So as a first year I know I have a while to decide which field of medicine I want to pursue. I've sort of been passively researching different medical fields and always felt like none of them fit me and didn't see myself doing any of them. I happened to have a conversation with a Ophthalmologist this past weekend and have been reading up on the specialty ever since. For the first time in my life I am actually curious and excited about a field of medicine. I knew I wanted to do something with my hands because I've always had very good manual dexterity (i drew a lot growing up). The fact that the field contains both the surgical aspects and diagnostic aspects of medicine is great and the idea of focusing on and becoming an expert of one area of the body is appealing to me. Plus I found the eye lectures in med school fascinating.

Anyway, if anyone has any advice on how to match into the field, or just things you wish you would of known in medical school i'd really appreciate it. Even though I'm only a first year, it can't hurt to learn about what it takes.

Even if you don't have any advice, I'd like to hear how you knew ophtho was the right field for you.

(I've read the FAQ)

Two suggestions for those interested in ophthalmology early:

1. Apply for a summer fellowship between 1st and 2nd year (fight for sight, research to prevent blindness) to work with a well-known ophthalmologist. Unfortunately, the deadlines for these fellowships have likely passed already.

2. Attend grand rounds and introduce yourself to the chair and faculty of your department. Grand rounds are a great place to see leaders in ophthalmology present research, cases, etc.... This is also a great way to learn about the different disciplines within ophthalmology.

So as a first year I know I have a while to decide which field of medicine I want to pursue. I've sort of been passively researching different medical fields and always felt like none of them fit me and didn't see myself doing any of them. I happened to have a conversation with a Ophthalmologist this past weekend and have been reading up on the specialty ever since. For the first time in my life I am actually curious and excited about a field of medicine. I knew I wanted to do something with my hands because I've always had very good manual dexterity (i drew a lot growing up). The fact that the field contains both the surgical aspects and diagnostic aspects of medicine is great and the idea of focusing on and becoming an expert of one area of the body is appealing to me. Plus I found the eye lectures in med school fascinating.

Anyway, if anyone has any advice on how to match into the field, or just things you wish you would of known in medical school i'd really appreciate it. Even though I'm only a first year, it can't hurt to learn about what it takes.

Even if you don't have any advice, I'd like to hear how you knew ophtho was the right field for you.

(I've read the FAQ)


How to match successfully:

- Do well in med school (AOA if possible).
- Do Ophthalmology research and network with your school's Ophthalmology department.
- Do well on Step 1.
- Get good letters of recommendations.
- Turn in your application early.
- Interview well.
- Actually care about the eye by learning as much about it as possible.

That's it.

There is no 'secret' formula to matching in Ophtho. BTW, these are the same steps to match well in any medical field.

-J