Rising Interest in Optometry: A Student’s Journey and Impactful Discoveries

Amid a growing interest in optometry, a student’s journey and impactful discoveries are shedding light on the profession. Samya Haque, a pre-registration optometrist and winner of CooperVision‘s Optistudent competition, recently shared her career inspiration and aspirations.

From a chance conversation with an optometrist in a coffee shop, Haque found her calling and embarked on a path that led her to shadowing professionals in various settings, including Optical Express and Newmedica.

Throughout her journey, Haque learned the importance of collaboration in patient care, engaging with orthoptists at a children’s hospital and exploring the extensive field of optometry.

Looking ahead, Haque aims to explore special effect and cosmetic contact lenses, particularly in the realm of pop culture and media, showcasing the diverse opportunities within the field.

One key lesson Haque highlighted is the importance of embracing challenges and learning from setbacks, acknowledging that not every day will be perfect but each experience is a valuable learning opportunity.

Overcoming the demands of pre-reg, Haque emphasized the significance of establishing a supportive network and taking time to prioritize self-care amidst the rigors of study and work.

Participating in the OptiStudent competition presented Haque with a platform to delve into research on the impact of heat and massage on meibomian glands in contact lens wearers, culminating in a rewarding win and a newfound appreciation for optometric research.

Reflecting on her journey, Haque expressed gratitude for the recognition and validation of her career choice, underscoring the significance of pursuing one’s passions and making meaningful contributions to the field.

Noteworthy figures in Haque’s story include Dr. Debarun Dutta, lecturer at Aston University, alongside fellow OptiStudent winners Mohammed Fardin and industry professionals like Tom Elliott and Professor James Wolffsohn.