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University of Sheffield Orthoptics Student- Ask me anything!

Hey everyone I'm Alisha, a current 1st year student in Orthoptics at the University of Sheffield and a Student Ambassador for the medical school. I have learnt so much this past year from studying Orthoptics and being part of the University, both about the course and the city, and I would love to able to answer any questions you may have. Orthoptics is a niche health care course with Sheffield being 1 out of only 3 Universities in the UK to offer the course. The course focuses on eye disorders including their diagnosis and treatment and we cover a range of modules incorporating skills in science and communication. Sheffield is a great place to experience as a student with so much to do, but as a first year I understand how it feels to leave home for the first time and move to a new city so I can help talk through any concerns or worries. I'm going into my second year as the social secretary for the Orthoptics committee as I enjoy being able to encourage everyone to be involved in activities and one of my main roles is integrating the new 1st years into the course. I have lived in student halls for my first year at Uni (in Ranmoor) so if you have any specific questions about accommodation at the Uni I am also able to answer. I am online every Wednesday to answer your questions. If you want a quicker response you can find me on Unibuddy (UCAS website> Undergraduate> Chat to Students> Alisha).

Feel free to message me your questions and I look forward to speaking with you!:smile:

Alisha
1st Year
BMedSci Orthoptics

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Hi Alisha, I’m just wondering if you have any advice for orthoptics personal statement?
Original post by 2k19GCSES
Hi Alisha, I’m just wondering if you have any advice for orthoptics personal statement?

Hi,

For an Orthoptics personal statement (and the same goes for most healthcare related course) I would really try to focus on the skills and experience you have and how that would make you a good Orthoptist or aid towards your practice as an Orthoptist. The admissions tutors don't expect you to have specific work experience in an eye clinic but anything that is relevant is a good addition. For example I did some work experience in a Nursery and this was helpful to show how I learnt to work with young children, get their attention and focus which is really key in clinic as you work with majority young children. Another tip I would give is maybe focus on a specific aspect of the course you are particularly interested in and show some extra reading or research/activities you have done to show your interest. This will show to admission tutors you've done your research on the course and are passionate about Orthoptics. I think another straight forward bit to add is why do you want to study the course? Do you find it rewarding/ interesting? Including aspects of working for the NHS in the future if this is something you are interested in is also a good idea.

Hope this helps you out , feel free to ask anymore questions!

Alisha
1st Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Original post by University of Sheffield Students
Hey everyone I'm Alisha, a current 1st year student in Orthoptics at the University of Sheffield and a Student Ambassador for the medical school. I have learnt so much this past year from studying Orthoptics and being part of the University, both about the course and the city, and I would love to able to answer any questions you may have. Orthoptics is a niche health care course with Sheffield being 1 out of only 3 Universities in the UK to offer the course. The course focuses on eye disorders including their diagnosis and treatment and we cover a range of modules incorporating skills in science and communication. Sheffield is a great place to experience as a student with so much to do, but as a first year I understand how it feels to leave home for the first time and move to a new city so I can help talk through any concerns or worries. I'm going into my second year as the social secretary for the Orthoptics committee as I enjoy being able to encourage everyone to be involved in activities and one of my main roles is integrating the new 1st years into the course. I have lived in student halls for my first year at Uni (in Ranmoor) so if you have any specific questions about accommodation at the Uni I am also able to answer. I am online every Wednesday to answer your questions. If you want a quicker response you can find me on Unibuddy (UCAS website> Undergraduate> Chat to Students> Alisha).

Feel free to message me your questions and I look forward to speaking with you!:smile:

Alisha
1st Year
BMedSci Orthoptics


Posting on behalf of someone else that I barely know but wonder if there's any advice/ views on Sheffield rejecting someone who had firmed them who missed their offer by one grade based on a bizarre set of assigned grades. You may say fair enough, maybe Sheffield haven't seen the news & maybe they didn't get the memo about leniency...But to then say its OK, you can do the foundation year instead, pay a huge amount extra in fees, living costs & lost earnings, or go through the stress on self, school & system of appealing. Is this right? Seriously? Is Sheffield looking to profiteer promoting foundation year route to a stressed out , vulnerable 18 year olde. Are they looking to increase the course size around the student cap as appeal students don't count in the numbers? Disgusted! Suggest someone has a word with the admissions teams before I publish!
Original post by Anonymous
Posting on behalf of someone else that I barely know but wonder if there's any advice/ views on Sheffield rejecting someone who had firmed them who missed their offer by one grade based on a bizarre set of assigned grades. You may say fair enough, maybe Sheffield haven't seen the news & maybe they didn't get the memo about leniency...But to then say its OK, you can do the foundation year instead, pay a huge amount extra in fees, living costs & lost earnings, or go through the stress on self, school & system of appealing. Is this right? Seriously? Is Sheffield looking to profiteer promoting foundation year route to a stressed out , vulnerable 18 year olde. Are they looking to increase the course size around the student cap as appeal students don't count in the numbers? Disgusted! Suggest someone has a word with the admissions teams before I publish!

Just realised this is orthoptics, can you pass on to your peers in biological science areas for comment please, as I would seriously appreciate a response. Thanks
Original post by Anonymous
Posting on behalf of someone else that I barely know but wonder if there's any advice/ views on Sheffield rejecting someone who had firmed them who missed their offer by one grade based on a bizarre set of assigned grades. You may say fair enough, maybe Sheffield haven't seen the news & maybe they didn't get the memo about leniency...But to then say its OK, you can do the foundation year instead, pay a huge amount extra in fees, living costs & lost earnings, or go through the stress on self, school & system of appealing. Is this right? Seriously? Is Sheffield looking to profiteer promoting foundation year route to a stressed out , vulnerable 18 year olde. Are they looking to increase the course size around the student cap as appeal students don't count in the numbers? Disgusted! Suggest someone has a word with the admissions teams before I publish!


Original post by Anonymous
Just realised this is orthoptics, can you pass on to your peers in biological science areas for comment please, as I would seriously appreciate a response. Thanks

Hi!

I am really sorry to hear about this, this years results have been so unpredictable and I understand how stressful this would have been for your friend. These types of courses do tend to be rather competitive so this may be why your friend unfortunately wasn't accepted onto the course. Since you have posted this I understand that the government has made changes to the grading system for this year now and students will get their original predicted grades. Has this managed to solve this problem for them? Which course in particular have they applied for as it my be worth contacting the admissions team to check with them and this would also be the best place to get them to comment on this matter too, I cannot speak for them as I am not a member of staff for the University or a member of the biological sciences faculty. I have put a link here: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/contact to the Biosciences contact information. Let me know if there is anything else I can help with and I wish your friend the best of luck.

Alisha
2nd Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Original post by Anonymous
Posting on behalf of someone else that I barely know but wonder if there's any advice/ views on Sheffield rejecting someone who had firmed them who missed their offer by one grade based on a bizarre set of assigned grades. You may say fair enough, maybe Sheffield haven't seen the news & maybe they didn't get the memo about leniency...But to then say its OK, you can do the foundation year instead, pay a huge amount extra in fees, living costs & lost earnings, or go through the stress on self, school & system of appealing. Is this right? Seriously? Is Sheffield looking to profiteer promoting foundation year route to a stressed out , vulnerable 18 year olde. Are they looking to increase the course size around the student cap as appeal students don't count in the numbers? Disgusted! Suggest someone has a word with the admissions teams before I publish!

Hi!

I am a student from the Biological Sciences faculty. I am so sorry to hear about this, I know how unfair the system has been this year and how many students have unfortunately found themselves in such situations.
As Alisha mentioned, has the decision to use teachers' original predicted grades helped your friend's situation?
I am aware that some departments give out more offers than places, as they expect that not everyone will meet the entry requirements. Which course are they interested in? Some departments are more lenient with grades depending on the level of competition.
With the decision to now use teachers' predictions, places may now become available.
I would definitely advise you to contact the admissions team for further advice: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/biosciences/contact
If the course is on clearing, it may be worth calling the clearing helpline also. I know someone who also missed out on grades, but was somehow given a place through clearing for the same course.
Another alternative could be to apply for a different Bioscience course, there is some leniency to swap Bioscience courses after first year at Sheffield, as most of the Bioscience courses cover the same content in first year. Of course, this is not guaranteed but may be another option.

I really hope it all works out for your friend, please let me know if there is anything else I can do.

- Soumya
Biomedical Science Graduate, The University of Sheffield
(edited 4 years ago)
Reply 7
Hi Alisha,

What’s studying Orthoptics like? Is it difficult? What would you say it’s mostly based on, like maths and biology or a bit of physics too?
Also, due to Covid I won’t be able to do any shadowing, do you think this will affect my application?

Thanks
hi, just wanted to ask how many muslims would you say there are in the university? As a female Muslim I am worried that there won't be many like me to relate with. Also, is it possible to have shared accommodation with females only? I would really appreciate a response! thanks!
Original post by University of Sheffield Students
Hey everyone I'm Alisha, a current 1st year student in Orthoptics at the University of Sheffield and a Student Ambassador for the medical school. I have learnt so much this past year from studying Orthoptics and being part of the University, both about the course and the city, and I would love to able to answer any questions you may have. Orthoptics is a niche health care course with Sheffield being 1 out of only 3 Universities in the UK to offer the course. The course focuses on eye disorders including their diagnosis and treatment and we cover a range of modules incorporating skills in science and communication. Sheffield is a great place to experience as a student with so much to do, but as a first year I understand how it feels to leave home for the first time and move to a new city so I can help talk through any concerns or worries. I'm going into my second year as the social secretary for the Orthoptics committee as I enjoy being able to encourage everyone to be involved in activities and one of my main roles is integrating the new 1st years into the course. I have lived in student halls for my first year at Uni (in Ranmoor) so if you have any specific questions about accommodation at the Uni I am also able to answer. I am online every Wednesday to answer your questions. If you want a quicker response you can find me on Unibuddy (UCAS website> Undergraduate> Chat to Students> Alisha).

Feel free to message me your questions and I look forward to speaking with you!:smile:

Alisha
1st Year
BMedSci Orthoptics

hi, just wanted to ask how many muslims would you say there are in the university? As a female Muslim I am worried that there won't be many like me to relate with. Also, is it possible to have shared accommodation with females only? I would really appreciate a response! thanks!
Hi Alisha,

What’s studying Orthoptics like? Is it difficult? What would you say it’s mostly based on, like maths and biology or a bit of physics too?
Also, due to Covid I won’t be able to do any shadowing, do you think this will affect my application?

Thanks

Hi M.FA!

I have just replied to your post on another Orthoptics thread here : https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=6588018&p=90676846#post90676846. I personally find the course very manageable, coming from A levels I was really worried about the step up to Uni work but I have found A levels have really prepared me for the course especially if you have studied a science A level this really helps. There is a lot of Biology in the course and I would say also quite a bit of Physics, the Optics module is very physics based and covers a lot of topics from the A level physics just with extra and more in depth detail. The admissions tutors completely understand the difficulties faced to applicants this year due to Covid and it wouldn't put you at a disadvantage for being unable to shadow. I didn't have any work experience with an Orthoptist when I applied, they are more interested in your passion for the course and why you want to be an Orthoptist:smile: As always feel free to ask anymore questions!

Alisha
2nd Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Original post by a.h.anonymous
hi, just wanted to ask how many muslims would you say there are in the university? As a female Muslim I am worried that there won't be many like me to relate with. Also, is it possible to have shared accommodation with females only? I would really appreciate a response! thanks!

Hi a.h.anonymous!

Both Sheffield and the University are very culturally diverse! The university and city has a high proportion of Muslims as well as many other ethnic groups, so I wouldn't be worried as you will definitely be able to find people to relate with :smile: When I applied through the University accommodation portal I do remember seeing flats as female only but I cannot remember how many. I know friends that were in female only flats but I think it happened more by coincidence. When applying through the portal you can write a little bio about yourself so you could mention in there you are looking for a female only flat? I would also recommend if you are very certain on wanting a female only flat contacting the accommodation office to make sure you do get it, as they may be able to arrange this for you with more certainty. You can find the contact details for if and when you need them: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation. Hope this helps you out and if you have anymore questions feel free to ask them!

Alisha
2nd Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Reply 12
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?p=90671704&highlight=muslim%20female

Hello, is there anyone here interested in taking over this wonderful house at 250 per month (not include bills). It has 5 room and each furnished with double bed and study desk, shared kitchen and 2 bathroom.
It is especially for female muslims according to the landlord.

message me if interested!
(edited 4 years ago)
Original post by University of Sheffield Students
Hey everyone I'm Alisha, a current 1st year student in Orthoptics at the University of Sheffield and a Student Ambassador for the medical school. I have learnt so much this past year from studying Orthoptics and being part of the University, both about the course and the city, and I would love to able to answer any questions you may have. Orthoptics is a niche health care course with Sheffield being 1 out of only 3 Universities in the UK to offer the course. The course focuses on eye disorders including their diagnosis and treatment and we cover a range of modules incorporating skills in science and communication. Sheffield is a great place to experience as a student with so much to do, but as a first year I understand how it feels to leave home for the first time and move to a new city so I can help talk through any concerns or worries. I'm going into my second year as the social secretary for the Orthoptics committee as I enjoy being able to encourage everyone to be involved in activities and one of my main roles is integrating the new 1st years into the course. I have lived in student halls for my first year at Uni (in Ranmoor) so if you have any specific questions about accommodation at the Uni I am also able to answer. I am online every Wednesday to answer your questions. If you want a quicker response you can find me on Unibuddy (UCAS website> Undergraduate> Chat to Students> Alisha).

Feel free to message me your questions and I look forward to speaking with you!:smile:

Alisha
1st Year
BMedSci Orthoptics

Hi!

Just to update my thread and let everyone know I will no longer be available on the Unibuddy platform from the 14th of September! Any messages you have please post on this thread or message 'University of Sheffield Students' privately if prefered!

Alisha
2nd Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Original post by University of Sheffield Students
Hey everyone I'm Alisha, a current 1st year student in Orthoptics at the University of Sheffield and a Student Ambassador for the medical school. I have learnt so much this past year from studying Orthoptics and being part of the University, both about the course and the city, and I would love to able to answer any questions you may have. Orthoptics is a niche health care course with Sheffield being 1 out of only 3 Universities in the UK to offer the course. The course focuses on eye disorders including their diagnosis and treatment and we cover a range of modules incorporating skills in science and communication. Sheffield is a great place to experience as a student with so much to do, but as a first year I understand how it feels to leave home for the first time and move to a new city so I can help talk through any concerns or worries. I'm going into my second year as the social secretary for the Orthoptics committee as I enjoy being able to encourage everyone to be involved in activities and one of my main roles is integrating the new 1st years into the course. I have lived in student halls for my first year at Uni (in Ranmoor) so if you have any specific questions about accommodation at the Uni I am also able to answer. I am online every Wednesday to answer your questions. If you want a quicker response you can find me on Unibuddy (UCAS website> Undergraduate> Chat to Students> Alisha).

Feel free to message me your questions and I look forward to speaking with you!:smile:

Alisha
1st Year
BMedSci Orthoptics

Hi everyone!

I have just started my 2nd year of Orthoptics last week! It feels really strange to be back at uni and studying after so long off but I am really enjoying it. The content difficulty has gone up this year and I think I will find it more challenging but the topics are really interesting! I was worried about starting back with online learning but so far its been good and I am engaging in the lectures and completing my work. I was worried mainly about my productivity being inside studying all day but I have found its made me more proactive to make sure I get out for walks and get my work done in specific time slots! Next week I am starting face to face clinical skills lectures again which I am really looking forward too as this was the main aspect of uni I really missed from covid/online lecturing. Let me know if you have any questions:smile:

Alisha
2nd Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Is it risky only applying to 2 unis for orthoptics? my school won’t let me apply for more than 1 course unfortunately. my predicted grades are ABB, i have nursery work experience, i have attended an orthoptics taster session, do i have a good chance?
Original post by pkk0304
Is it risky only applying to 2 unis for orthoptics? my school won’t let me apply for more than 1 course unfortunately. my predicted grades are ABB, i have nursery work experience, i have attended an orthoptics taster session, do i have a good chance?

Hi pkk0304,

It is definetely a risky choice as UCAS always recommends appplying to 5 unis, that being said there are only 3 uni's available for Orthoptics and if you aren't interested in other similar courses like Optometry I don't see any point in applying to a course if you aren't going to study it ! Your grades are good and the work experience is great bonus so you should look good on paper to the admissions team. I cannot really say if you would have a 'good chance' but you definetly sound prepared and like you have a good application behind you. Orthoptics is a really niche course and not that many people are aware of it but there are also very few places on the course compared to other courses. I would recommend always having a plan B in mind , just incase, I am very hopeful all will work in your favour but maybe just consider what your plan is if you weren't to get in. Best of luck with your application and feel free to ask me anymore questions :smile:

Alisha
2nd Year
BMedSci Orthoptics
Original post by Dkwhattowrite
How many people are on the orthoptic course roughly and do you think I will be at an disadvantage because I studied the Applied Science Btec L3 instead of a Levels

i think around 40
Original post by Dkwhattowrite
How many people are on the orthoptic course roughly and do you think I will be at an disadvantage because I studied the Applied Science Btec L3 instead of a Levels

Hi!

In my year of Orthoptics there are 37 of us, its a small course and it doesn't really get higher than 45 in a year just so that there are enough clinical practice facilities for all students. Just looking at the entry requirements for the Extended level 3 btec diploma in Applied Science the entry requirements are DDD for Orthoptics, this will be considered equally to the BBB requirements of A levels. As long as you have the predicted grades that are suitable and a good personal statement you won't be at a disadvantage! Hope this helps you out if you have anymore questions feel free to ask:smile:

I've linked here the information on Orthoptics entry requirements.

Alisha
2nd Year
Orthoptics BMedSci
Hi :smile:
What is the difference between optometry and orthoptics ? Can one apply to both on UCAS using 1 personal statement ?

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