Optometry Personal Statement

Optometry is a profession which requires several skills which are used throughout one’s career. An example is the ability to put patients at ease swiftly, yet caringly. It is one of the few careers involving care for a person from the cradle to the grave. There is constant one on one interaction, which places great stress upon communication skills. It is for these reasons that I am committed to Optometry as a degree course and eventual career.
I feel that optometry would be inspiring and a profession which both fulfils one’s intellectual interests, and also offers the satisfaction of a clear sense of purpose. I am a dedicated and compassionate, whilst remaining realistic about the demands of a challenging job. In my specific case, this would
I enjoy working with people and I certainly believe I communicate well with people with all ages, from different backgrounds. I am always eager to learn new skills and can apply myself to difficult tasks in difficult situations.
I have also carried out a work placement at a local pharmacy. This experience encouraged me to develop some of the personal skills that I believe are necessary for working as an optician. During the placement I had the opportunity to interact with customers. Through this I learnt how much I enjoy work in which I can offer advice to people, and also felt a gratifying sense of responsibility in response to the fact that the advice I gave them regarding non-prescription medication could play a role in alleviating the symptoms of their health problems.
In my spare time I have participated in a range of activities that also allow me to be involved with helping people. In Year 12 I mentored a group of Year 7 students; I enjoyed being able to make them feel less apprehensive about starting life in secondary school. I have been involved with several fund-raising initiatives for Afrikids and Cancer Research, such as selling cakes and doing a sponsored walk. These activities gave me a sense of satisfaction through allowing me to work as part of a team with a common goal. My sense of teamwork has also been improved by my involvement in my school’s
During the placement I shadowed different opticians as they performed a range of services, such as eye tests and contact lens fittings. I learnt that in optometry good communication skills are vital. Without them, it would be much more difficult to guide customers and patients through what can often be complex procedures. Perhaps even more importantly, it is also necessary for opticians to act with empathy and patience in cases where patients are experiencing vision problems or feel distressed by the prospect of undergoing tests. During my placement I also had the opportunity to spend time in the laboratory, where I observed – and sometimes participated in – the processes that go into preparing lenses and frames. The experience gave me a much greater appreciation of the technical skills involved in making glasses, as well as a better understanding of the different types of lenses that are used. Because I found the work placement so rewarding, I have continued to work at the same optician as a volunteer every