Student rep applications: “The student voice really matters”

The AOP is seeking undergraduate optometrist members who are interested in becoming AOP student representatives for their university in 2022.

The annual campaign to find the next cohort of student reps has launched, with positions open to second year optometry students, or third years at Glasgow Caledonian University.

The university reps play a key role in shaping services for students, helping the AOP to deliver student initiatives and contributing to student-focused communications, such as through social media or Optometry Today.

The AOP highlighted that student reps gain a “rare opportunity” to become involved in shaping the future of the profession, as well as enhancing their own learning opportunities and skills.

Successful candidates will be “enthusiastic, proactive” student optometrists, and likely already closely involved with their optometry society and potentially on, or standing for, the committee.

The position runs from January – December 2022. Applications close on 12 November 2021.

Sharing his experience, Indy Ghuman, third year optometry student at Aston University and chair of the AOP student council, told OT: “I’ve enjoyed having the opportunity to feedback on a lot of topical issues that will affect students and early career optometrists – the student voice really matters and it is up to you to represent that.”

Commenting on what he has gained from being part of the AOP’s student council, Ghuman shared: “I have gained a greater networking ability as the role requires you to meet lots of key figureheads in various organisations whilst also developing those interpersonal skills too.”

The student rep position is an active role, Ghuman explained, advising applicants, “You get what you put in and therefore, the key is to be proactive.”

More information on becoming a student rep, including details of how to apply, can be found on the AOP website.