Hey Joe I am a high school student considering podiatry myself,
Both of the two are great professions, but you like others have said you must choose the one for youself.
Just to point out some differences and similarities:
1. Some Podiatry schools take the OAT, so you can apply to both Podiatry and Optometry Schools
2. Remember Optometrists are no Ophthalmologists, you can't perform surgery; however, podiatrists can
3. Podiatry has a 2-3 year residency after it, I'm not sure about Optometry
4. Optometry is becoming primary eye care while ophthalmology is the specialty; if you like specialized cases and surgery head for podiatry.
5. Podiatrists do make more money (175,000), while optometry is around (100,000)
Just out of curiosity, not many high school students know that podiatry and optometry exist. They think they are just specialized MDs. You are pretty advanced and out there . May I ask why are you interested in these professions and not in regular MD medicine? Remember, your undergraduate experience will be totally different than high school. You might turn out to be a genius, if you apply yourself, but you could also go the other way. In conclusion, if you think medicine is too hard, remember you still have a choice; the undergraduate education for all 3 professions is the same.
I'm a high school student considering podiatry also. Just be warned, the MCATS for podiatry are low; many allopathics consider it a profession for stupid pre-meds. This is a stereotype you will have to face. Other reasons for going into podiatry are: you are looking for an easy to get into; laid back profession, where you can do anything a doctor can do, without studying and working your but off 24/7.
Check out my thread in the Podiatry (Not Pre) Forum. I got totally bashed, but managed to refute most of their claims. However, I get PMed by some real podiatrists right out of residency. I could hook them up with you if you like.
Also, many students (on Student Doctor) will tell you to relax and shadow everywhere in your undergrad or to take it easy ect. However, I advise you to be sure in your career choice. If you decide on Podiatry or Optometry, find combined degree programs.
These programs allow you to get into professional school while in high school. Imagine, while all of your friends are getting into just their undergrad, you show up with a letter of (contingent) admission to OD or DPM school! Other advantages besides being easy to get into (you are cutting competition in half), is that most programs shorten the undergraduate portion of your schooling: ie you can get a DPM in 7 years instead of 8. Remember your Bachelors does not matter if you have a professional degree.
Anyway, I will advise you to research combined degree programs if you are set on your career choice.
Feel free to PM me.
Darklord
