Deadline for AOP student representative applications extended

The AOP has extended the deadline to apply for the 2024–25 cohort of student representatives.

The deadline to complete and return the AOP student representative application form has been extended to 31 May 2024.

The network of 15 student representatives raises the experiences and voices of students from optometry schools across the UK to help inform AOP initiatives.

The AOP is seeking first and second-year optometry students “with a passion for optometry and ideas for how the AOP can better support our student members.”

Student representatives have the opportunity to collaborate with peers at other universities, learn from more experienced optometrists, and gain insight into different areas of the profession.

The reps also work with AOP teams to influence the direction of the profession, and successful candidates could be considered for future positions on the AOP Council.

Ameena Qureshi, AOP student representative for the University of the West of England, shared that a highlight of the experience has been meeting students from other universities and learning more about the AOP. She added: “It has been great providing my views and thoughts and having them being heard.”

Rita Davids, AOP membership benefits officer, explained that the AOP has chosen to extend the deadline for applications in recognition of the busy time of year for student members preparing for exams.

“Please visit our student web pages to understand more about what the role entails and how you can ensure that the views and opinions of the future generation of optometrists are heard,” she said, adding: “The role also offers the opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals, giving you plenty of ways to expand your network and enhance your CV, helping you stand out from the crowd to a future employer.”

Candidates interested in applying should download and complete the AOP student representative application form, returning it to Rita Davids by Friday 31 May 2024.