Loo 1

Ryan Loo
Mr. Truitt
A.P Literature
August 20, 2015
Optometrists, also known as a doctor of optometry (ODs), are doctors who specialize in
eyesight. ODs maintain and examine disorders of the eye. They can prescribe eyeglasses and
contact lenses. ODs analyze the structure of the eyes to detect diseases such as cataracts,
glaucoma, and retinal detachment. They are trained to treat vision conditions such astigmatism,
nearsightedness, and farsightedness.
In order to become an Optometrist, one must first complete an undergrad degree. The
requirements vary; however, the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO)
recommends I should take the following: General Biology, General Chemistry, Trigonometry,
Organic Chemistry, Microbiology or Bacteriology, Calculus, Biochemistry, and Anatomy. Once
these undergraduate requirements are filled out, students will have to apply to an accredited
school of optometry. The exams consist of four tests: a Survey of the Natural Sciences, Reading
Comprehension, Physics and Quantitative Reasoning. Individuals have to complete the
Optometry College Admission Test (OAT) before being accepted into an accredited school of
optometry. There are only twenty-one optometry schools in the United States. According to the
ASCO, optometry programs generally accept students who have demonstrated strong academic
commitment, exhibit proficiency in the natural sciences, and who have the potential to excel in
deductive reasoning, interpersonal communication, and empathy. Upon the completion of the
program, I must get my optometrist license. I need to pass a written and clinical state board
examination. My license will have to be renewed every one to three years.

Loo 2
Optometrists are becoming a necessity in the health-care field. According to the Bureau
of Labor Statistics, employment of optometrists is supposed to grow twenty-four percent from
2012 to 2022. As people age, their vision tends to diminish. In addition, chronic diseases lead to
vision failure. This creates a demand for ODs. The national average salary for an Optometrist is
about $113,010. The average salary for an Optometrist in Atlanta is $117,046.
Optometry is becoming an important aspect of the medical world. By providing my
services, I would be able to help hundreds of patients improve their eyesight. Patients can
literally view the world in a new perception.

Loo 3
Work Cited
"Become an Optometrist - Careers - The College Board." Become an Optometrist - Careers - The
College Board. Web. 20 Aug. 2015
"Directories of Accredited Programs." Directories of Accredited Programs. Web. 20 Aug. 2015.
"GAcollege411 - Expand Your Opportunities." GAcollege411. Web. 20 Aug. 2015.
"Optometrists." U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Web. 20 Aug.
2015.
"Optometry Admission Test." Optometry Admission Test. Web. 20 Aug. 2015
.