Shadowing Questions

[dee39]

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Now that my spring semester is officially over and my summer (free time) is under way, I wanted to ask you all for some shadowing tips. I have many ODs in my area to shadow. When I say many, I mean MANY. From the Wal-Mart/Costco Optometric centers to dozens and dozens of private practices.

First thing I'd like to ask is just what exactly is the typical shadowing experience like? Do I HAVE to observe a typical week day of various patients coming in and out? Or is it more of a one on one chat with the OD regarding the profession in general? Or both?

Next thing I'd like to know is should this networking/shadowing I'll be doing last the entire summer? (Early June to late August)

Thanks so much everyone.

Daniel

 

[Eyes99]

Now that my spring semester is officially over and my summer (free time) is under way, I wanted to ask you all for some shadowing tips. I have many ODs in my area to shadow. When I say many, I mean MANY. From the Wal-Mart/Costco Optometric centers to dozens and dozens of private practices.

First thing I'd like to ask is just what exactly is the typical shadowing experience like? Do I HAVE to observe a typical week day of various patients coming in and out? Or is it more of a one on one chat with the OD regarding the profession in general? Or both?

Next thing I'd like to know is should this networking/shadowing I'll be doing last the entire summer? (Early June to late August)

Thanks so much everyone.

Daniel

Here's what admissions people want to know...do you understand what optometry is all about? Have you spent time seeing the various practice modes available? Do you know what the day to day practice of optometry is all about?

I would suggest observing ODs in several different settings. Some schools aren't too impressed if the only ODs you shadow are in retail settings. Most schools don't have specific requirements for shadowing, they just want you to know what you're getting into.

Shadowing is also a good way to get to know an OD well enough to ask for a letter of recommendation from the OD.

 

[dee39]

Sounds good. Thanks so much Doc!