The AOP and your university
Student representatives
Our student representatives are currently at university studying optometry. Their role is to listen and share student views and experiences with us, so we hear your voice and can address the needs and concerns of optometry students across the UK.
Your student representatives for 2026 – 2027 are listed below.
Anglia Ruskin University
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Zi Yu
Aston
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Umamah Shazad
Bradford
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Jaweria Mahmood
Cardiff
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Daniah Hadeethi
About Heer Kapadia
Being an AOP representative has been an incredible experience, allowing me to build meaningful connections, find a supportive space among fellow reps to seek advice, and gain a deeper understanding of the many underrated advantages within Optometry Today; attending 100% Optical was truly invaluable and an event every student should experience, as it offers so many opportunities to learn and grow, and overall this role has contributed immensely to both my professional and personal development, all nurtured by the supportive AOP family.
City St George’s, University of London
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Danyal Nasim
Huddersfield
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Saahirah Sayed
Manchester
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Sara Areabi
Plymouth
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Andrew Lough
Ulster
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Matilda Wong
University of the Highlands and Islands
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Lauren Forest
If your university doesn’t currently have an student rep, you can apply to become one now!
University visits and presentations
We visit all UK universities offering optometry degrees, and hope to see you at one of our visits or online presentations to your university.
Welcome week and freshers’ fairs
We aim meet all new first year optometry students during your university’s welcome week or freshers’ fair. At these events you can find out more about what we do, how we support you through your studies and career, and the benefits of AOP student membership.
In case you missed it or just want a reminder, you can view our freshers’ presentation.
Legal lectures for second and third year students
The AOP legal team deliver an important lecture for all second and third year optometry students as part of your optometry course. The lecture is presented by our in-house lawyers, and offers expert insight, tips and guidance.
You will find out how to avoid the most common pitfalls and mistakes made by practising optometrists, and what steps you can take right now to safeguard your career. You will also have opportunities to put questions to our experts.
In case you missed it, or just want a reminder, you can view our legal presentation.
