extra classes

[idoctor82]

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I'm curious to know what the admissions boards of any optometry school will think about this situation:

After this fall semester I will have completed all the prerequisites required to get into any optometry school. I'm filling out applications as we speak. I already have a non-science degree and think that extra classes in the spring semester are unnecessary since I will not be able to complete a second science degree in the two semesters before matriculation. I figured I would strengthen my application by continuing to shadow, do some projects, volunteer, and work to earn and save some money. But I don't want to convey a message that I'm not taking classes because I am lazy or that I cannot handle school, and in the end, ruining my chances of getting accepted.

Someone brought to my attention that I should stay in school because it will not hurt my chances. That, in fact, I should continue to take extra classes which might be useful like genetics, medical terminology, and pharmacology. Should I stay in school? What are your suggestions? If you do suggest staying in school, what extra classes do you suggest? What would they think if I didn't take a full course load, or should I just take a full course load?

 

[lemoncake]

I am in the exact same situation it seems, I have interviews set up, pre-reqs done, a BA degree, and absolutely no money. So for me, taking time off to work is my priority. I thought about taking extra biochem courses and physiology, but I figure I can skim some good textbooks out there these next 8 months to get a basic handle on what is coming next year. I actually plan to get textbooks from the school I choose to attend and give them a read or two, which would be good for me considering my first science class ever was just over one year ago. And besides, working in an optometrist's office, or anywhere in the industry, is probably better in the long run than learning more enzyme kinetics.

 

[Absolute Vision]

Since you've already completed all of your necessary pre-reqs for optometry school (undergrad degree, OATs, LOR, EC, etc), I don't think you need to continue taking additional science classes just to prove to them that you're academically ready for professional school (they can determine that by looking at your academic transcripts and OAT scores). I would continue to possibly shadow, work, or volunteer in the optometric field to convince the admissions committee your sincere desire to pursue optometry. You can always explain to them during the interview your reasons as to why you decided not to take additional classes if they ask, but I don't think it's really relevant in your case.