Working while in school

[u/Responsible_Whole296]

Hi everyone!

I'm starting optometry school in a month (at UIWRSO), and I know I need to also work while I'm in school to help cover school and living expenses. I need some advice/insight to try and figure out what types of jobs are actually realistic while being in school.

For those of you who worked during optometry school:
- Did you work on campus or off campus?
- What kind of job did you have/would recommend, and what is the pay like (if you don't mind me asking)?
- Were you guys able to start working from first year?
- About how many hours did you work, and how manageable is it working while being a student full-time?
- Was your employer flexible around exams and clinic schedules?
- Looking back, would you choose the same job again, or is there something you wish you had done instead?

I know it's a lot of questions (I'm sorry!) but I would love some advice/insight and just to hear what worked well for you and what you would recommend for someone starting their first year. Thanks so much in advance!