Expert: Janet Carter - 8/24/2006

Question
Hi again!

Thanks for your reply. And yes, you are right, I don't live in the US. I live a little north in Canada. And I do know that we do have at least 2 optometry schools but I don't know much else. But I guess I'll keep researching. Thanks anyways.
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Followup To

Question -
Hi!

My name's Meg and I am going into my final year of high school. And quite frankly, I still have no idea what I would like to do. I've toyed with the ideas of archaeology, astronomy, engineering, teaching and even medicine and I'm still rather unsure. So I'm just doing some research and I was hoping you could help me. I just have a few questions.

> Is this profession in high demand?
> Is it a difficult field to get into?
> Is it similar to being a doctor (just like a family doctor) at all?
> I didn't take biology in my last years of high school (but I did take chemistry), would that pose a problem getting into university?
> Is there any little quirks or details about this profession that someone just starting out in it might want to know?

If you could answer those that would be great. Thanks so much :)

*Meg

Answer -
Well, the demand for optometry (my profession:  I assume that's what you're talking about?) is high, as the population ages and becomes more technology-dependent.  Yes, it IS being a doctor...not sure how to answer that question.  Remember, you'll have to go through university and THEN go to optometry school, so what you take in high school doesn't matter, only what you take in University.  Are you outside of the US by any chance?  Because if you are, the admissions are very different, and in some countries optometry doesn't even EXIST as an independent profession from medicine, so in that case I can't help you.  I think you may be out of the US, btw, because you mentioned "getting into university."  US residents almost ALWAYS say "getting into AN university."  I can only answer questions about the profession as it applies to the US...sorry.

Answer
There are two optometry schools in Canada, one on Ontario and one in Montreal.  You might try googling "Canadian Optometry Schools" for more information.  I think they also require university before admission.  You might also try the Canadian Association of Optometrists.  They could give you a lot more information regarding admissions in your country.  Good luck!