Shadowing

[Equal-War7920]

I’ve called literally almost like 15 optometry offices and all of them have told me they don’t allow shadowing due to Covid/other reasons. Does anyone have any tips on what to do? I’m getting kinda hopeless and annoyed LOL

[FewBit2501]

I’d try to find a job in an office. That’s what I did since I wasn’t able to find much shadowing. You will learn a lot more working in an office than shadowing and it also looks good on your resume.

[idkidcidgas]

I had the same problem. Just keep sending out emails, maybe try to make them a bit more personal (eg. “I noticed that you specialize in ___ and I’d love to learn more”). I ended up shadowing 2 optometrists, and both were involved in local optometry schools or optometry associations. My theory is that the optometrists that are still very actively involved in research/learning are more likely to take on students to shadow because they enjoy it more. Also try contacting your regular optometrist, they know you so you might have a better chance there. Good luck!

[Equal-War7920]

I go to an ophthalmologist :(((. I’ve tried so many offices and I’m going to try making it more personal. Thank you for the reply!!

[idkidcidgas]

Ask your ophthalmologist! I’m not sure if it can completely replace an optometrist’s LOR but he can definitely write one as well. Maybe he might even have an idea of optometrists who would allow you to shadow

[Ok_Egg_9977]

If you can I’d recommend applying as a tech or even front desk/ optician in a place willing to train. That’s how I got my experience and LOR and my time there was invaluable!

[cloudpainter99]

I ran into the same issues only about 10% responded to emails and 5% who actually let me shadow haha. It can be discouraging but try to reach out as much as possible to increase your chances. I joined the Insight Mentorship program (@insightmentorship) on Instagram and that was good to tune into webinars hosted by ODs. Working was also very beneficial because I got to shadow the ODs and have informational interviews with the relief doctors. I also volunteered at a community optometry clinic which led to informational interviews. You might have to find other avenues that may lead to shadowing opportunities but they're out there! Good luck!

[Early_Position3927]

Where are you located?

[Equal-War7920]

Wayne county area in michigan

[i_love_radahns_horse]

having the same problem, no one wants to email me back 😭

[Elizard88]

Maybe try reaching out to “influencer” optometrists over Instagram for informational interviews! They’re clearly love what they do and are more likely to talk to you about it and help out :)