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To the pediatric optometrists, do you encounter any sort of harassments, and could you share your story - if you feel comfortable? Also, would you recommend the field of pediatric optometrist for females, considering women are typically objectified in various forms (even though women aren't as overly objectified as they used to be in the past)?
I'm a rising senior in high school. And I've become very interested in pediatric optometry because I adore children and am interested about optometry. I believe it would be challenging to work with kids but I am willing to face it. I have researched this field for hours and have read that it has a great work-life balance - which is an enormous factor that has intrigued my interest! It includes four years of rigorous graduate school, which I feel nervous yet determined to grind through. Plus, it is said to have a safe environment - in terms of equipments and chemical toxicities. I also like that optometrists can work part-time, and independently (even though I would have preferred that they could work alongside others to learn from their experience). What are your thoughts?
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Kristin’s Answer
Hello Sadi,
I have been a family practice optometrist for 31 years. While discrimination and harassment can happen in any workplace setting I believe the incidence in optometry is low. My optometry class was 70% female and the field in general is trending in that direction in large part die to the excellent work/ life balance it affords. The work is rewarding. My most serious injury had been occasionally cracks iny thumb from spinning the wheels. 😎 Pay, in optometry had not kept pace with other health positions and you should seriously look at the numbers and see if it merits the long course of study and costs of professional school. If you go forward on this path definitely do whatever you can go keep your student debts low. Your future self will thank you!
I have been a family practice optometrist for 31 years. While discrimination and harassment can happen in any workplace setting I believe the incidence in optometry is low. My optometry class was 70% female and the field in general is trending in that direction in large part die to the excellent work/ life balance it affords. The work is rewarding. My most serious injury had been occasionally cracks iny thumb from spinning the wheels. 😎 Pay, in optometry had not kept pace with other health positions and you should seriously look at the numbers and see if it merits the long course of study and costs of professional school. If you go forward on this path definitely do whatever you can go keep your student debts low. Your future self will thank you!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Sadi !
Congratulations on discovering your wonderful career calling and thank you for reaching out about what is on your mind. I would like to touch upon the things you've expressed concern about so that you can alleviate any worry you may have. You may just be worrying about things because you haven't started yet, but once your college path becomes real, you will approach it ready and with gusto ! You will do it !
I'm a bit concerned about, in the 21st Century, that young people have been made to feel like they have been victimized when historically thousands of people have actually lost their lives fighting for civil rights and maintain rights in our country. As a young woman in 2024, you are not victimized or objectified. Women have always achieved many things over100 years that people do not talk about. It was their choice to do so. It is an individual thing and if people put themselves in a position to be objectified by what they believe and who they associate with, that's their choice, too. Sometimes being a victim is the only identity they feel comfortable with, but in this day and age, you don't have to. Live your life, not words that generate anger, cause division and hold you back. Not only for women but for all of the people who feel they are part of a group. Be free of it and proceed with your dream as an individual. There are good and bad people in every generation but over decades, women have always had careers, perhaps a small number of them, and many have been very successful and did not feel incompetent because of past social events or who they are. There are a lot of messages out there to hold people back and my advice is to be yourself and make beneficial choices for what you want.
You have chosen a rather pleasant career that will put you in a quiet, focused and satisfying type of environment. The ideal long term goal would be to open your own office, however, you may work in an optical store, hospitals or doctor's offices. You can't foretell exactly how it will be until you actually start. If you carry around a worry that you will be harassed, bothered, objectified or how people will treat you, you may end up not wanting to work anywhere. In the field of work you will go into, the people are generally intelligent, educated and socially savvy. You cannot predict anything in life so it's not worth worrying about. What you can do is be discerning in both your personal and professional life. You know how to choose things that are beneficial to you. Don't underestimate yourself in any way.
You will work along others as an Optometrist but it's not going to be to learn from THEIR experience - you will have already become an expert in your field. You will be around co-workers who are not optometrists, patients and the adult(s) who accompanies the child. I just wanted to make sure that you know that you will be around people as a professional in this field. You will get your experience when you attend the Optometrist Program.
So for right now, focus on your high school classes and activities and make the most of your high school years. You will be fine. Life does have it's ups and downs and the important thing is to understand that you can make choices for your life that will greatly support your future short term and long term goals. Try not to worry about the things you've mentioned because they haven't happened. Live in the here and now and have a good time and know that you are not alone in your concerns - we all want the best for our lives.
Never let negative messages affect your mindset - you are much stronger than that !
Congratulations on discovering your wonderful career calling and thank you for reaching out about what is on your mind. I would like to touch upon the things you've expressed concern about so that you can alleviate any worry you may have. You may just be worrying about things because you haven't started yet, but once your college path becomes real, you will approach it ready and with gusto ! You will do it !
I'm a bit concerned about, in the 21st Century, that young people have been made to feel like they have been victimized when historically thousands of people have actually lost their lives fighting for civil rights and maintain rights in our country. As a young woman in 2024, you are not victimized or objectified. Women have always achieved many things over100 years that people do not talk about. It was their choice to do so. It is an individual thing and if people put themselves in a position to be objectified by what they believe and who they associate with, that's their choice, too. Sometimes being a victim is the only identity they feel comfortable with, but in this day and age, you don't have to. Live your life, not words that generate anger, cause division and hold you back. Not only for women but for all of the people who feel they are part of a group. Be free of it and proceed with your dream as an individual. There are good and bad people in every generation but over decades, women have always had careers, perhaps a small number of them, and many have been very successful and did not feel incompetent because of past social events or who they are. There are a lot of messages out there to hold people back and my advice is to be yourself and make beneficial choices for what you want.
You have chosen a rather pleasant career that will put you in a quiet, focused and satisfying type of environment. The ideal long term goal would be to open your own office, however, you may work in an optical store, hospitals or doctor's offices. You can't foretell exactly how it will be until you actually start. If you carry around a worry that you will be harassed, bothered, objectified or how people will treat you, you may end up not wanting to work anywhere. In the field of work you will go into, the people are generally intelligent, educated and socially savvy. You cannot predict anything in life so it's not worth worrying about. What you can do is be discerning in both your personal and professional life. You know how to choose things that are beneficial to you. Don't underestimate yourself in any way.
You will work along others as an Optometrist but it's not going to be to learn from THEIR experience - you will have already become an expert in your field. You will be around co-workers who are not optometrists, patients and the adult(s) who accompanies the child. I just wanted to make sure that you know that you will be around people as a professional in this field. You will get your experience when you attend the Optometrist Program.
So for right now, focus on your high school classes and activities and make the most of your high school years. You will be fine. Life does have it's ups and downs and the important thing is to understand that you can make choices for your life that will greatly support your future short term and long term goals. Try not to worry about the things you've mentioned because they haven't happened. Live in the here and now and have a good time and know that you are not alone in your concerns - we all want the best for our lives.
Never let negative messages affect your mindset - you are much stronger than that !
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Sadi!
The prompt you provided is a long question from a high school student who is interested in pediatric optometry. Here is a comprehensive response that addresses the student's concerns and provides valuable insights:
**Addressing Harassment in Pediatric Optometry**
It's important to acknowledge that harassment can occur in any profession, including healthcare. While it's difficult to provide specific statistics for pediatric optometry, it's likely that cases do exist. However, it's also important to note that many individuals have positive experiences in the field.
If you feel comfortable sharing your experiences, you could reach out to professional organizations or online communities for pediatric optometrists. These platforms can provide a safe space to discuss challenges and seek support.
**Pediatric Optometry and Women**
While it's true that women have historically faced objectification in various fields, including healthcare, the situation has improved significantly in recent decades. In today's society, there are more opportunities for women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated professions.
Pediatric optometry is a field that values empathy, communication, and patience, qualities that are often associated with women. Many female optometrists have found fulfilling careers in this specialty.
**Challenges and Rewards of Pediatric Optometry**
Working with children can be both rewarding and challenging. Children may have different communication styles or behavioral issues, which can require patience and adaptability. However, the joy of helping young patients develop healthy vision and improve their quality of life can be incredibly fulfilling.
**Work-Life Balance and Career Path**
Pediatric optometry can offer a good work-life balance, especially compared to some other medical professions. Many optometrists have the flexibility to work part-time or independently.
The path to becoming a pediatric optometrist typically involves a rigorous undergraduate degree followed by four years of optometry school. While this may seem daunting, it's important to remember that many students successfully complete the program.
**Safety and Equipment**
Pediatric optometry offices are generally safe environments with modern equipment and protocols to protect both patients and practitioners. Chemical exposure is typically minimal.
**Collaboration and Learning**
While pediatric optometrists may work independently, they also have opportunities to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians and ophthalmologists. This can provide valuable learning experiences and support.
**Final Thoughts**
If you're passionate about helping children and have an interest in optometry, pediatric optometry may be a rewarding career choice. While there may be challenges to overcome, the potential benefits and opportunities for growth make it a worthwhile field to consider.
**Additional Resources**
* American Academy of Optometry: [https://aaopt.org/](https://aaopt.org/)
* College of Optometrists: [https://www.college-optometrists.org/](https://www.college-optometrists.org/)
* American Optometric Association: [https://www.aoa.org/](https://www.aoa.org/)
I hope this information is helpful. Feel free to ask if you have any further questions.
God Bless You!
JC.
The prompt you provided is a long question from a high school student who is interested in pediatric optometry. Here is a comprehensive response that addresses the student's concerns and provides valuable insights:
**Addressing Harassment in Pediatric Optometry**
It's important to acknowledge that harassment can occur in any profession, including healthcare. While it's difficult to provide specific statistics for pediatric optometry, it's likely that cases do exist. However, it's also important to note that many individuals have positive experiences in the field.
If you feel comfortable sharing your experiences, you could reach out to professional organizations or online communities for pediatric optometrists. These platforms can provide a safe space to discuss challenges and seek support.
**Pediatric Optometry and Women**
While it's true that women have historically faced objectification in various fields, including healthcare, the situation has improved significantly in recent decades. In today's society, there are more opportunities for women to succeed in traditionally male-dominated professions.
Pediatric optometry is a field that values empathy, communication, and patience, qualities that are often associated with women. Many female optometrists have found fulfilling careers in this specialty.
**Challenges and Rewards of Pediatric Optometry**
Working with children can be both rewarding and challenging. Children may have different communication styles or behavioral issues, which can require patience and adaptability. However, the joy of helping young patients develop healthy vision and improve their quality of life can be incredibly fulfilling.
**Work-Life Balance and Career Path**
Pediatric optometry can offer a good work-life balance, especially compared to some other medical professions. Many optometrists have the flexibility to work part-time or independently.
The path to becoming a pediatric optometrist typically involves a rigorous undergraduate degree followed by four years of optometry school. While this may seem daunting, it's important to remember that many students successfully complete the program.
**Safety and Equipment**
Pediatric optometry offices are generally safe environments with modern equipment and protocols to protect both patients and practitioners. Chemical exposure is typically minimal.
**Collaboration and Learning**
While pediatric optometrists may work independently, they also have opportunities to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians and ophthalmologists. This can provide valuable learning experiences and support.
**Final Thoughts**
If you're passionate about helping children and have an interest in optometry, pediatric optometry may be a rewarding career choice. While there may be challenges to overcome, the potential benefits and opportunities for growth make it a worthwhile field to consider.
**Additional Resources**
* American Academy of Optometry: [https://aaopt.org/](https://aaopt.org/)
* College of Optometrists: [https://www.college-optometrists.org/](https://www.college-optometrists.org/)
* American Optometric Association: [https://www.aoa.org/](https://www.aoa.org/)
I hope this information is helpful. Feel free to ask if you have any further questions.
God Bless You!
JC.
Updated
怡人’s Answer
Pediatric optometry is a unique and rewarding specialty within the healthcare field, particularly suited for those who have a passion for working with children and an interest in eye care. The career offers a combination of challenges and rewards that can be deeply fulfilling, especially for individuals who value a good work-life balance and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young patients.
Work-Life Balance and Career Flexibility
One of the most attractive aspects of pediatric optometry is the work-life balance it provides. Unlike some medical specialties that demand long hours and unpredictable schedules, optometry generally allows for a more predictable and manageable work schedule. Many optometrists work part-time or have the flexibility to set their hours, which can be particularly appealing to those who prioritize time with family or other personal pursuits. This flexibility also extends to the ability to work independently, open your own practice, or join a group practice where you can collaborate with others and continue learning from your peers.
Safety and Work Environment
In terms of physical safety, pediatric optometry is a relatively low-risk field. The work environment is typically clean, well-maintained, and free from many of the hazards found in other medical professions. The use of advanced, non-invasive diagnostic equipment and the minimal exposure to harmful chemicals make it a safe choice, particularly for those concerned about long-term health impacts.
Gender and Professionalism
While objectification and harassment can be concerns in many professions, the healthcare field, especially pediatric care, generally upholds a high standard of professionalism. Female optometrists, including those specializing in pediatrics, often find the work environment respectful and supportive. The nature of the work, focused on the well-being of children, tends to foster a collaborative and caring atmosphere. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of the resources available to address any issues of misconduct.
Challenges and Rewards
Working with children presents its own set of challenges. Pediatric patients can be more difficult to diagnose and treat due to their age and ability to communicate their symptoms. However, for those who enjoy working with kids, these challenges can also be the most rewarding aspect of the job. Helping a child see clearly for the first time, diagnosing a vision problem that could impact their development, or simply making a visit to the optometrist a positive experience are all aspects that make pediatric optometry fulfilling.
Educational Path and Commitment
The path to becoming a pediatric optometrist involves completing a rigorous four-year optometry program after earning an undergraduate degree. This requires a strong commitment to your studies and a passion for the field. The academic and clinical training can be intense, but for those who are determined, it is an achievable and worthwhile endeavor. Graduates often find that the rewards of the profession far outweigh the challenges faced during their education.
Conclusion
Pediatric optometry is an excellent career choice for those who love working with children and are interested in the science of vision care. It offers a balance of professional fulfillment and personal satisfaction, with the added benefits of flexibility and a supportive work environment. For women considering this field, it is generally a safe and respectful profession where you can thrive and make a significant impact. With the right dedication and passion, pediatric optometry can be a deeply rewarding career that offers both personal and professional growth.
Work-Life Balance and Career Flexibility
One of the most attractive aspects of pediatric optometry is the work-life balance it provides. Unlike some medical specialties that demand long hours and unpredictable schedules, optometry generally allows for a more predictable and manageable work schedule. Many optometrists work part-time or have the flexibility to set their hours, which can be particularly appealing to those who prioritize time with family or other personal pursuits. This flexibility also extends to the ability to work independently, open your own practice, or join a group practice where you can collaborate with others and continue learning from your peers.
Safety and Work Environment
In terms of physical safety, pediatric optometry is a relatively low-risk field. The work environment is typically clean, well-maintained, and free from many of the hazards found in other medical professions. The use of advanced, non-invasive diagnostic equipment and the minimal exposure to harmful chemicals make it a safe choice, particularly for those concerned about long-term health impacts.
Gender and Professionalism
While objectification and harassment can be concerns in many professions, the healthcare field, especially pediatric care, generally upholds a high standard of professionalism. Female optometrists, including those specializing in pediatrics, often find the work environment respectful and supportive. The nature of the work, focused on the well-being of children, tends to foster a collaborative and caring atmosphere. However, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of the resources available to address any issues of misconduct.
Challenges and Rewards
Working with children presents its own set of challenges. Pediatric patients can be more difficult to diagnose and treat due to their age and ability to communicate their symptoms. However, for those who enjoy working with kids, these challenges can also be the most rewarding aspect of the job. Helping a child see clearly for the first time, diagnosing a vision problem that could impact their development, or simply making a visit to the optometrist a positive experience are all aspects that make pediatric optometry fulfilling.
Educational Path and Commitment
The path to becoming a pediatric optometrist involves completing a rigorous four-year optometry program after earning an undergraduate degree. This requires a strong commitment to your studies and a passion for the field. The academic and clinical training can be intense, but for those who are determined, it is an achievable and worthwhile endeavor. Graduates often find that the rewards of the profession far outweigh the challenges faced during their education.
Conclusion
Pediatric optometry is an excellent career choice for those who love working with children and are interested in the science of vision care. It offers a balance of professional fulfillment and personal satisfaction, with the added benefits of flexibility and a supportive work environment. For women considering this field, it is generally a safe and respectful profession where you can thrive and make a significant impact. With the right dedication and passion, pediatric optometry can be a deeply rewarding career that offers both personal and professional growth.