Program Introduction Background

Transitioning from an undergraduate program to a graduate one can be intimidating, especially for students in bridge programs. Many students worry about what to expect, how to manage their time effectively, and how to structure their days and study habits to meet the demands of a rigorous academic program. The Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry Preparatory Optometry Program (POP) bridge program recently added a course to the curriculum designed to ease this transition. This one-credit pass/fail course entitled Student Success in Optometry teaches students effective learning strategies, time management techniques, and the tools needed to develop healthy and sustainable habits. 

Relevance to ASPBP

Making the transition from an undergraduate program to professional school is not unique to optometry students; the modules in this course can be applied to students in various bridge programs. This poster will present topics covered in the course and applicability to pre-professional students. 

Target Population

Curriculum directors in professional programs, pre-health students, pre-health science advisors. 

Lessons Learned, Challenges and Accomplishments, Best Practices, and/or Innovations, or General Program Framework Description, Transferability

Students learned effective and realistic study methods that promoted academic success without burnout. These techniques showed students how to become A+ students by studying smarter, not just harder. Achieving good grades through these methods boosted student confidence, a crucial factor for many students. In undergraduate studies, last-minute cramming may seem sufficient, but it is not adequate preparation for the demands of graduate school. Graduate-level education requires students to dedicate significant time and effort well in advance of exams. The goal is no longer simply to pass a course, but to prepare for licensing boards and ultimately to care for the health and well-being of others. As such, students must learn, retain, and apply a vast amount of information. This course provides the tools and strategies necessary to master that material effectively. Instructor Modifications to the course will also be addressed.