Eye on the Prize: Expanding Student Awareness of Optometry as a Profession

Authors

Lorena Flores-Hernandez, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow

Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

Fall 10-15-2025

Disciplines

Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Eye Diseases | Interprofessional Education | Medicine and Health Sciences | Optometry | Public Health Education and Promotion

Abstract

The proposed Doctor of Optometry program at UTRGV has the potential to positively enhance the ocular health of our communities. Implementing an outreach program highlighting a career path in optometry will be essential for the future of eyecare in the Rio Grande Valley.

According to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the optometric workforce is projected to grow over the next decade. The increased demand for optometrists is related to multiple factors including an aging population with chronic diseases and a nationwide shortage of ophthalmology practitioners.

Nationally, the Optometry Gives Me Life campaign, launched by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO), encourages students interested in health professions to consider a career in eye care. The campaign promotes interests by highlighting the benefits of work-life balance and providing “day in the life” perspectives of the profession.

At UTRGV, collaborations with pre-health advising centers, social media campaigns and in-person workshops will support the development of a professional pathway in vision care.

The “Eye Can Do That” project provides insights into everyday eyecare and trends in optometry. The development of these structured outreach activities provides a framework with measurable indicators such as workshop attendance and pre and post event assessment comparisons. Collectively these initiatives aim to inspire student engagement and expand public awareness of optometry’s essential role in vision care.

Recommended Citation

Flores-Hernandez, Lorena, "Eye on the Prize: Expanding Student Awareness of Optometry as a Profession" (2025). MedEd Teaching Certificate Program. 2.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/mededteachingcertificate/2

Academic Level

faculty

Mentor/PI Department

Neurology