Welcome Week: Eye Exam Checklist for New UCI Students

Welcome Week: Eye Exam Checklist for New UCI Students

Starting college at the University of California, Irvine is an exciting transition filled with new experiences, academic challenges, and personal growth. Amid the busy schedule of Welcome Week, students often focus on orientation activities, moving into dorms, and meeting new classmates. However, one essential health task is frequently overlooked: scheduling an eye exam.
 

Routine vision care plays a vital role in a student’s academic success and overall well-being. Whether you're spending long hours reading digital screens or navigating a new environment, a comprehensive eye exam can help prevent eye strain, detect underlying issues early, and ensure your vision is ready for the school year ahead.
 

Why an Eye Exam Matters for College Students

Vision is a key part of learning—approximately 80% of classroom learning is visual. An undiagnosed vision issue can lead to headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and reduced academic performance. Many students are unaware they even have a vision problem until it starts affecting their studies.
 

An eye exam not only evaluates how well you see but also checks for signs of eye disease, binocular vision issues, and digital eye strain—all common concerns among students.
 

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your comprehensive eye exam will typically include:
 

• Visual acuity testing to assess sharpness of vision.

• Refraction testing to determine if you need glasses or contacts.

• Eye health evaluation using dilation or retinal imaging.

• Discussion of screen habits and advice on reducing digital eye strain.

If you already wear corrective lenses, bring them with you to your appointment. This helps your optometrist evaluate whether your current prescription is still effective.
 

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Vision on Campus

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Stay hydrated and get proper sleep, both of which support eye health.

• Use blue light filters or lenses if you spend long hours on devices.

• Take breaks from screens and spend time outdoors—natural light is beneficial for your eyes.
   

Start the Quarter with a Clear Vision

Your college years are a time of growth, discovery, and learning—and healthy vision supports all of it. By taking the time to schedule an eye exam during Welcome Week, you’re investing in your academic performance and personal well-being.
 

Ready to get started? Schedule an eye exam with University Optometric Center. Please call (949)-854-7122 or (949) 476-2870 to book an appointment today.