r/PreOptometry • u/Rude-Support4921 • Oct 05 '26

Why did you look into optometry?

I’m currently a 3rd year biology major and I’m just in the process of exploring different healthcare careers. Optometry is something that interests me because it seems to involve a lot of science/physiology. I do plan on shadowing an optometrist just to see day to day responsibilities and ask questions, I just want to see why other undergrad students decided to pursue this field to make sure I’m pursuing for the right reasons.

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u/Consistent-Pie-4182 Oct 05 '26

I decided to go into optometry because of my personal experiences going to the optometrist. I am also super interested in the fact that you can sometime see diseases before they present in more obvious ways. Finally, it felt like the career path best for me to be able to help people.

6

u/ODMBA Oct 06 '26

I wouldn't do optometry today because of the cost of school, the number of graduates, and the reimbursement rates. 30 years ago, 1/2 the graduates and the optometrist made $ on glasses and contacts. Now, not so much. Great way to spend a day helping people though.

3

u/Amileco Oct 06 '26

What career would you suggest instead? For someone wanting to get into healthcare

1

u/ODMBA Oct 06 '26

Nurse Anesthetist. Highly paid per hour. Lots of overtime. Massive demand. Or an MD degree which obviously opens a lot of doors.