11 May 2023
Applications are open for the AOP’s next cohort of student representatives.
The AOP is seeking students to represent the 15 optometry courses at universities in the UK, who will share views and experiences to help develop AOP student initiatives.
Successful applicants will be in their first or second year of study, and be passionate about “developing ideas and initiatives to better protect, support and represent student optometrists.”
Applicants may already be involved in a university optometry society or standing for committee.
During their role, student representatives will attend meetings and events, network with other students, learn from experienced optometrists and work with AOP teams.
Student representatives may also receive events invites, with the opportunity for public speaking if they wish, and contribute to member communications, social media and Optometry Today.
Successful candidates could also be considered for future positions on AOP Council.
The application period is open until 18 May. Interested students are encouraged to complete and submit the AOP student representative application form. See the AOP website for more details.
“The best part, I think, is the friendships that you’ll make along the way”
Describing himself as a person who enjoys a challenge, Sah said, “I knew this role would be different to anything that I have done previously. I also wanted to support the students both at my local university, and nationally, by creating helpful resources online and answering questions for them.”
Reflecting on the past year of being a student representative, Sah said: “This role has far exceeded my expectations and I’m glad that I did it.”
Highlighting the experience of introducing guest speakers on stage at 100% Optical this year, Sah said that while there could be “daunting” moments, “the AOP team was always there to support us.”
“Over the past year, I’ve met so many new people and learned a lot more about optometry, which has made me even more excited and passionate about my future profession,” he added.
“I highly recommend anyone considering this role to apply. It has enriched my university experience and made me realise how much larger optometry is than I initially thought,” Sah continued. “It’s a great way to grow your network and build skills like public speaking which looks great on your CV.”
He added: “The best part, I think, is the friendships that you’ll make along the way.”
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