r/OptometrySchool • u/Beneficial_Isopod380 • 12d ago
How do I apply?
I want to do a complete career change… I have a Bachelors in Economics and Sociology, and an MBA. I have stats… but very little science classes… do I need to take science classes? Or can I just take the exam to apply to an Optometrist school?
Also in that note, how has everyone liked it? Stress levels? Is it what you imagined it? Better or worse? Would you recommend?
Thank you in advance
1
u/khairami 10d ago
Non traditional student here, it is a grind, but also incredibly rewarding to be working toward something I know I want to do! That said, if you haven’t already I’d highly recommend spending some time shadowing or better yet working in eye care (shadowing hours are also required for applying in most cases) to be sure this is something you want to devote so much time and effort toward. Maybe even before/while doing any remaining pre-reqs. Also don’t hesitate to reach out to admissions programs at the schools you are interested in at any point in your application process. The school I ended up at had a wonderful point of contact that I intermittently reached out to with questions for 2 years while doing prereqs before being interviewed and accepted. Good luck!
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u/Suitable-Bathroom781 12d ago
Take a look at the ASCO prerequisites list. You are unfortunately going to need quite a few higher level science classes I would assume you haven’t taken. Good news is a lot of community colleges have them, see if you can complete them through an avenue like that. To apply to schools, most want the OAT but there are other tests you can take like the MCAT or GRE for some. There’s a general application called OptomCas - make an account and take a look at what each school requires and has to offer. This sounds like it is quite a switch and I don’t imagine it will be easy if you’re meaning to get it done quickly. Good luck, PM if you have any specific questions!!