How To Become an Optometrist in the United States | Ryan Reflects

[@RyanReflects]

Do you want to become an optometrist? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments below!

[@pinklambo7898]

i wanna be an optometrist but i’m worried it’s too difficult for me

[@nehacm9786]

Sir am an optometrist with one yr hospital exep and one yr optical experience now I am totally confused abt of my future...I want to become a opto in usa ...so wat i should for thet plz explain

[@Abrahsc1]

I recently passed my permit test but could not obtain my permit due to my vision. I didn't know how bad my vision was till I went to the CA dmv. Although it seemed like a pain, it turned out to be a life-changing visit to an optometrist at a hospital. The optometrist used really cool technology that for the first time appealed to me. My father is a dentist and the occupation did not attract me. But optometry really looks clean and cool. Thank you so much for the video! I'll be learning from all your content Dr. Ryan Corte!

[@greekxstitcher5379]

Since my son was 7 this is all he wants to do! I have had him take a career classes in HS had him read on other fields He is set on being an Optometrist ! Thank you for opening my eyes up to a wonderful career ❤

[@RyanReflects]

Of course! It’s a great profession for those looking to serve the eye health and vision care needs of others while also making a comfortable living.

[@doctorgilbertnacouzi3940]

Thoroughly detailed, thanks for Sharing Doctor Ryan. To me, the purpose of studying Optometry is to help people (3-90 yrs) see better. This is what you will do on a daily basis until you retire.

[@RyanReflects]

I agree that the biggest impact ODs have is helping people see their best. Thank you for sharing, Gilbert!

[@missmicah9218]

hii, im a junior in hs and this video was very helpful to get to know the process! ill be sure to watch your other videos as well.. becoming an optometrist sounds a bit challenging but I think I can do it, tysm!

[@alexanderculver2626]

Thank you for the great introductory video! I visited an optometrist my freshman year and was instantly fascinated by the testing and diagnostic methods. Starting study for the OAT now

[@RockSleeper]

I'm in my 30s and I'm considering going into optometry because I'm tired of eye doctors getting my prescription wrong and the whole system of getting decent eyewear is broken. I get an eye exam, then only have 30days to get a recheck, but if I order glasses the same day as my exam, it takes about 10-14 days to receive my glasses. That cuts 2 weeks out of a typical optometrist's 30 day policy, AND they say it could take 1-3 weeks for your eyes to adjust to your new glasses. So what do I do when eye insurance only covers one exam a year? I have to pay for a whole new exam without insurance benefits, and on top of that if the glasses were made incorrectly, the seller only has about 30 days to guarantee the glasses. So you get stuck with a pair of glasses you can't use, your insurance used up for the year, and everything else is out of pocket if they haven't gotten everything right in that first month. I don't want to have to change careers just to get a pair of decent glasses. Do you have any recommendations on how to find a solid optometrist and eyeglass shop? I'm shopping for phoropters and trial frames/lenses to just do it myself because of how ridiculous this industry seems to be.

[@RyanReflects]

I’m sorry you’re having to go through this. Personally, I would find a practice that understands your circumstances and would make an exception to the rule for remakes on your glasses. They’re out there and typically small, private practices.

[@chasesummers2689]

Dr. Ryan, i’m currently a junior in high school and am heavily considering optometry. Between the pay, work life balance, and my interest in the field it seems like an awesome career, however I live in a smaller city in the midwest. How important is location when it comes to getting a job and being successful in this career?

[@RyanReflects]

Location is very important. However, you can be successful anywhere. Picking a location with an unmet need is simply an added bonus. I’d look at the area you’re from and evaluate how many optometrists practice there. The general rule of thumb was 1 OD for every 10,000 people. But that doesn’t mean there still isn’t opportunity if there already is.

[@celibatecholo]

Same I’m a junior in hs but what college classes have you took? Bc Im not sure which AP classes should I take for going into optometry and will my college accept the credit how do I find all of this out?

[@RyanReflects]

I’d knock out general education credits so you can get into the pre optometry specific courses in college

[@celibatecholo]

@@RyanReflects thanks for the reply but if I want scholarships and to be noticed by universities shouldn’t I go for AP classes my junior and senior yr?

[@RyanReflects]

AP English, AP Calculus, and AP Economics are all great to take in high school and get out of the way

[@rawaawaa9840]

I just finished my sophomore year in high school, and I'd like to know what courses I need to take in my next 2 years of highschool to succeed in this field. According to the site. It looks like you need biochemistry, calculus, anatomy, psychology, and physiology etc etc, but do I really need to do all of that in high school?

[@RyanReflects]

I would focus on courses that make you a well rounded individual and allow you to get into the college or university of your choice.

[@christhetrend]

I am 35 undergrad is in Finance. My kids are a little older now and I am thinking of making that switch. Quitting my job and pursuing what I can’t seem to stop thinking about-Being an Optometrist! Is it too late? I mean can I really do this!! 😅

[@RyanReflects]

Nope. It’s not too late at all. I had a classmate graduate in her early 40s. I ran into her a few weeks ago and she’s still very happy with her decision!

[@ratipatel3265]

What an Optrometrist should study to become an Opthomologist? Can i continue my job as an Optometrist while studying for Opthomologist? Please tell me

[@solutionists344]

I am currently a student pursueing to become and optometric technician...what will be your advice for me on my personal hygiene to get on this career

[@RyanReflects]

I’m not sure I understand what you’re asking

[@ericsung6997]

Dr. Ryan I’m a student in Taiwan(going to study optometry this year) if I want to be a optometrist in United States, should I finish study four years in Taiwan or apply for the college in United States?

[@RyanReflects]

Watch this. How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@cmj5013]

Soo good information. Thank you soo much for the video

[@RyanReflects]

You’re very welcome!

[@DG-cl3gs]

How did you choose between optometry and opthalmology?

[@RyanReflects]

I had no interest in performing surgery

[@deaddogcomedy]

@@RyanReflectsthank you

[@Cyanta2024]

Hi Dr. Ryan, if it isn’t too personal may I know how old you were when you became an optometrist?

[@RyanReflects]

25 years old.

[@otiebrown9999]

4 years college. 4 years OD school. Expense is great. I chose Electrical Engineering.

[@RyanReflects]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@annacayton8193]

Please explain what kind of application and salary for electrical engineering?

[@ireseedithoguguah3705]

Great content doc.

[@RyanReflects]

Thank you!

[@guidestudents3617]

Master in Optometry after Bachelor in Optometry from overseas can work in United States if can then what is the process ?

[@RyanReflects]

Unfortunately, out of the country optometry degrees do no transfer to the United States. The good news is, a few schools have programs for international optometrists to expedite their US doctor of optometry degree. However, you’d still have to pass all 3 parts of NBEO.

[@amlanchakma4291]

Greeting Dr. Ryan Corte! I hope you are well. Can an optometrist prescribes eye drops viz Moxifloxacin, Lotepred, and Olopatadine eye drops etc. in the United States of America? I am from India.

[@RyanReflects]

Yes

[@Makingpancakez]

Opinion on going to a trade school for an optical tech diploma

[@RyanReflects]

Tons of job opportunities. Hours and pay vary. I’d get a job at an optical first to learn more about if you enjoy the job.

[@ambiadhikari5914]

Hi. I have done my Bachelor of Optometry from India. I am planning to join MSc Optometry in Canada. Do I still have to do OAT for joining Masters in Optometry in Canada or US?

[@chloebee2032]

to practice in Canada you need to do a 4 year doctor of optometry (O.D.) program, not a masters. yes you need to take the OAT

[@RyanReflects]

Watch this. How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@ahminaarshad5719]

Hi, do you know much about the process of switching from practicing optometry in the UK as a qualified optometrist to moving to the US?

[@bieryguevara7076]

Dr.Ryan Corte, I am currently a sophomore in high school entering junior, and I would like to know what classes you recommend I should take to prepare myself.

[@RyanReflects]

Hi Biery - congratulations on exploring career opportunities as a high schooler! Science, physics, communication, and business classes are all great to take in high school, especially if they're AP.

[@bieryguevara7076]

@@RyanReflects Thanks for letting me know. Also as soon as you start working as an optometrist, is the pay low and as time passes by it increases. Also does the amount of time you spend preparing yourself also affect the pay and the higher chance you have of having a more succesfull career.

[@RyanReflects]

Pay varies by location, modality, and ownership status. Preparation is always key, however, it’ll likely take a few jobs for you to figure out what you like and don’t like.

[@bieryguevara7076]

@@RyanReflects Hey Ryan,I am coming back to this conversation we had to ask you a couple of questions. So I've been wondering which majors i should take in college that will cover the prerequisites for most optometry schools, but also provide a high chance of employment with that specific degree in case of an time gap after completing my degree. Do you any majors that can provide this?

[@nehemiahmarcus7104]

Please how long is optometry in USA and what degree is given. Because in my school ( in Nigeria) it's 6years and will be given an OD degree.

[@RyanReflects]

3-4 undergrad and 3-4 optometry school

[@tylerwengrzynek6819]

Good afternoon! I've been watching several different videos from multiple content creators, which has sort of been growing my interest in the field. I've decided that I wanted to commit to the schooling and hopefully come out with my O.D. My predicament is that I'm currently enlisted in the ANG and I'm working 12 hour shifts on base (full time) in an area that disallows technology with cameras and wifi connectivity. From your experience thus far, do you think online schooling would be a good idea? I've looked into online schools with the course prerequisites I need for the optometry school I've chosen but am still trying to tell myself it will be worth going through with. Of course, there are still unspoken variables at play but as far as the time I have outside my job and less access to the sources I may need. In short, I guess my question is, comparatively to in person schooling for undergrad/graduate courses, would online schooling be worth the effort?

[@RyanReflects]

Online schooling for some of the pre requisites could make sense. However, you’ll need to have in person schooling that incorporates the necessary labs required for optometry school admissions

[@nayhimamey7358]

I went to ask you one question , i am optometrist from norway but optometry in Europe is 3 years study . Can you make one video a but how we can practice optometry in USAif some body needs to move from Europe to U.S. Or how to get masters apportunity in U.S.A for europian optometrist.

[@RyanReflects]

It’s very school dependent. Contact the schools that have a bridge program for more details that are more specific to your situation

[@Gideon48]

Very Good content Doc. ❤ I'm a practicing Optometrist in Nigeria.. How can I get to practice in the United States please?

[@RyanReflects]

Thank you! Sure. Watch this How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@mariannecanen955]

Hallo Doc Ryan, I am from the Philippines. I really want to become an Optometrist. It is my ambition. I'd like to take care of people's vision. May I ask you for advice?

[@RyanReflects]

Yes. Absolutely. Fire away!

[@oluwatobilobaakinnibinu5582]

Hi Dr Ryan, I'm an optometrist and will love to relocate to US i contacted SUNY college of optometry and they keep using the word 'if' in their explanations. Like they can decide to hold the interview or even cancel the whole stuff after the interview. Pls what is the success rate of this standardized program from your experience. Thanks

[@RyanReflects]

That is something that is program specific. Honestly, this is news to me. I recommend contacting each program individually. Thank you for sharing.

[@paulbrungardt9823]

1981 Graduate in optometry here.---In 1981, there were 10 optometry schools in USA. ( $ 28,000 Student Debt). Optometry was not over populated. Foreign optometrists could not practice in USA--Life for ODs was good----I-n 2023--24 optometry schools, Night school optometry degrees. ( $ 400,000) student debt--Mail order contacts & mail order inferior eyeglass lenses; patients return and want free recheck on $ 29 poor quality, mail order eyeglasses. Liability (Mal-practice) insurance goes up every year. Frivolous Mal practice lawsuits hitting

[@RyanReflects]

Things have changed but so has the profession.

[@Tyler-gz7wd]

My only worry is that it seems that going to med school would make so much more money. Thoughts on this?

[@RyanReflects]

You can make money in any career path. If you’re only in it for the money, optometry is probably not the best profession to consider.

[@tabomwita4804]

Am actually doing my degree in optometry 2 year currently, are their any opportunities to find work in the USA

[@RyanReflects]

How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@parthparmar1302]

Hyy sir how are you I am Parth from india Current I am studying in optometrist in f.y. I want to practice in USA otherwise us so please me suggest next guidelines . What will you suggest me ?

[@RyanReflects]

Watch this. How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@anasshareef3931]

Hello Dr.Ryan, is it possible to apply for MS in vision science after medical school from overseas and then start practising optometry in usa ?

[@RyanReflects]

Thanks for reaching out. Follow the steps in this video to learn more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@shalimakp4991]

Hy Ryan I have done BSc Optometry from India. Its 3 + 1 year course. And I want to study OD in optometry from USA. Is it possible?

[@RyanReflects]

Watch this. How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@kartikkhatri3345]

Hey Dr.Ryan I am from India ..and doing my bachelors in optometry there....can i'll able to do doctorate in optometry(OD) from US...or get any job after my graduation in optometry....please tell me the way to get into this

[@RyanReflects]

Hi Kartik. Congratulations! Here is a video to help you do so. How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@madhuri...8979]

I am from India.. I want to know the entrance exams to go to US..... hw many exams are there to enter to states

[@RyanReflects]

Check out this video for more information How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@tee7evennn152]

How long is optometry school

[@RyanReflects]

Traditional, 4 years. However, there are now a few schools with a 3 year accelerated program.

[@iiam.tasiaa1228]

@@RyanReflectsdo you know the schools that may be 3 years ?

[@drfavoureze2112]

Hello Dr, after passing the 3 board exams and abridging program. What's the guarantee on getting a license? Are there any issues with that

[@RyanReflects]

You’ll then need a license in the state you want to practice in. Some are easier than others to obtain.

[@drfavoureze2112]

@Ryan Reflects by Dr. Ryan Corte What states are easier and why are the others difficult? What's the determining factor?

[@cmj5013]

Hi Doctor I have a Question, for optometrist that study in other part of the world how can comvalidate their studies in optometry in the U.S for work?. I have this question. Thanks for your help Doctor.

[@RyanReflects]

This is a great question and one I’m going to do a follow up video on soon!

[@samimhossain6269]

I'm from india, I'm also an optometrist, can apply for optometrist job in usa?

[@RyanReflects]

Unfortunately, no. Watch this How Does an International Optometrist Practice in the USA? | Optometry Advanced Standing Programs kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5rUlpeCpNiLras

[@ratipatel3265]

How an Optometrist become Opthomologist?

[@Lovely-lg7fn]

Yea I don’t got time for all that 😭

[@RyanReflects]

It’s definitely a process you have to be committed to!

[@EmpireProd]

Switched from optometry to IT and regret it

[@RyanReflects]

Why so?

[@EmpireProd]

@@RyanReflects in IT you don’t make as much and you have to start as technician