have know that meeting with Dr. Vorhees was going to be a second interview with some very random questions."
"That I would have two interviews. The second was with the vp of admissions open file."
"that the interview may not be at the beginning. My group had our interviews at the end, so the whole day it was stressing me out."
"I could skip the tour if I have done it before"
"Essay question! But then again that wouldn't be possible, since we have to sign an agreement that we won't share the essay question"
"That is is not as intimidating as people made it out to be. The questions they asked were mostly follow up to parts of your answers. Thus, each interview set of questions will be different."
"I didn't realize how many people were interviewing that same day (about 30)."
"Dr. Voorhees' personality"
"That my interview would only be about 3 hours long."
"Not much"
"that you also have a "mini interview" with the vice president of student affairs."
"It is a long (4-5 hours)and exhausting day! There will be some down time, so really do bring something to do (or just chat with the other students there). The interviewers just want to get to know you, so be yourself!"
"After reading feedback from this site, I brought granola bars, water, a book, and even a resume/cv of my awards and research experience. However, I think I was the only one to bring these things (except maybe the book); water and snacks were offered and I ended up carrying around a bunch of extra stuff. "
"If I would've known what the interview was going to be like I would've saved myself some money and not fly there for the interview."
"Not to worry. They make you feel comfortable."
"That the interview would be like a conversation about myself and my motivations. (Remember to eat before your interview since you do not get any food. I was given water though)"
"I wish I would have known about this web site! Knowing more about optometric legislation would have been very helpful."
"How to relax."
"Parents don't really come along... haha :) Also, bring food because food isn't part of the deal."
"The essay prompt is a little weird, but it is do-able."
"More legal information about optometry,"
"That 30 minutes was long enough to write a one page essay"
"Nothing."
"This essay question."
"that family memebers do not usually go on tours, even though they are allowed too"
"Nothing"
"hmm. I Knew but is doesn't hurt to reiterate: Eat right before. 4 hours is a long time, espeically if you're nervous."
"That the interview would be question, answer, pause, next question. I expected it to be more conversational."
"?"
"Well, I wish I could've prepared answers to the questions a little better, I didn't have much time. So I didn't feel like I had a GREAT interview, but it wasn't bad either - I was confident, just not well-prepared. =P"
"Eat right before, and don't worry too much."
"I had an all around great experience from admission director to interviewer. SCCO is really an amazing school."
"Extremely friendly and welcoming environment. They are just trying to get to know you and there is nothing to worry about."
"SCCO is an amazing campus and has a great optometry program. They really seem to care about their students and all of the faculty and current students love it there. Also, there is a dual OD/MS program that is included in tuition for OD students! Overall, I had a wonderful experience during interview day."
"great interview process, awesome school!"
"Great school and friendly students and staff. I would say this was the most difficult interview out of the others I've done because my interviewer was more on the serious side however he was very friendly and engaging and I could tell that he was not intentionally intimidating."
"SCCO is still my top pick school but after the interview I was left feeling somewhat disappointed that Dr. Voorhees would be our liaison between students and administration. Everyone else was extremely friendly and enthusiastic and the interview day was pretty laid-back. I like the positive atmosphere at this school."
"MBKU is a very prestigious school, but I like the relaxed atmosphere of the admissions office, current students, and faculty."
"I was so impressed by WesternU's program!"
"there's a 30 minute writing sample on what is one that that you like best about optometry."
"It was a very organized interview process."
"I thinked I lucked out (compared to fellow interviewees) in terms of my interviewers. I had one really nice interviewer (whom I could easily read) and another who had a straight face but occasionally made a few jokes to lighten the mood. Other than the interview, everything else was very laid back! Be yourself and KNOW your application (esp. the optometric experience and extracurriculars). They will refer back to your application alot"
"I hope I get in!"
"I was fairly impressed. I was a bit nervous, as this was my 1st interviews. I have since been accepted, and interviwed at 2 other schools."
"it's nice to bring hard copies of your cv to give to the panel. Especially if you have updated your cv since submitting it to OptomCAS. I found that my interviewer really appreciated it bc he found it pretty difficult to read OptomCAS's CV printout. "
"I was really nervous for this interview (as I think most people should be), mostly because it was my first one and one of my top choice schools. The fact that everyone was so nice made it a little bit less stressful. I debated wearing a suit, but ended up being extremely happy that I did. I didn't know how I'd performed because I felt like some of the questions were really tough, but I ended up getting accepted :-)"
"The interview left me with a pretty negative impression of the school. "
"Bring snacks. They only provide water and assorted protein bars. There is a lot of downtime during the day."
"Schools is amazing. Staff/students are really nice. They make decisions every Monday, so I found out I was in a week after my interview:)"
"Make sure you eat ahead of time, lunch is not provided and you don't want to interview on an empty stomach! Also, don't bring your support crew to the interview. I saw someone who didn't know and had her parents following her around all day. It looked out of place."
"The interview itself really soured my view of the school, but not enough so that I won't go there."
"The interviewers were friendly. They didn't ask hard questions, just some that were a little trickier than others. But be calm and honest about what you say. The student didn't ask much. The essay was not bad. Make sure you know why you want to go there and have a good answer. Make sure to eat ahead of time, because you'll be there for a few hours."
"The school is step up very nicely. The student tour guide was friendly and was willing to answer all my questions. As for the interview, I felt that they were just out to get me and put me down. Regardless of the fact I was a good applicant. It was very disappointing."
"Overall, it was nice and calm because once you finish your on site essay, you get distracted with workin out financial aid info., and then talking to the admin assistant and then you walk into a conference room with 3 people who will help determine your future. =)"
"I was slightly nervous at first. But maybe I got lucky because my interview turned out to be more of a conversation than a hardcore interview. My interviewer was warm, sincere, and thoughtful."
"OKAY... I just want to get accepted."
"it was good, they seemed to rush. everything ran a little late but it was fun. meet good people, liked the staff, great experience"
"It was not intimidating at all! The interviewers (one prof and one student) were really nice - it was more of a conversation. It's also a really small campus - so if you've ever visited before, it's kind of boring to go through the tour again."
"Today was a great day. I received plenty of information about tuition and funding. I toured the campus, and must say it is impressive. The interview was not really stressfull even though it was a panel of interviewers."
"Overall the experience was a good one. When I went it was a weekday, so I was the only one there for the most part which was good in some ways. The interview was challenging, but I feel it gave them a really good chance to get to know me on a deeper level."
"I had a Saturday interview so there was 12 of us. We all sat in a room and had 30 min to write a one-page essay with various topics. Then we had a financial aid presentation for about a half and hour. Then we were brokeup into 3 groups. My group had interviews (30-60min, then a meeting with the dean to go over your transcript(30 min). The a campus tour given by a first year student who was really sweet and enthusiastic. Then we were free to go. The cool thing is that they make decisions on Monday mornings and told us we could call in the afternoon the find out before they even mail the letters."
"The interview was a bit more difficult than I expected with many questions asked. It was hard to decipher if the interviewers really liked you or not. Overall, the campus and location are really nice. The Eye Clinic was amazing. Staff were friendly."
"it was wonderful!"
"First we had to write a 30 minute essay on professionalism using one characteristic from a list of 3 they provided (everyone got a different one). Then we had a 30 minute financial aid talk, and then we split into 4 groups. My group went on a 1-hour tour with a 1st year student first, and then we did our interviews for about an hour (a little less), and then we had a 15-min consultation to make sure all of our application was completed and that we were on track, and what would happen next. We'll know our acceptance or placement on alternate list or rejection next week - they're mailing out letters on Monday (interview was Saturday). The interviews were closed file except for essays and optional one-page resume of awards and activities Tips and advice: Just make sure you're on your best behavior at all times, keeping good posture, smiling, and being kind and considerate to all people."
"Count on being at SCCO for at least 3 hours. The first 30 minutes is spent writing an informal 1-page essay. My topic was on professionalism and was really easy. The next 30 minutes is spent discussing financial aid. Then comes the 60 minute interview, and finally, a quick meeting with the VP of admissions to go over final details of your application (basically to tell you if you're missing anything). My stats were: Pre-req GPA: 3.7 Overall GPA: 3.3 TS OAT: 320 AA OAT: 310 **my OAT scores were pretty pathetic...but I think you just need to get over a 300 to be considered...thank goodness! 6 LORs (3 from professors, 2 from practicing optometrist, 1 from Bausch & Lomb) Experience: Optometric assistant for almost 3 years GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE AND I HOPE THIS POST HELPS!"
"Overall it was a great experience, much better than I had expected. The interview was pretty relaxed, no questions that surprised me or anything. Everyone was really nice."
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Student | 28 |
| Faculty member | 5 |
| Admissions staff | 17 |
| Other | 1 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Enthusiastic | 38 |
| Neutral | 13 |
| Discouraging | 0 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.60 | 52 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| In state | 32 |
| Out of state | 22 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 0-1 hour | 16 |
| 2-3 hours | 11 |
| 4-6 hours | 12 |
| 7+ hours | 10 |
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| Airplane | 20 |
| Automobile | 29 |
| Train or subway | 2 |
| Other | 0 |
John Wayne Airport (SNA)
LGB
John Wayne (SNA)
Delta and united airlines
Ontario
John Wayne Airport
Long Beach
Ontario International-was cheaper than LAX
LAX
John Wayne
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| At school facility | 0 |
| With students at the school | 3 |
| Friends or family | 13 |
| Hotel | 17 |
| Home | 3 |
| Other | 0 |
Chase Suite Hotel
Anaheim Fairfield Inn
Heritage Inn
Sheraton
Heritage inn (discount with SCCO interview letter!
Fairfield Inn
Comfort Inn
Fullerton Marriott
Holiday Inn Express
The Courtyard Mariott in Buena Park
Holiday Inn
Marriott at Cal State Fullerton
The Standard
Yes
Chase Suite Hotel
Anaheim Fairfield Inn
Heritage Inn
Sheraton
Heritage inn (discount with SCCO interview letter!
Fairfield Inn
Comfort Inn
Fullerton Marriott
Holiday Inn Express
The Courtyard Mariott in Buena Park
Holiday Inn
Marriott at Cal State Fullerton
The Standard
Yes
| Response | # Responders |
|---|---|
| < $100 | 13 |
| $101-$200 | 7 |
| $201-$300 | 2 |
| $301-$400 | 5 |
| $401-$500 | 3 |
| $501+ | 7 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.56 | 54 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.25 | 55 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 8.00 | 54 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 9.24 | 38 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 9.21 | 38 |
| Response Avg | # Responders |
|---|---|
| 7.41 | 37 |
"Don’t change a thing! The admissions office, Eryn especially, is amazing and they should be proud of themselves."
"Nothing, they're doing great!"
"Feel free to actually look at a person aka interview them, vs basing everything on numbers."
"I felt that the interview day was a little disorganized and there was a big jumble of interviewees crammed into a small room. The seating was awkward in the room since the opto students to answer our questions were sitting in an area where some of the interviewees could not see them. I think if the optometry students sat in the front of the room under the TV would have been better so that everyone could see and hear them"
"Nothing. They are the sweetest people you will ever meet."
"Nothing- everyone was very friendly and made interview day a minimally stressful day"
"Keep doing what you're doing!"
"None! They were great. Very friendly and helpful both before, during, and after my interview. Always quick to respond and eager to help."
"None"
"Office was impersonal, which made things stressful. The financial aid person Barbara was nice."
"Snacks would be nice."
"Talking with a student is extremely helpful, but NOT a first year student."
We help students become doctors. TM
What is one of the specific questions they asked you (question 1)?