Attending any professional meeting as an optometry student provides an exciting opportunity to network, learn about the latest advancements and gain insights from seasoned practitioners. For a complete overview, visit EyeLearn for the course Insightful Eyes: Navigating Optometry’s Meeting® as a Professional.
Whether you have already attended past events or it is your first event, here are some key tips for navigating optometry meetings effectively and professionally.
1. Prepare Beforehand
- Familiarize yourself with the schedule. Highlight sessions, workshops and presentations that align with your interests and career goals. Many conferences have dedicated apps, so be sure to download them beforehand.
- Determine what you want to achieve. Are you looking to learn about specific clinical practices, explore new technologies or make professional connections? Setting clear objectives will help you focus your time and energy.
2. Professional Attire and Etiquette
- Opt for business or business-casual attire. First impressions matter, and presenting yourself professionally shows that you take the event—and your future career—seriously.
- Be courteous and respectful in all interactions. Be on time. Remember to introduce yourself with your full name and school, listen actively and thank doctors and exhibitors for their time and insights.
3. Networking Strategies
- Don’t be a passive attendee. Ask questions during Q&A sessions, participate in discussions, and visit booths at the exhibition hall.
- Approach networking with the intention of building lasting professional relationships, not just collecting business cards. Follow up with contacts you make after the event to reinforce these connections.
4. Maximize Learning Opportunities
- Attend diverse sessions to gain a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills.
5. Take Advantage of Volunteer Opportunities
- If the event offers volunteer roles, consider participating. This can provide behind-the-scenes insights and additional networking opportunities. Some events may even have paid opportunities, such as working as a CE monitor, and these are scheduled not to conflict with any student events.
So, go out there, enjoy the events, make lasting connections and don’t forget to tag @optometrystudents on social media—your go-to platform for support and inspiration as you embark on your journey to becoming an optometrist!
To learn more about Optometry’s Meeting before you go, visit EyeLearn for the guide Insightful Eyes: Navigating Optometry’s Meeting® as a Professional. We can’t wait to see you in Nashville!
