What is optometry really like?

Hi, I’m currently studying a levels (yr 12) and also I will be applying for uni in a couple of months. I want to do optometry but I have heard so many people say that it’s all about sales. The reason I want to do optom is because I really like learning about the eyes so if it is really all about sales I don’t think I would enjoy it. I want a job which I would enjoy and also which pays well (40- 50 k). My other option would be to do medicine and become a dermatologist but I think with medicine I would have to study really hard. So if you guys had any advice and tips then that would be really helpful :smile:

Reply 1

Optom_12

OP

2

Thank you and any advice or tips on dermatology would be useful too regarding work load, pay etc.

Reply 2

Jamie1231

1

Original post by Optom_12

Hi, I’m currently studying a levels (yr 12) and also I will be applying for uni in a couple of months. I want to do optometry but I have heard so many people say that it’s all about sales. The reason I want to do optom is because I really like learning about the eyes so if it is really all about sales I don’t think I would enjoy it. I want a job which I would enjoy and also which pays well (40- 50 k). My other option would be to do medicine and become a dermatologist but I think with medicine I would have to study really hard. So if you guys had any advice and tips then that would be really helpful :smile:

Optoms have a lot of sales targets that need to be met but it all depends where you work.

Reply 3

Gregor99

9

Original post by Optom_12

Hi, I’m currently studying a levels (yr 12) and also I will be applying for uni in a couple of months. I want to do optometry but I have heard so many people say that it’s all about sales. The reason I want to do optom is because I really like learning about the eyes so if it is really all about sales I don’t think I would enjoy it. I want a job which I would enjoy and also which pays well (40- 50 k). My other option would be to do medicine and become a dermatologist but I think with medicine I would have to study really hard. So if you guys had any advice and tips then that would be really helpful :smile:

If you’re interested in medicine, Ophthalmology is a specialty option.
However, I would caution so say just because you like one area of medicine before starting. Peoples interests generally change a lot whilst at Med school. Might stay the same but I’m Just saying what happens to the majority of people in my experience.
That’s not a reason to not apply though. If you’re passionate about it go for it!

Reply 4

Optom_12

OP

2

Original post by Jamie1231

Optoms have a lot of sales targets that need to be met but it all depends where you work.

Thanks but I want to know if sales target is a big factor in working as an optom or not because if it is I don’t think I would like it as a career.

Reply 5

Optom_12

OP

2

Original post by Gregor99

If you’re interested in medicine, Ophthalmology is a specialty option.
However, I would caution so say just because you like one area of medicine before starting. Peoples interests generally change a lot whilst at Med school. Might stay the same but I’m Just saying what happens to the majority of people in my experience.
That’s not a reason to not apply though. If you’re passionate about it go for it!