ULL Pre-Optometry and Ophthalmology Association
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wHAT IS AN Od AND MD/dO?
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(OD)
Optometrists perform eye exams and vision tests, prescribe and dispense corrective lenses, detect eye abnormalities, and some can prescribe medications for eye diseases. Many people confuse the responsibilities of an optometrist and an ophthalmologist. Optometrists are not medical doctors. Instead, they have a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree after finishing three or more years of college and four years of optometry school.
hOW do i GET TO OPTOMETRY SCHOOL?
(MD) or (DO)
To become an ophthalmologist, you must finish medical school and complete a residency in ophthalmology. These types of eye doctors have at least 12 years of training—four years each of undergraduate work, medical school, and post-graduate training. Ophthalmologists may provide corrective vision services (eyeglasses or contacts) or perform laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) or photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) surgeries to correct vision problems. They may also operate to treat such disorders as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or strabismus (crossed eyes).
How do i get to med school?
Welcome to OptomCAS!
OptomCAS is the Optometry Centralized Application Service. All schools and colleges of optometry participate in OptomCAS.
American Academy of Ophthalmology 2025
HAs a series of videos for medical students presents lectures based on the Academy's Basic Ophthalmology textbook, an ideal complement to the medical student curriculum.
OAT Bootcamp Study Guide & Schedule
Don't know where to start? Read the study schedule and guide to learn everything you need to know about the 2025 OAT.
The Journal of Optometry
Audience of J Optom includes optometrists, ophthalmologists and visual scientists, other professionals and researchers with interests in vision and the eye as well as undergraduate and post-graduate students in those fields.
FaQs
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Please chat to our friendly team or write us an email at ulpreooapresident@gmail.com
What is the ULL POOA made for?
The Pre-Optometry and Ophthalmology Association (The POOA) is a avenue for University of Louisiana at Lafayette interact, network, present research and enter the Optometry and Ophthalmology fields. With a strong focus on professional development, the society offers workshops, guest lectures, and hands-on experiences to prepare its members for future careers. Students are encouraged to engage in community service, helping to raise awareness about eye health and providing fundraisers to Preventing Blindness organizations. By fostering a supportive community, The POOA aims to inspire and guide aspiring optometrists and ophthalmologists, ensuring they are well-equipped to make a positive impact in the field of eye care and well prepared for Graduate School.
What does the ULL POOA provide to a student?
The ULL POOA offers Leadership positions, Shadowing connections, volunteer hours and Grad school entrance exam training.
How to I join as an incoming freshman?
Check the top of the page for the "Join Now!" button to join our first year entrance list. You can also visit our booth on science days/exploration days
Do we pay dues?
Yes, The POOA requires a $10 fee for every semester you are in the UL POOA
What are meetings like?
We primarily have guest speakers in our field come to speak, as well as group volunteer opportunity's
What is required to be a Member?
You must have an overall 2.5 GPA or above and must complete a total of 3 service hours a semester. You must also be in good standing outside and inside the University in terms of Merit and behavior