Career development

OT  heard from a number of students about the work experiences they have secured despite the pressures of the pandemic, as well as their views on the future

OT  asked employers, careers advisors, AOP experts, and students for their advice on what makes the ideal pre-reg applicant, tips for interviewing, and how to stave off stress when applying

One year after the first report investigating the impact of the pandemic on optometry students and pre-regs, OT  looks back at how students have adapted to the challenges, and how employers are supporting the next generation of the profession

Pre-reg optometrist at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Thaksha Sritharan, on organising her competencies six months in

Amna Wajid, pre-reg dispensing optician and student optometrist, on her interest in research and turning her thesis into an article

Caroline Mansfield, pre-reg optometrist at Specsavers Haverfordwest, on finding support and encouragement during a busy year

Three early career optometrists tell OT  how their experiences of domiciliary care have outshone industry perception

Chris Gould, director of Home Vision Care Ltd, on finding his vocation in domiciliary after decades in the industry

Holly Leitch, pre-registration optometrist at Urquhart Opticians in Kilmarnock, on finding her voice in her first few months

Thaksha Sritharan, pre-registration optometrist at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, reflects on securing a placement during the pandemic