2 answers
Cole
Student
Boynton Beach, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What would be the optimal path to become an Optometrist?
I am thinking about becoming an Optometrist, or O.D., and while I have researched it a fair bunch, I do not know all the skills I would need, where to go, and how to do it overall
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2 answers
Rita Bhakta
Optometrist
16
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
Rita’s Answer
Optometry school (where you will earn the Doctor of Optometry or O.D. degree in four years) has admission requirements that include a bachelor's degree and completion of prerequisite classes (you can find these on the websites of optometry schools, but generally they include biology, chemistry, physics, and math). You will also have to take the OAT (Optometry Admissions Test) and get letters of recommendations from your college professors, an optometrist you have volunteered with, and others who know you well, like employers.
Good grades and test scores are of course important. But so is demonstrating your understanding of what an optometrist does and your genuine interest in the profession. You can do this by shadowing an optometrist at their office and joining your college's pre-optometry or pre-health professions organization.
The skills you need to become an optometrist are a strong background in science, excellent communication skills, and a good work ethic. It's a long road, but well worth it. Take it step by step and don't let the whole process be overwhelming. It can be done.
Good grades and test scores are of course important. But so is demonstrating your understanding of what an optometrist does and your genuine interest in the profession. You can do this by shadowing an optometrist at their office and joining your college's pre-optometry or pre-health professions organization.
The skills you need to become an optometrist are a strong background in science, excellent communication skills, and a good work ethic. It's a long road, but well worth it. Take it step by step and don't let the whole process be overwhelming. It can be done.
Thank you so much for the advice! Have a great day!
Cole
Kristin Burns
Optometrist
15
Answers
Leander, Texas
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
The more you know about the process, the smoother it will be. When you attend college you will need good grades, especially in the sciences. Make sure to educate yourself about what prerequisites are needed for the optometry school of your choice. The path is long and expensive so the more preparation, the better. In college you will take the OAT and that score will be weighed with your grades. Take the process ine stel at a time.