How can I shadow???

[sosoraff]

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I am trying to set up a shadowing experience....I do not know any O.D.s and I have no idea where to begin looking for one to shadow....Is it possible to just contact a local practice and ask them or is that un-heard of?

 

[prettygreeneyes]

I am trying to set up a shadowing experience....I do not know any O.D.s and I have no idea where to begin looking for one to shadow....Is it possible to just contact a local practice and ask them or is that un-heard of?

Contacting a local practice is definitely not unheard of! I did some shadowing at the VA clinic, and all I did to set that up was let them know that I was applying to optometry school and was interested in doing some observation. Most optometrists will be happy to help, or at the very least, they will be kind and let you know that now might not be the best time. I would suggest starting with an optometrist that you or a family member goes to. If they are unable to help, they may be able to refer you to someone who can! Best of luck... p.greeneyes

 

[Rusunn]

I am trying to set up a shadowing experience....I do not know any O.D.s and I have no idea where to begin looking for one to shadow....Is it possible to just contact a local practice and ask them or is that un-heard of?

Just go to a couple ODs in the area and ask them if you could observe some time. I suggest going to the practice because you can wait in the waiting room until the doctor has a second to talk to you. If you call, the staff member may tell you the doctor is with a patient and s/he will call you back. That will probably take a while. Plus, it is always harder to say no to someone if they are standing in front of you as opposed to over the phone. If you are a little nervous to just pop-in, make an appointment if you have not had an exam in a while and while you are there start asking questions.

I did this and every single optometrist that i asked said yes and they were all very nice. in fact, all optometrists that i have met so far are all very nice!

 

[gioiarioia]

I visited a local OD that I had never met before to inquire about shadowing. He gave me a mini interview (to sum me up, I guess) before he would allow me to shadow. Ultimately I shadowed in his office for about 40 hours (all day for several consecutive Mondays). It was really a great experience. You have nothing to be afraid of in asking... all they can say is no (and they won't).

 

[Ben Chudner]

I am trying to set up a shadowing experience....I do not know any O.D.s and I have no idea where to begin looking for one to shadow....Is it possible to just contact a local practice and ask them or is that un-heard of?

Where are you located? It's possible that one of us knows someone in your area and could help you out.