Can any recent optometry grads discuss/elaborate on their efforts to successfully secure a respectable, full time position that allows them to pay their student loans without difficulty?
There is obviously an overwhelming sense of negativity towards the profession and its job prospects here on SDN, but I think it would be nice to hear from recent grads who have had firsthand experience themselves (whether it be struggling to find a FT position, having to work multiple part time jobs, or successfully attaining a FT salaried position with benefits). Though I can appreciate peoples brutal honesty and effort to educate naïve pre-opts about the current state of the profession, Im just not certain if its exaggerated or the reality of optometry.
Did you acquire the job via networking through clinical rotations? Personal connections? Randomly apply? How long did you search before getting the position(s)? How many positions did you apply to before actually attaining one? Was your school supportive in helping you find the position? What kind of setting? Salary? What state do you practice in? Did you have to relocate? And on the opposite side of the spectrum, if youve recently hired an OD: how many people applied for the position, how many did you interview, salaried or hourly and at how much?
Im sure not too many people would be thrilled about divulging information about their difficulties, but I dont personally know any recent grads and the thought of such bleak job prospects after all the time, effort and money is rather disturbing and making me consider other professions (even though Im set to begin opt school this fall). Every post that could provide insight helps. Thanks in advance!
There is obviously an overwhelming sense of negativity towards the profession and its job prospects here on SDN, but I think it would be nice to hear from recent grads who have had firsthand experience themselves (whether it be struggling to find a FT position, having to work multiple part time jobs, or successfully attaining a FT salaried position with benefits). Though I can appreciate peoples brutal honesty and effort to educate naïve pre-opts about the current state of the profession, Im just not certain if its exaggerated or the reality of optometry.
Did you acquire the job via networking through clinical rotations? Personal connections? Randomly apply? How long did you search before getting the position(s)? How many positions did you apply to before actually attaining one? Was your school supportive in helping you find the position? What kind of setting? Salary? What state do you practice in? Did you have to relocate? And on the opposite side of the spectrum, if youve recently hired an OD: how many people applied for the position, how many did you interview, salaried or hourly and at how much?
Im sure not too many people would be thrilled about divulging information about their difficulties, but I dont personally know any recent grads and the thought of such bleak job prospects after all the time, effort and money is rather disturbing and making me consider other professions (even though Im set to begin opt school this fall). Every post that could provide insight helps. Thanks in advance!
