My Choice To Study Optometry

The following sample essay on my choice to study optometry has stemmed from my volunteer visit to the Sahajanand orphanage in Kenya. I learnt valuable lessons in empathy and patience, and truly understood the definition of privilege. The experience was not only rewarding but an eye opener to the struggles that children encounter in less developed countries. I was astounded by the number of children who were visually impaired as well as those who were developing or had already developed eye diseases like trachoma.

Optometry is a profession that would allow me to combine my passion for science and caring for people. The A-level subjects I am studying have enhanced my ability to analyse and adapt to various different concepts. Maths and Chemistry have improved my problem solving skills immensely and through studying Biology I have learnt a great deal of technical skills. Furthermore Biology ambassadorship which entails tutoring year 7 and 8 students and has enabled me to adapt my teaching style to be effective for different students.

To further my understanding of optometry, both as a field of study and a profession, I carried out work experience for a week at a high street opticians, Specsavers. During my work experience I shadowed different opticians as they performed a variety of activities, such as eye tests, machine scanning and contact lens fittings. In addition to this, I assisted people to choose glasses and stacked shelves which have aided my organisation skills. Throughout this time I learnt the how much I enjoy working in a field where I can offer advice and support people.

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Having also had work experience in three independent opticians, I had the opportunity to spend time in the dispensing laboratory where I observed the range of processes required for the preparation of lenses and frames. This experience reinforced my understanding of the technical skills encompassed in making glasses and the purpose of different types of lenses used.

I also undertook work experience at a specialist contacts lens fitting clinic in which I witnessed the treatment of myopia control called atropine which is an overnight wear of hard contacts that corrects vision during the day. This then led me to read an article from ‘Optometry Today’ which deliberated how the daily wear of customised spectacle lenses slowed myopic progression.

I have gained good customer service and communication in the retail sector from working on shop floor in my family run business of Indian sweets, as well as being a member of the marketing team and being in control of the finishing touches and final products. This requires a great deal of intricacy and accuracy which is a principal skill of an optometrist. Furthermore to support this, volunteering at St. Lukes charity shop has boosted my confidence and my interpersonal skills have strengthened. Being on the till has not only taught me simple skills such as cash handling but complex skills such as data entry and dealing with customer queries. One of my duties also includes spending a lot of time ensuring shop displays are eye-catching. From both helping run the family business and volunteering at a charity shop, I have learnt a myriad of skills which are vital to pursue a career in optometry.

As head of charity society at my school we raised ?450 for ‘Macmillan Cancer’ and supported ‘Action Against Hunger’. This position gave me the opportunity to put my leadership skills into practice. I have been a member of a Bollywood dance academy for the past ten years and am currently working towards grade 7 piano exam which requires a lot of dedication and perseverance. I believe that these two skills are crucial to becoming an accomplished optometrist.

I believe that optometry is an ever expanding sector which provides interminable opportunities for further study and specialisation, whilst providing a secure, fulfilling and gratifying career. Both clinical and anatomical aspects of optometry fascinate me thus confirm this is the ideal course for me.