Student webinar FAQs

Answer by Byki: You can volunteer through established UK charities or global health organisations to help set up mobile clinics, conduct vision screenings, dispense spectacles, and manage clinic logistics in developing communities. Vision Action (formerly Vision Aid Overseas) is a great start.

However, I would recommend being slightly more specific in your question to find volunteering opportunities. Where do you want to go, what do you wish to do, and what is it you want to get out of it? Be clear about your time commitment/ availability, and your funding opportunities (usually you will need to cover your own flights, accommodation, and travel insurance, though some projects may cover on-the-ground expenses).

Top tip: Your application for overseas volunteering roles would be stronger if you obtain some initial experience. I would therefore like to highlight some great charities in the UK, like Moorfield Eye Hospital if you are London-based, Vision Care for Homeless People, Fight for Sight, or Be My Eyes (home-based)?

Answer by Carolina: For me, it's really about people. When I look back on my career, the things I'm most grateful for are the communities I've been part of, the opportunities I've been given, and the opportunities I've been able to create for others. I've always believed that when you bring good people together around a shared purpose, amazing things can happen. Whether that's helping develop future leaders, supporting eye care practitioners, or improving access to eye care, that's what gives me the most fulfilment. The work is important, but it's the people and the impact they go on to have that I find most rewarding.

Answer by Carolina: Great question! If you're considering working in the US or Canada after graduating from a UK MOptom program, the first step is to research the registration requirements for the country (and often the specific state or province) where you hope to practice. In general, the process involves having your qualifications assessed, completing any required examinations or additional training, and then applying for licensure and the appropriate work visa.

In Canada, UK-trained optometrists can pursue licensure, but the process typically involves credential assessment, examinations, and registration with the province where you intend to practice.

In the United States, the pathway is generally more complex. A UK optometry degree does not automatically qualify you for licensure, and additional education and examinations are often required. Requirements vary by state, so it's worth researching the specific location where you hope to work.

Australia and New Zealand are also popular destinations for UK-trained optometrists. Both countries have pathways for internationally qualified practitioners, although registration and assessment requirements still apply.

Beyond the licensing requirements, I'd encourage you to think about the type of career you want to build. While many optometrists pursue clinical practice, there are also opportunities in research, academia, industry, product development, and professional education that can provide international career opportunities. My own career took me from clinical practice in the Netherlands to a PhD in Australia, academia in the United States, and later into industry. Other than an internship in New Zealand, I didn't practice clinically in Australia or the US. I did see research patients, but that's quite different from clinical practice. My journey is a good example of how an optometry degree can open doors far beyond traditional clinical pathways.

One final thought: don't worry if you don't have it all figured out yet. When I was an optometry student, I certainly didn't envision a career that would include a PhD in Australia, academia in the United States, research, industry, and global professional education. Sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you never planned for. Focus on building a strong foundation, stay curious, and keep an open mind, you may be surprised where your optometry journey takes you.

Answer by Byki: Absolutely. LinkedIn is one of the best places to build your professional network while you're still a student. Many optometrists, educators, recruiters, and practice owners use it regularly, and these are often the very people who can offer placements, mentorship, and job opportunities.

The optical community on LinkedIn is very supportive and welcoming. Follow people whose careers inspire you, engage with their posts, and don't be afraid to introduce yourself. A polite message saying you're an optometry student and would love to learn more about their role can go a long way. Also, the people who may one day hire you are already on LinkedIn. So be brave and make yourself visible.

Answer by Byki: It depends on what you want to learn from the company, but a general rule would be to spend at least a few days with a company, and ideally a week if possible. A single day gives you a snapshot, but a week gives you a much better feel for the culture, team dynamics, and pace of work.

How you spend your time matters just as much as how long you're there. Try to experience as many aspects of the business as possible, from the testing room and dispensing area to reception and back-office functions. Understanding how the whole practice works will give you a much clearer picture of whether it's an environment where you can see yourself thriving. And don’t forget to have a 1-2-1conversation with other students/ optical assistants, as well as the supervisor. Prepare some questions, also based on what you have experienced so far in the practice, and what you are looking for.

Answer by Byki: Some tips and tricks that may be useful:

• Create a concise, one-page CV that highlights your clinical experience, placements, volunteering, and transferable skills. Identify practices you would like to work for. Use the GOC register (you can search on location and expertise), practice websites, and LinkedIn to learn more about their areas of interest, services, and team members
• Connect with practitioners and employers on LinkedIn. While emailing practices can be effective, this platform can be a great way to make personal connections and start conversations
• Visit practices in the area where you would like to work. Introduce yourself and ask whether you could speak to the manager or supervisor about work experience, placement, shadowing, or volunteering opportunities
• If the manager is unavailable, leave a copy of your CV and ask for it to be passed on. If you haven't heard back within two weeks, follow up with a polite phone call or email
• When speaking to potential employers, show genuine interest in their practice. Mention something specific you admire, such as their clinical services, website, community involvement, or practice environment
• Make yourself memorable. Professionalism comes first, but showing a little personality and confidence can help people remember you. Dare to wear a colourful shirt for example?
• Use your network. Let friends, lecturers, supervisors, and professional contacts know you are looking for opportunities. Make it easy for them to help by providing a short message they can share on email or social media.

You won’t win them all, so don’t feel sad if there is little traction at first. You’ll make a dent in the difficult path we all endured finding a placement, particularly coming from abroad.