Medical Students

Why Choose Pediatric Ophthalmology?

It's never too early to consider a career in pediatric ophthalmology. In this career, you'll help children see for a lifetime! Choose a specialty where you provide long-term comprehensive care for kids with great work-life balance from lower after-hours and less on-call responsibilities. Pediatric ophthalmologists are in high demand globally, by patients, academic institutions, and private practices. Have the freedom to practice how you want, where you want.

Hear from a Medical Student

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Why choose Pediatric Ophthalmology? Medical Student, Resident, & Attending Perspectives. Listen now!

"I always knew I wanted to work with children in my future career in medicine. After college, I started to work as a medical assistant in a pediatric ophthalmology office. The continuity of care and longitudinal relationships I saw with the physician and the patients and their family's was not necessarily unique to pediatric ophthalmology, but I think is a core part of this practice and one that I absolutely loved." — Angela Ngo, Medical Student '25


Tips for Medical Students Pursuing Pediatric Ophthalmology

  • Gain exposure to ophthalmology through job shadowing or volunteer opportunities with ophthalmology clinics.
  • Seek out research opportunities in ophthalmology or pediatrics.
  • Join the AAPOS network through a Provisional Membership to stay up to date on professional development, networking, advocacy opportunities and free resources in the field of pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus.

 

AAPOS 4th-Year Medical Student Away Rotation Grant Program 

This program provides a stipend up to $1,500 to defray expenses for 4th-year medical students seeking away rotation electives in pediatric ophthalmology.  This is a competitive program and there are only 6 awardees per year.  

For questions regarding the Away Rotation Grant, please Email:  Info@aapos.org 

Apply Here

     

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Best Practices for Matching into Ophthalmology 

The first step on your pediatric ophthalmology journey is to match into ophthalmology. 

If your medical school offers ophthalmology residencies, that’s a great place to start. A conversation with the residency director can yield valuable information on what they’re looking for in potential residents, as well as tips that contribute to a successful application. But if not, don’t worry – there are plenty of resources to help you!  

The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers Residency Match Basics for Ophthalmology. In addition to earning high grades in medical school, students can enhance their application through activities such as research, job shadowing, and building professional contacts in ophthalmology. 

     

Additional Resources: 

American Academy of Ophthalmology Guide to the Ophthalmology Match