I’m packing my bags, and preparing my taste buds for my first ever Philly Cheesesteak! This year’s Optometry’s Meeting is taking place where they say it’s always sunny, Philadelphia.
Optometry’s Meeting, to the experienced optometry student, is an annual convention filled with different optometry enthusiasts from across the nation. You can experience educational seminars, networking opportunities, endless raffle giveaways, and student oriented learning experiences all in one fun filled weekend. As a frequent OM attendee, I’m able to say that attending OM has benefited me tremendously as an optometry student and soon to be graduate.
Here are a few reasons why every optometry student should attend Optometry’s Meeting in Philadelphia:
1. There are usually hundreds of booths with eye care industry experts dying to tell you about what they do and how it can help you and your future practice. Most booths have giveaways and great raffles to all who stop by, so why not listen to what they have to say? You may win a free iPad and learn something at the same time! Make sure to download the Optometry’s Meeting App and get constant updates on raffles going on throughout the day!
2. The Varilux® Student Bowl! Imagine a Jeopardy style event where each school cheers on their chosen Student Bowl representative by being the LOUDEST and most SPIRITED! Your school, as an audience, can even win the Spirit Award. Prepare those vocal cords and represent your school. The best part is the student reception where drinks and food are provided FREE.
3. Seminars dedicated to student learning and activities help prepare you for post graduation. This year Luxottica Retail is sponsoring “What is your Practice Personality?” where optometry students who attend are able to gain entry into the Luxottica Live! after party.
4. The ability to come and hang out with the OptometryStudents.com Core Leadership team! This year OS.com will have a space located front and center along side the AOA booth, with a place to relax and even play some Nintendo Wii! Take a break in our lounge area and compete in a round of Mario Kart, and make sure to enter our social media contests, sign up for free giveaways, and ask about how you can become part of our team!
5. Free continuing education courses. As a student, you will be able to sit in on live talks geared towards trending and future advancements in optometry. Talk about having an advantage at an early time in your optometry career!
6. Networking, networking, networking! Optometry’s Meeting is the place to meet your future company, and potential coworkers. Make sure to introduce yourself to ODs from your hometown. OM provides badges that state your name and where you’re from so wear it at all times. You never know who will be looking to hire a local new grad.
7. When else would you be able to run up the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps singing “EYE of the Tiger” to yourself?
See you at Optometry’s Meeting in Philadelphia!
