Tough situation. Advice greatly appreciated! :)

[VespertineShade]

To my dearest forum posters/readers,
Let me just say that this is the first time that I have posted on this forum (having just found it like yesterday). Seeing as how everyone here is so supportive in giving advice and information, I would like to try my situation here as well.
A little bit about me -- I'm a young woman from New York attending NYIT at Old Westbury. Initially, my major was BS/DO, the combined 7-year bachelor of science doctor of osteopathic medicine program there. Unfortunately, during my second semester, I had a drastic drop in my grades due to many many problems with my family life and my parents. Because of that, I did not meet the 3.5 GPA and was subsequently kicked out. My parents (probably because of the Asian syndrome) were furious! I am not downgrade to Pre-Med as my major and I don't want to stay as a Pre-Med. My older brother is graduating as a Physician's Assistant this year and my parents want me to become one too.
Of course hell if I want to do that =[ I was always interested in the field of optometry and ophthalmology -- yes I know they're two different things. I was aspiring to become an ophthalmologist when I grew up but now that I got kicked out, I do not feel like I am capable of doing such because of my financial status and my lack of money I have to work while im in school and because of that I cannot afford to take a large courseload.
I wanted to be an opthalmologist because I wanted to be the person that would give people their prescriptions for glasses and contacts and such. I ALWAYS loved to do that. But now I discovered that optometrists do the same. (YAY!)
sadly when I spoke with my parents about it, they got even madder =[
They said optometrists dont make as much money as opthalmologists and they don't have jobs available in hospitals and such and you would have to study at least 7 years to be an optometrist when you could do the same and be an opthalmologist and then make so much more money.
^ Gosh I hate it when they say that. With a salary of 75k at least, I am happy. The 100k + is a luxury. I'd rather be happy doing something I love to do and getting paid less than doing something I dont want to do and getting paid more.
so here comes the real problem: I am planning to apply to the New York College of Optometry in the city. I have fulfilled many (almost all) of their prerequisites with the exception of 2 and I am in my second year of college. However, on their site, they recommend a bachelor's degree from a four-year college. Should I finish all my pre-med classes before applying? Or should I study for the OATs now and apply next fall? *confusion* Any advice on this would be great!! (And very much appreciated)

I had something else to say but I forgot it at the moment, lol!

Thank you for reading
All my love,
-the Lovely Lady VespertineShade

XOXO

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[achirum]

To my dearest forum posters/readers,
Let me just say that this is the first time that I have posted on this forum (having just found it like yesterday). Seeing as how everyone here is so supportive in giving advice and information, I would like to try my situation here as well.
A little bit about me -- I'm a young woman from New York attending NYIT at Old Westbury. Initially, my major was BS/DO, the combined 7-year bachelor of science doctor of osteopathic medicine program there. Unfortunately, during my second semester, I had a drastic drop in my grades due to many many problems with my family life and my parents. Because of that, I did not meet the 3.5 GPA and was subsequently kicked out. My parents (probably because of the Asian syndrome) were furious! I am not downgrade to Pre-Med as my major and I don't want to stay as a Pre-Med. My older brother is graduating as a Physician's Assistant this year and my parents want me to become one too.
Of course hell if I want to do that =[ I was always interested in the field of optometry and ophthalmology -- yes I know they're two different things. I was aspiring to become an ophthalmologist when I grew up but now that I got kicked out, I do not feel like I am capable of doing such because of my financial status and my lack of money I have to work while im in school and because of that I cannot afford to take a large courseload.
I wanted to be an opthalmologist because I wanted to be the person that would give people their prescriptions for glasses and contacts and such. I ALWAYS loved to do that. But now I discovered that optometrists do the same. (YAY!)
sadly when I spoke with my parents about it, they got even madder =[
They said optometrists dont make as much money as opthalmologists and they don't have jobs available in hospitals and such and you would have to study at least 7 years to be an optometrist when you could do the same and be an opthalmologist and then make so much more money.
^ Gosh I hate it when they say that. With a salary of 75k at least, I am happy. The 100k + is a luxury. I'd rather be happy doing something I love to do and getting paid less than doing something I dont want to do and getting paid more.
so here comes the real problem: I am planning to apply to the New York College of Optometry in the city. I have fulfilled many (almost all) of their prerequisites with the exception of 2 and I am in my second year of college. However, on their site, they recommend a bachelor's degree from a four-year college. Should I finish all my pre-med classes before applying? Or should I study for the OATs now and apply next fall? *confusion* Any advice on this would be great!! (And very much appreciated)

I had something else to say but I forgot it at the moment, lol!

Thank you for reading
All my love,
-the Lovely Lady VespertineShade

XOXO

Sorry to hear about the parent pressure. Anyways, you can honestly do whatever you would like. There are several people in my class who did not complete their degrees and are just fine. I don't know how much the admissions committee belabors the 4 year degree.

 

[JMU07]

Out of curiosity - why did you want to be an ophthalmologist to prescribe glasses and not do surgery? They generally don't spend a whole lot of time refracting.

 

[lkg2837]

In response to .."They said optometrists dont make as much money as opthalmologists and they don't have jobs available in hospitals and such and you would have to study at least 7 years to be an optometrist when you could do the same and be an opthalmologist" ... I realize this is coming from your parents, but just wanted to say that of course the route to optometry is quite a bit shorter than that to ophthalmology, and some optometrists do work in hospitals, like VA hospitals.. just saying. =) Not that those are reasons to do optometry vs ophthalmology, but if you're already set on optometry for other reasons, those could be perks.

 

[Arctic]

Dr. Ruggiero, who is a terrific optometrist and low vision specialist, works at the VA hospital where I volunteer, so it is at least a possibility. If you are happy with a 75k+ annual salary, you shouldn't have any problems meeting that goal in optometry. And yes, optometry is a MUCH more direct, and also shorter, route to take into eyecare than is ophthalmology. So, if prescribing glasses and fitting contacts is something you are very interested in, optometry is a GREAT decision. Obviously, if you want to perform anything like cataract sugery, ophthalmology would then be your preference.
I don't know what to say about your parents applying pressure on you, but you should choose your own path in life for what you want, and not do it for anyone else.

 

[ODhopeful]

If you can still get into med school then I would highly encourage you to do so. Being a medical student opens your door to many other career routes, whereas an optometrist can only do pretty much one thing, eyes. With the surplus of ODs out there in the market, I wouldn't necessary recommend anyone going into optometry, at least this point in time. I know many doctors that do very well in optometry, but that's few and far in between. Have you ever considered dental school? I always see these really expensive looking dental offices everywhere, so I assume they do very well. I just don't believe optometry would offer the same type of satisfaction as a MD/DO or a dentist. But what do I know, I'm just an optometrist that's sitting in his little room at a commercial dump with no patients to see. Good luck.

 

[OD4eyes]

You really have to love optometry in order to dedicate your life to it. Their many challenges that you will have to face; not just academically but also in the workforce. I encourage to do your research and make sure you make the decision that is right for you. Good Luck!

 

[VespertineShade]

Sorry to hear about the parent pressure. Anyways, you can honestly do whatever you would like. There are several people in my class who did not complete their degrees and are just fine. I don't know how much the admissions committee belabors the 4 year degree.

Dearest achirum,
I always have to deal with the pressure. It stinks royally =[
I was just wondering whether or not I should study for OATs now and apply or finish my four years of college and apply. I know you know some people who havent but im just afraid =[
By spending massive time studying for the OATs, I dont wanna mess up in school and have my GPA sink enough that it would negatively affect my application.

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[VespertineShade]

Out of curiosity - why did you want to be an ophthalmologist to prescribe glasses and not do surgery? They generally don't spend a whole lot of time refracting.

Dearest JMU07,
In response to your curious question, I must say that I wanted to do something related to eye care. When I was younger I wasnt sure as to what kind of "job" did the glasses prescribing and such and I was told that ophthalmologists did so. And it stuck with me ever since.
You know asian parents. they are always like doctor, doctor, DOCTOR! (no offense to any of my ethnic peers if your parents arent like this) so all my life i have always been pushed to the doctor. I was not allowed to research anything because it was assumed I'd become a family doctor.
In the end, I did some volunteer work in the hospital and shadowed an ophthalmologist and figured out that I didnt like it too much. I saw an eye surgery and knowing the kind of personality that I have, I definitely cannot cut someone's eye or any body parts for that matter -- making any surgery out of the question.
So prescribing glasses and contacts became my interest and here I am correcting myself and steering my career toward optometry

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[VespertineShade]

In response to .."They said optometrists dont make as much money as opthalmologists and they don't have jobs available in hospitals and such and you would have to study at least 7 years to be an optometrist when you could do the same and be an opthalmologist" ... I realize this is coming from your parents, but just wanted to say that of course the route to optometry is quite a bit shorter than that to ophthalmology, and some optometrists do work in hospitals, like VA hospitals.. just saying. =) Not that those are reasons to do optometry vs ophthalmology, but if you're already set on optometry for other reasons, those could be perks.

Dearest lkg2837,
This may sound really stupid, but what exactly ARE VA hospitals?
^.^

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[VespertineShade]

Dr. Ruggiero, who is a terrific optometrist and low vision specialist, works at the VA hospital where I volunteer, so it is at least a possibility. If you are happy with a 75k+ annual salary, you shouldn't have any problems meeting that goal in optometry. And yes, optometry is a MUCH more direct, and also shorter, route to take into eyecare than is ophthalmology. So, if prescribing glasses and fitting contacts is something you are very interested in, optometry is a GREAT decision. Obviously, if you want to perform anything like cataract sugery, ophthalmology would then be your preference.
I don't know what to say about your parents applying pressure on you, but you should choose your own path in life for what you want, and not do it for anyone else.

Dearest Arctic,
Thank you SO much for your advice <--- It made me smile, see?
I am actually looking for places to intern and such like a summer intern and so. Have any ideas?

XOXO,
-VespertineShade
PS. Nope, no cataract surgery for me, lol. I cant even dissect a worm in bio class =[ Or a chick last year, or even a pig =[ Poor things =[

 

[VespertineShade]

If you can still get into med school then I would highly encourage you to do so. Being a medical student opens your door to many other career routes, whereas an optometrist can only do pretty much one thing, eyes. With the surplus of ODs out there in the market, I wouldn't necessary recommend anyone going into optometry, at least this point in time. I know many doctors that do very well in optometry, but that's few and far in between. Have you ever considered dental school? I always see these really expensive looking dental offices everywhere, so I assume they do very well. I just don't believe optometry would offer the same type of satisfaction as a MD/DO or a dentist. But what do I know, I'm just an optometrist that's sitting in his little room at a commercial dump with no patients to see. Good luck.

Dearest ODhopeful,
With my mental capabilities, I am not certain I can get into medical school. Like my parents tell me all the time, I am too stupid and lack the common sense that doctors need to be successful. =[
I am just trying to do something I am interested in, even if there are less patients to see and such.
If you dont mind me asking, where do you practice?
And regarding dental school, I have braces, and they are a hell of a nuisance. I cant put them into someone else =[ I cant do that to someone =[
And if you do sit in an office with no patients to see, why dont you consider working for a company?

XOXO,
-VespertineShade
PS. Sorry for all the questions. Cheer up hun, I'm sure you'll have patients soon (and LOTS of them!)

 

[VespertineShade]

You really have to love optometry in order to dedicate your life to it. Their many challenges that you will have to face; not just academically but also in the workforce. I encourage to do your research and make sure you make the decision that is right for you. Good Luck!

Dearest OD4eyes,
Are you already an optometrist? Maybe you can describe the challenges to mee
I'd love to know!
I am in the process of research, but I am already in my second year of college and I am trying my hardest to quickly find a career that I love.

It's sorta weird lol. Everyone says that the best career for me would be something in engineering because I excel in subjects like physics but I dont really enjoy that kind of stuff. I am a car person, yes, but I dont wanna be a mechanic. Being an optometrist is more interesting to me and it seems like lots of fun!

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[KHE]

I had something else to say but I forgot it at the moment, lol!

Thank you for reading
All my love,
-the Lovely Lady VespertineShade

XOXO

Respectfully, it would appear that you have a fair amount of work to do if you only recently realized that optometrists prescribe glasses and contact lenses.

The first thing I would suggest you do is to get away from the notion of trying to please your parents with your career choice because you're going to be doing this career long after your parents are gone. I don't pretend to understand "asian syndrome" because I'm about as WASPy as they come but the reality of the situation is that you live in the USA and in the USA we allow young people to choose their career and choose their mates.

Secondly, you need to start shadowing some ODs in various practice settings because from the sound of your post you're choosing optometry because you (and your parents) want you to be a doctor of some kind and since you don't think you can get into medical school optometry is good enough.

Well, as sure as I've got a crack in my butt, that is a recipe for a long a miserable career. So get out there and start talking to ODs in various practice settings and make sure that this is truly a career that YOU want to do, not just something that sounds kewl because "hey, I get to be an eye doctor and prescribe contact lenses."

 

[KHE]

But what do I know, I'm just an optometrist that's sitting in his little room at a commercial dump with no patients to see. Good luck.

You need to get out of that dump.

 

[VespertineShade]

Respectfully, it would appear that you have a fair amount of work to do if you only recently realized that optometrists prescribe glasses and contact lenses.

The first thing I would suggest you do is to get away from the notion of trying to please your parents with your career choice because you're going to be doing this career long after your parents are gone. I don't pretend to understand "asian syndrome" because I'm about as WASPy as they come but the reality of the situation is that you live in the USA and in the USA we allow young people to choose their career and choose their mates.

Secondly, you need to start shadowing some ODs in various practice settings because from the sound of your post you're choosing optometry because you (and your parents) want you to be a doctor of some kind and since you don't think you can get into medical school optometry is good enough.

Well, as sure as I've got a crack in my butt, that is a recipe for a long a miserable career. So get out there and start talking to ODs in various practice settings and make sure that this is truly a career that YOU want to do, not just something that sounds kewl because "hey, I get to be an eye doctor and prescribe contact lenses."

Dearest KHE,
I see from your member status that you are an actual optometrist! That's so wonderful to hear
And yes, I do believe that I have TONS of work to do! Did you know that I go to NYIT as a former BS/DO now Pre-Med because my parents told me to?
They are the nosy kind you know, if I changed majors, i'd be in hell for the rest of my life! =[ I cant change schools, majors, NADA. I have no money no nothing. Thus, I do not have the LIBERTY of changing my career.
When they found out I had a boyfriend (who was not in school to become a doctor, no less) OMFG. They went on my ass.!
Besides, I dont want to be an optometrist because I cant go to med school. Or because of my parents. I want to because I want to. and yes, I think it is "kewl" HAHAHAHAHA!!
How cute

And as for shadowing ODs, I have no idea how to begin?! =[
How is your job like?
^.^

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[sugarhype10]

I'm also Asian, but I've never experienced such pressures from my parents. What you describe seems pretty excessive to me... Good luck with that.

But anyway, just go to yellowpages.com or something and look up local optometrists. Make many phone calls and let them know that you're a pre-optometry student who wants to shadow a doctor to learn more about the career. You might have to make some follow-up calls because sometimes they don't get back to you like they say they will. As suggested, try to shadow optometrists in as many different settings as possible: solo, group, retail, maybe even hospital. You don't have to spend several weeks with them, just 2-3 days for several hours should be good enough. I only shadowed a couple of optometrists for a total of 16 hours and I was accepted. Schools just want to know that you're fully aware of what you're getting yourself into, which doesn't take a ridiculous amount of shadowing.

 

[sammyboy]

lose the XOXO stuff

 

[OD4eyes]

Well, I am pre-optometry student and will be an optometry student in the fall. I too have no money and was very lucky to get my experience by applying to jobs related in optometry. I started working in corporate optometry as an sales person. I also participated in paid internship in SUNY and fortunately I now work for an optometrist as an optometric techncian and have been working there for 2 years. Go out and explore the profession. And you will be able to develop your own opinion.

Let us know how it goes.

 

[blysssful]

I think before you go any further in this path, you need to assess what it is that YOU want to do with your life. Do you even LIKE science, or are you just in this field to avoid disappointing your parents? Regardless, if you don't stand up for yourself at some point, you are going to be doing what they want you to do for the rest of your life, without ever figuring out what it is you want for yourself. If you're the one working for it, I'm not sure how fair that is.

Also, I'm pretty sure that most, if not all, of the students in SUNY's program without a bachelor's degree are people who participated in a 3/4 program (which I guess is similar to what you were previously planning on doing).

With all that being said, I believe it is definitely a terrible idea to try to apply for this cycle. If optometry is such a recent revelation that you didn't even know it existed before, rushing into it is NOT a good idea. Additionally, it is currently mid-November and I'd estimate by the time you actually got your application complete, it wouldn't be any earlier than a month from now, best case scenario... by the time you were granted an interview (assuming you would get one), the class would probably be full. So, take the time to figure out what the hell you actually want out of life, and don't rush into a career that will put you hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt unless you're REALLY SURE that it is what you want to do. Cause once you make up your mind, it's not easy to turn around and do something else.

 

[VespertineShade]

I'm also Asian, but I've never experienced such pressures from my parents. What you describe seems pretty excessive to me... Good luck with that.

But anyway, just go to yellowpages.com or something and look up local optometrists. Make many phone calls and let them know that you're a pre-optometry student who wants to shadow a doctor to learn more about the career. You might have to make some follow-up calls because sometimes they don't get back to you like they say they will. As suggested, try to shadow optometrists in as many different settings as possible: solo, group, retail, maybe even hospital. You don't have to spend several weeks with them, just 2-3 days for several hours should be good enough. I only shadowed a couple of optometrists for a total of 16 hours and I was accepted. Schools just want to know that you're fully aware of what you're getting yourself into, which doesn't take a ridiculous amount of shadowing.

Dearest sugarhype10,
Thank you SO much for your advice!! I'll have some time later today to make some phone calls and I'll definitely keep what you said in mind.
Wish me luck!!

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[VespertineShade]

lose the XOXO stuff

Dearest sammyboy,
"lose the XOXO"?
That's one of my trademarks =[
May I ask why? <----- will probably be cause for a nasty post in reply

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[VespertineShade]

I think before you go any further in this path, you need to assess what it is that YOU want to do with your life. Do you even LIKE science, or are you just in this field to avoid disappointing your parents? Regardless, if you don't stand up for yourself at some point, you are going to be doing what they want you to do for the rest of your life, without ever figuring out what it is you want for yourself. If you're the one working for it, I'm not sure how fair that is.

Also, I'm pretty sure that most, if not all, of the students in SUNY's program without a bachelor's degree are people who participated in a 3/4 program (which I guess is similar to what you were previously planning on doing).

With all that being said, I believe it is definitely a terrible idea to try to apply for this cycle. If optometry is such a recent revelation that you didn't even know it existed before, rushing into it is NOT a good idea. Additionally, it is currently mid-November and I'd estimate by the time you actually got your application complete, it wouldn't be any earlier than a month from now, best case scenario... by the time you were granted an interview (assuming you would get one), the class would probably be full. So, take the time to figure out what the hell you actually want out of life, and don't rush into a career that will put you hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt unless you're REALLY SURE that it is what you want to do. Cause once you make up your mind, it's not easy to turn around and do something else.

Dearest blysssful,
O.M.G. where to begin?
I was sorta waiting for your opinion, after reading your sticky on the forums. So let's see.
I used to tell people that I was an artist before I was a doctor. Because I love art and I love design. But after coming to NYIT, I must admit that I also find myself to have a growing interest in science, being that bio is my fav subject in school (after literature of course <--- i like reading too ). Perhaps my parents were right about that: you know like once I get into it i'll like it. I confess I havent liked chemistry too much, however. As for the standing up for myself part.. a wee bit tough since I dont wanna get kicked out of my house because I dont have anywhere else to go. I've been homeless many times after being kicked out and I always find myself coming back. I'd imagine you replying to this to tell me to get a job but when I do, my grades in school just tank and I hate to have that happen. I dont even want to mention to my parents about optometry because they simply go ballistic :'( Maybe you're right and I do need to take the time to think this all through.

Thanks a lot for the advice

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[lkg2837]

No worries, here is a link to more info: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-va-hospital.htm (basically, hospitals that provide care to US military veterans) ..I loved the VA hospital in my city when I job shadowed, because all of the health care for the patients there is integrated (they can go there for everything!) and so (from my understanding) optometrists there have access to all of their health care info within the VA system, which can be really informative and helpful in getting a more comprehensive picture of your patients. Plus, where I went, they have an impressive low vision clinic, which I found great too.

Dearest lkg2837,
This may sound really stupid, but what exactly ARE VA hospitals?
^.^

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[VespertineShade]

No worries, here is a link to more info: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-va-hospital.htm (basically, hospitals that provide care to US military veterans) ..I loved the VA hospital in my city when I job shadowed, because all of the health care for the patients there is integrated (they can go there for everything!) and so (from my understanding) optometrists there have access to all of their health care info within the VA system, which can be really informative and helpful in getting a more comprehensive picture of your patients. Plus, where I went, they have an impressive low vision clinic, which I found great too.

Dearest lkg2837,
Oh! How interesting I should look into these VA hospitals
Sounds like fun!
I'll let you know what happens

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

 

[blysssful]

Dearest blysssful,
O.M.G. where to begin?
I was sorta waiting for your opinion, after reading your sticky on the forums. So let's see.
I used to tell people that I was an artist before I was a doctor. Because I love art and I love design. But after coming to NYIT, I must admit that I also find myself to have a growing interest in science, being that bio is my fav subject in school (after literature of course <--- i like reading too ). Perhaps my parents were right about that: you know like once I get into it i'll like it. I confess I havent liked chemistry too much, however. As for the standing up for myself part.. a wee bit tough since I dont wanna get kicked out of my house because I dont have anywhere else to go. I've been homeless many times after being kicked out and I always find myself coming back. I'd imagine you replying to this to tell me to get a job but when I do, my grades in school just tank and I hate to have that happen. I dont even want to mention to my parents about optometry because they simply go ballistic :'( Maybe you're right and I do need to take the time to think this all through.

Thanks a lot for the advice

XOXO,
-VespertineShade

I can relate to your situation to an extent. When I was in high school, my photography teacher told me that with my portfolio and his recommendation, I would be admitted to any photography school in the country. When I told my parents this, they reasoned with me that I could do what I wanted, but what THEY would pay for would be for me to go to an in-state university (VA is well known for its fantastic education), while pursuing a "real major". Obviously, I found that I have other passions as well and NOW I know that my parents simply wanted me to pursue something with more stability than photography.

I wasn't suggesting that in order to be successful in optometry you shouldn't like other courses as well--it's important to be a well rounded person (not for your applications, just in general). I was just wondering if you genuinely liked the classes, or whether it was something that you were trying to do well in because of the parental pressure. And no, you definitely don't have to LOVE every science class you take... but the end has to justify the means. If you're only so-so about a future in healthcare, making yourself miserable for 8+ years of school doesn't seem worth it to me.

I also wasn't suggesting that you need to cut off ties with your family. By suggesting that you "stand up" for yourself, I meant more of an approach that would show them WHY you are leaning away from medical school. If, upon more research on your part, you find that optometry is what you want to do, then you can include them in the process. Explain the importance of the field to them. Have them come with you if you tour schools or talk to admissions officers. Show them that even though you might not be pursuing what they initially feel is the only acceptable option for you, you will be pursuing a meaningful and worthy career. Honestly, they might not even know what optometrists do, outside of the Walmart or Lenscrafters setting. You could even mention that being an optometrist is generally much more family-friendly than an MD/OD.

If you feel that you can't even bring up the topic of conversation to them without the threat of being kicked out of your house, consider talking to a counselor about the best way to approach the subject.

First things first though, figure out if it's something YOU want to do.

 

[mshea413]

lose the XOXO stuff

and the dearest stuff

 

[Arctic]

No worries, here is a link to more info: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-va-hospital.htm (basically, hospitals that provide care to US military veterans) ..I loved the VA hospital in my city when I job shadowed, because all of the health care for the patients there is integrated (they can go there for everything!) and so (from my understanding) optometrists there have access to all of their health care info within the VA system, which can be really informative and helpful in getting a more comprehensive picture of your patients. Plus, where I went, they have an impressive low vision clinic, which I found great too.

I can attest to the accuracy of everything in this post, as I have seen all of this in my extensive volunteer experience at the Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, NY. Also of note, there are LOTS of ophthalmologists at VA hospitals, so it provides an excellent environment for witnessing the interactions between optometry and ophthalmology. I overwhelmingly recommend that students interested in almost any health profession should try and observe or even volunteer at a VA hospital if possible.


VespertineShade, again I can't comment much on your parental situation, but others have done so. One thing I can gather, though, is that your parents appear not to view optometry as a respectable health profession. That's quite unfortunate, and I don't know if you can do anything about it based on your descriptions of them.

I agree with blysssful that you should not try and commit yourself to optometry at this point, simply because you don't have too much experience with it yet. I highly encourage you to continue to explore optometry as a career option, but do keep your mind open to other possibilities.

As for your greetings of "dearest" while I have no problem with it, it would be far more professional to not use that. Saying "dear" if you must use such a greeting, sounds much better I think. I really don't think it's much of a deal, though, especially when you consider some of the outlandish things that have been said on SDN. As for the XOXO ending, I'm not even sure what that means so I can't comment on that.

 

[sammyboy]

As for the XOXO ending, I'm not even sure what that means so I can't comment on that.

It means hugs and kisses. X's are kisses. O's are hugs. Not only do I find her "trademarks" (dearest and XOXO) to be pretentious, I find it idiotic and unnecessary as well.

 

[blysssful]

It means hugs and kisses. X's are kisses. O's are hugs. Not only do I find her "trademarks" (dearest and XOXO) to be pretentious, I find it idiotic and unnecessary as well.

Live and let live. There are far worse culprits of pretentious, idiotic and unnecessary posting on these forums.

 

[sammyboy]

Live and let live. There are far worse culprits of pretentious, idiotic and unnecessary posting on these forums.

I agree with you, blysssful.

 

[ODhopeful]

You need to get out of that dump.

Only if I wasn't a new grad in Houston. Believe me, there are many other seasoned ODs who would gladly be in my position because at least I get paid to sit on my butt and do nothing.

 

[eyepdesai]

Dearest ODhopeful,
With my mental capabilities, I am not certain I can get into medical school. Like my parents tell me all the time, I am too stupid and lack the common sense that doctors need to be successful. =[
I am just trying to do something I am interested in, even if there are less patients to see and such.
If you dont mind me asking, where do you practice?
And regarding dental school, I have braces, and they are a hell of a nuisance. I cant put them into someone else =[ I cant do that to someone =[
And if you do sit in an office with no patients to see, why dont you consider working for a company?

XOXO,
-VespertineShade
PS. Sorry for all the questions. Cheer up hun, I'm sure you'll have patients soon (and LOTS of them!)

Wow. Umm, I HIGHLY suggest that you do a complete and thorough research of optometry, including the specialties (low vision, peds, ocular disease), the potential lifestyle as an opt, the clinical settings you can work in, the common diseases and disorders you will face as an optometrist, the schools' curriculi, and the requirements for optometry schools. The optometry curriculum is just as difficult and demanding as medical school is. If you compare the opt curriculum vs med curriculum, opt students take many of the same courses (biochem, immunology, anatomy, etc) that med students do. Just like one of the posters said, you really have to love everything about the eyes and want to know everything about them, that is, if you truely want to be an optometrist. A mere "interest" in the eyes and optometry doesn't cut it.

And the "common sense" that you claim to lack is actually a requirement for optometrists or any kind of doctor for that matter. You need critical thinking skills. No one wants their optometrist or doctor of any specialty to think they lack the common sense or the mental capabilities to diagnose them. If you don't have common sense, do NOT do optometry! I beg of you!

AND DO NOT DO OPTOMETRY FOR THE SAKE OF "TAKING THE EASY WAY OUT". You'll find that it's not easy. Making excuses for yourself doesn't help either.

I understand the (South)Asian syndrome, as I too had to face incredible disappointment from my parents when I switched gears from pre-med to pre-optometry. But I persisted and corrected all their misconceptions of optometry, I told them exactly what I'll be doing, how much money I will be making and the lifestyle that I will have and pretty much told them to suck it up and get used to it (of course, in the nicest manner I could conjure up). And lo and behold, they've finally accepted it!

I HIGHLY suggest spending several weeks shadowing different optometrists, from dawn til dusk. Then you will get a better sense of what optometrists really do all day. Don't make generalizations or assumptions about the profession when you haven't even done your research. VA hospitals provide health care to those who have served and fought in the military. In my opinion, it's an excellent setting to work in, as you will be exposed to many diseases (ocular and systemic), the usual visual disorders, as well as their psychological issues that result from going to war.

I hope this encourages you to research further, as optometry is not as easy as you think. Don't make excuses for yourself--just put yourself out there, just randomly walk into (or call) an opt office, introduce yourself to the optometrist and ask if you can shadow them. It's simple. They worst they can do is say no.

P.S. Cut the XO's and excessive characters. This isn't a blog, it is supposed to be professional forum.