“As an AOP student rep, you represent your peers and gain insight into the profession beyond the classroom”

How did you first become aware of the profession?

My parents took me to the optometrist to have my eyes checked when I was younger as they noticed I had a squint. After a thorough check by the optometrist, I was found to have phoria, which became more noticeable when I was tired.

Who influenced or inspired the decision to go into optometry?

My passion for optometry was inspired by my experience of working closely with optometrists, ophthalmologists, and other eye care professionals during my time at Johnson & Johnson.

I was a senior sales representative at Johnson & Johnson, where I worked for more than five years. I worked with ophthalmologists and optometrists to discuss different types of intraocular lenses for patients and the settings of phacoemulsification machines for cataract surgery.

I was amazed at how cataract surgery can change a person’s life, not only by avoiding losing their vision, but also by bringing massive improvements to their quality of life. I learned how important vision is, and how important an optometrist is as the first-line health care provider.

What placements have you carried out, and what have you learned from your experience of optometry so far?

I am now working at Optegra Manchester as a trainee optometrist, where I mainly focus on cataract surgery (initial assessment and post-operation follow-up). I recognise the importance of tailoring communication to each patient, ranging from how to carry out the assessment to explaining the surgery and follow-up management. My supervisor checks each patient I see and is involved in assessing my core competencies and identifying areas of improvement.

What is your favourite aspect of optometry so far?

I can help the patient decide whether to proceed with cataract surgery. Surgery on the eye can bring a lot of anxiety, but professional assessment and thorough discussion of the pros and cons of the surgery allow the patient to make informed decisions, regain their vision, and improve their lives.

Do you have a career path in mind? What are your professional goals?

My short-term goal is to complete my optometry degree and become a registered optometrist. I aim to contribute to the field by representing and advocating for optometry students and professionals. My long-term goal is to gain as much experience as possible so that I can train future optometrists and advance the profession.

Finding community and connections

What helped you settle into university?

I participated in different opportunities, such as becoming a student representative with the AOP and British Contact Lens Association, as well as a Peer-Assisted Study Session coordinator at the university. These roles provided me with a sense of community and allowed me to connect with people in the industry from whom I could seek advice.

Working part-time as an optical assistant also helped me to understand the community practice setting and helped my academic performance.

Is there one thing that you wish someone had told you about optometry before you started?

The one thing I wish someone had told me before starting optometry is the importance of learning from academic failures. Many of us excelled academically to reach this point. It is crucial to understand that our lack of experience might sometimes lead to setbacks. While it’s okay to feel disappointed, what is more important is reflecting on what went wrong, learning from the experience, and using that knowledge to improve. Adopting this mindset is key to growth and long-term success.

How do you approach balancing studying and work, with socialising and making time for yourself?

I approach balancing these aspects of life by being organised and setting clear priorities. I schedule my time carefully, ensuring that I dedicate specific hours to studying and working, while reserving time for social activities and self-care. Maintaining a structured routine allows me to stay on top of my responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed, and I regularly reflect and adjust my schedule as needed.

As an AOP student representative, what did you enjoy most?

I thoroughly enjoyed connecting with fellow students and professionals within the optometry community. One standout experience was attending 100% Optical where I engaged with industry leaders and gained insight into the latest advancements in the field. We also participated in different talks and seminars as helpers. It was really an eye-opening experience.

How did the experience compare to any expectations you had when applying?

The experience exceeded my expectations. While I anticipated opportunities to network and represent students, I didn’t fully grasp the extent of responsibility and influence I would have. The role allowed me to develop leadership skills and provided a platform to voice student concerns meaningfully. I was pleasantly surprised by the strong sense of community and support within the AOP, which made the experience even more fulfilling.

I was pleasantly surprised by the strong sense of community and support within the AOP, which made the experience even more fulfilling

What would you say to any students considering applying to become an AOP student representative in the future?

I highly encourage students to apply. It’s a unique opportunity to make a real impact on the optometry community while developing invaluable leadership, communication, and advocacy skills. As an AOP student rep, you represent your peers and gain insight into the profession beyond the classroom. It’s a chance to grow personally and professionally, and you’ll have the support of a passionate and committed organisation behind you.

What are your ambitions for the next year as an AOP Councillor for undergraduate optometrists?

My ambitions for the next year include strengthening communication between students and the AOP and ensuring their voices are heard in discussions about the profession’s future. I aim to advocate for more support and resources tailored to the unique needs of undergraduate optometrists, particularly in areas like practical training and career development. Additionally, I want to foster a stronger sense of community among students, creating more opportunities for collaboration and peer support across universities.