One of the most important senses for people is sight.Opthalmologists help patients with vision problems and prescribe corrective lens and eye medication.The years will fly by, but with a fascinating and rewarding career waiting for you, you will be able to go through a lot of education.
Step 1: You can get a bachelor's degree in pre-med or science.
An undergraduate degree is required before you can apply to an optometry program.The courses that most schools require are biology, chemistry, physics, English, and mathematics.A degree in biological science will help prepare you for med school.Work hard to get good grades and get a well-rounded undergrad education.Medical schools want to see that you are serious about your studies.Tell your advisor or counselor that you want to become an orthodontist and ask what courses you should be taking.You should check the requirements for the programs you plan on applying to.
Step 2: You can get experience through shadowing.
Shadowing is a great way to get hands-on experience.This will give you an idea of what an eye doctor does.One of the best ways to find out if optometry is right for you is to watch a real optometrist at work, so take advantage of your opportunity and soak up all the wisdom you can!Some people are able to help around the office.From the waiting area to the examination room, try to get a sense of optometry.You can volunteer or try to get a job.If you can't find a practice to work for on your first try, that's fine.An opportunity will come up if you keep looking and meeting as many optometrists as you can.
Step 3: You need to complete a Doctor of Optometry program.
Core classes and hands-on experience will be included in your program.The programs need to be completed in four years at an accredited school.If you want to be an orthodontist, you will be done before you know it, and you can help people in no time.There are courses in biological sciences focused on the eye.
Step 4: You have to pass the Optometry Admission Test.
This test is used to assess your knowledge of science, along with your comprehension and reasoning skills.At Prometric Test Centers, tests are administered year-round.If you study hard and do your best, you will be more likely to be accepted.Don't stress yourself out too much, though; remember that this test, like all of your rigorous education, is geared to make you the best optometrist you can be.You can improve your performance by taking an OAT course.If you need more help, ask for it!
Step 5: Take the exam.
One more test!Every state and country requires this license to practice optometry, so you can't get out of this one, if you're tired of taking exams by this point.You need to have finished your O.D.Before you can get a license, you need a Doctor of Optometry program.You will have to take an exam by a national board of professionals.Part of the licensure process will include a written and clinical portion.Some states require you to take an additional exam before you can get a license.
Step 6: To renew your license, you must continue to meet the requirements.
The requirements to renew your license will require you to keep gaining knowledge throughout your career.In the US, every state requires that optometrists take continuing education classes to keep their license up to date.It is a great opportunity to keep learning and to make sure that you are always at the top of your game as a doctor.What country or state requires you to keep your license up to date?
Step 7: Should you join a practice or start your own?
The field of otoysis is growing and offers good job prospects.Most optometrists are able to find a job.Should you join a practice or start your own?A great way to learn from a veteran is if you work alongside another optometrist for a while before opening your own practice.You can find jobs through contacts you've made in school, on job websites or on mailing lists.
Step 8: If you want to, complete a postgraduate residency program.
You can advance your career by becoming a specialist.You can do an additional one-year residency after you finish your degree.Residency programs allow optometrists to gain practice working in the field under the guidance of professionals and to advance their skills.It is more work, but specializing in an area you are passionate in will lead to a career that is even more fulfilling.Residency programs should be recognized by the ACOE.Examples of residency programs include low vision rehabilitation, geriatric optometry, and family practice.
Step 9: If you want, you can get certified by a national organization.
You may want to try to get certified by a national organization as you go through your career.There are multiple organizations that offer certifications.To receive one of these prestigious honors, you must meet strict guidelines and demonstrate your passion for the field and patients.If you want to keep pushing yourself in your career, this is the time to do it. You already know that you are a great optometrist.