Its diversity makes the faculty difficult to characterize as a whole, but I think it is fair to say that the faculty are very supportive of the students. We understand that our role is to train the best optometrists possible, and we take the success of each student very seriously. That support may take many forms, but at the heart is a desire to help each student reach his or her full potential.

How available are the faculty to Berkeley Optometry students?

On the whole, the faculty are very accessible. There are scheduled office hours, but most faculty are also open to drop-in visits anytime they're in the office. Many of my conversations with students take place during chance encounters around the School. We have a good number of part-time clinical faculty who teach one day per week, so their availability is more limited. Still, if a student wishes, arrangements can be made to meet with any faculty member.

What does your typical day look like teaching a Berkeley Optometry student in the clinic?

I can only speak for contact lens clinic, where I teach, but our first patients are usually at 8:30 AM. Throughout the morning, students consult with me regarding their patients, and I'm in and out of the exam rooms, talking with patients, confirming the students' findings, and reviewing the diagnoses and treatment plans. After lunch, we have a seminar that covers a particular topic or interesting cases of the day. The afternoon, like the morning, is dedicated to patient care.

Do Berkeley Optometry students have the opportunity to do research while also working in the clinic?

Yes, there are several research opportunities for students. Many students work in the labs of our research faculty who explore a variety of eye and vision-related topics. Additionally, a few students work in our Clinical Research Center. Research conducted under the supervision of a faculty member may qualify a student for Graduation with Honors in Research.

What is your favorite part about teaching Berkeley Optometry students?

I am fortunate to teach during all four years of the program, so my favorite aspect of teaching here is witnessing the transformation of naive first years into proficient clinicians. I'm always proud of our graduates.

Is there anything else you would like to add about Berkeley Optometry?

I believe that the program is exceptionally strong, but we are constantly improving it to raise the quality of the educational experience and stay abreast of changes in the profession. Also, the sense of community among the students has always impressed me.

If you have additional questions after reading all the material under the Admissions Topics, please contact optometry-admissions@berkeley.edu.

Admissions and Student Affairs Office (ASAO)
397 Minor Hall
School of Optometry
Berkeley, CA 94720-2020
Tel: 510-642-9537
Fax: 510-643-7111