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The Classroom Experience - Optometry (pre) You can prepare for a career in optometry by completing a two-year Pre-Optometry program at Lake Michigan College and transferring credits to a four-year accredited university. The Pre-optometry program incorporates lecture and lab time in science-based courses. Lecture time will prepare you for exams, papers and lab time. Labs are hands-on, collaborative experiences that require problem solving skills and teamwork.

"Class time is just a hint as to where the class is going," says LMC instructor Wilma Kime. "You must apply yourself inside, as well as outside the classroom. You can't just sit in class and expect to understand the presented material." Consistent class and lab attendance is necessary. A dedicated attitude is a must for success.

The Pre-Optometry program has a rigorous schedule and carries a heavy academic load. LMC instructors will expect you to be committed to your class work. Since many of these classes are introductory or general overviews, it is vital to your academic success to attend and actively participate in every class.

"Science has it's own language," says Kime. "In these courses you will develop a precise sense of terminology. I expect students to apply their scientific knowledge, not just memorize the terms in the glossary."

Overall, the Pre-optometry courses offered at LMC are aimed at preparing you to be successful at a four-year university. LMC will provide you with the broad science knowledge you will need to succeed in higher-level courses.

Getting the Most from the Program
"I encourage students to enroll in CLS 100, Freshman Seminar. This course will teach you study skills, how to find resources and how to meet your education expectations. Once you are equipped with these tools you can apply them to the Pre-professional programs," states Kime.

Lake Michigan College has developed a program guide with Ferris State University. This ensures you of an efficient transfer to this university. If you are interested in attending a different university, please work with a counselor or academic advisor to build a program that will meet the requirements of your chosen school.

You should also keep in touch with your advisor to make sure you are on track. If necessary, your plan can be revised to adjust for any circumstances that may change your available time to complete the program.

Technology in the Classroom
A variety of technologies are used in conjunction with traditional lecture and hands-on activities. PowerPoint presentations, videos, DVDs, the Internet and materials available on Blackboard - the College's instructional Intranet - play an important role in class.

In every Pre-professional science lab, you will use an individual, wireless laptop, where simulated experiments are presented and tested. According to Kime, LMC is one of the top community colleges in offering advanced computer equipment on a per student basis.

Math/Science Computer Help Lab
If you need additional assistance with an idea or concept presented during class, go to the math/science computer help lab. "Instructors have made PowerPoint presentations available to students along with videos and Internet links," says Kime. "Science courses are structured to provide continuity, so no matter who is presenting the material, the course work is similar."

The Help Lab is located at the Napier Avenue Campus in room B303.

Study Sessions
"Many instructors are available to provide extra help for students. I am always willing to meet with students," states Kime. "I would much rather be in the lab on an individual or group basis helping students, than sitting in my office."