You’ve got the dorm decor, the course schedule, and the caffeine addiction ready—now let’s talk about your eyes.

College Is Coming—Are Your Eyes Ready?

Graduation season is an exciting time. If you’re heading to college this fall, you’re probably juggling dorm checklists, class schedules, and daydreams of late-night pizza runs. But in the rush to prepare for your next chapter, one important item often gets left off the list: an eye exam.

It may not seem like a big deal now, but your eyes are about to face a whole new level of demand. Think endless reading, streaming, studying, and scrolling. Your college experience will be powered by screens, and your vision needs to be ready for the challenge.

The Rise of Digital Eye Strain

Once classes start, your screen time will likely skyrocket—thanks to online textbooks, virtual lectures, group chats, and countless hours staring at your laptop or phone. With all that screen exposure comes a common but often ignored issue: digital eye strain.

It shows up as headaches, blurry vision, tired eyes, and difficulty focusing—none of which are helpful when you’re trying to absorb complex material or power through assignments. A simple eye exam can help prevent those problems before they interfere with your academic performance and overall comfort.

The good news? There are easy ways to reduce digital eye strain, including:

   •    The 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. It gives your eye muscles a much-needed break.

   •    Blue light filtering lenses: These specialty lenses can help reduce glare and eye fatigue during extended screen use.

   •    Proper screen setup: Keep your screen slightly below eye level, and avoid harsh overhead lighting or screen glare.

   •    Eye drops: Dry air and long screen sessions can reduce blinking—drops can help keep your eyes hydrated.
 

Your eyes do a lot of work—especially during the school year. Give them the care they deserve so you can stay focused, productive, and comfortable.

Your Vision Might Be Changing

Even if your eyesight has felt fine up to this point, changes often occur between your late teens and early twenties. You might not even notice your vision slipping until you’re straining to read slides from the back of the lecture hall.

Getting your eyes checked before the semester starts can help you stay ahead of those shifts. If you need a new prescription or your first pair of glasses, it’s far easier to handle it at home before classes begin than in the middle of midterms.

Don’t Miss the Insurance Window

Many students are still covered under a parent’s vision insurance plan—which often includes a free or low-cost annual eye exam, and sometimes even glasses or contact lenses. That coverage won’t last forever, and college is a busy time when healthcare often gets pushed to the back burner.

Take advantage of your benefits now while they’re simple to use and you’re not relying on student health services that may have long wait times or limited options.

It’s About More Than Just Vision

A comprehensive eye exam is also an important check-in for your overall health. Your eyes can reveal early signs of issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, or neurological concerns. Even if you feel healthy, this is a low-effort, high-reward way to make sure your body is functioning at its best—especially as you step into a more independent lifestyle.

With stress, irregular sleep, and variable nutrition on the horizon, it’s worth knowing your eyes (and your health) are in good shape from the start.

Start Strong—And Look Good Doing It

Let’s not forget one bonus: if you do end up needing glasses, they’re also a great way to update your look. Whether you want to lean into a classic, studious style or go bold with something fashion-forward, a new pair of frames is an easy confidence booster as you step into your college identity.

First impressions matter, and eyewear is a subtle but impactful part of how you present yourself.

Start College with Clear Vision—Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors of Optometry, Can Help

Getting ready for college is the perfect time to check in on your vision and eye health. Whether you need an updated prescription, relief from screen-related eye strain, or just want to make sure your eyes are in top shape for the semester ahead, our doctors are here to help.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with Kopolow & Girisgen, Doctors of Optometry, by texting GLASSES to 21000, calling us at (702) 452-2020, or booking an appointment online here.