Varilux® Optometry Student Bowl™

 

by Kelly Summers, IU Trustee-Elect

 

The Varilux^® Optometry Student Bowl^TM, sponsored by Essilor of America, is one

of the most highly anticipated events at Optometry's Meeting, and this year's fiercecompetition proved to be no exception. The event revolves around twenty-two student contestants, who were thoughtfully nominated by their respective school. The bowl is designed with two preliminary rounds comprised of twenty questions, and the top four contestants from each preliminary round proceed to the finals. Following the final round, the eight remaining contestants wager their points prior to the last question.

 

Karen Lee, an upcoming fourth-year student from Indiana University School of Optometry (IUSO), was declared the 2012 Varilux^® Optometry Student Bowl^TM winner. To prepare for the bowl, Ms. Lee studied photographs of retinal disease and mastered her clicker skills- knowing that timing would be absolutely critical to her success. With the constant eruptions from the crowd, it was difficult to focus, but Karen calmed her nerves and came out with IUSO's first victory. Ms. Lee's peers wildly stormed the stage to congratulate their champion! Travis Tucker of the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry must also be recognized for his second place finish and Robert Soo Hoo of the Illinois College of Optometry for third place.

Although the spotlight was on the courageous contestants, the spectators could certainly not be ignored. The onlooking students were dressed in colorful spirit wear and carried posters, pom poms, megaphones, and flags to denote their school pride. The students continued to enthusiastically cheer and chant throughout the event- all hopeful to earn the coveted Spirit Award. While every school gave a valiant effort, it was The Ohio State University College of Optometry (OSU) with their flash mob dance routine to "Seven Nation Army" that secured the Spirit Award.

All attendees were in awe as OSU's students boldly took to the floor performing intricate choreography in perfect unison. Who knew aspiring optometrists could command the dance floor? As the Spirit Award winners, OSU students are responsible for preparing the Rules Video for the 2013 Varilux^® Optometry Student Bowl^TM.

This unique Optometry's Meeting^® tradition unites the schools through a friendly competitive spirit, and it truly captures the rich pride that the students boast for their respective school. With each passing year, the Varilux^® Optometry Student Bowl^TM becomes even more sensational as the students discover innovative ways to impress the judges. Who will steal the show in California at the 2013 Optometry's Meeting^®? Best of luck to all!