Perception and expectations of newly enrolled students from the Optometry profession – a study from Northern India.

Abstract

Aim: This study provides information regarding the perception &expectations of newly enrolled optometry students in the optometry profession.
 Scope: the knowledge generated from this study will give a basic picture to key decision-makers and educators concerning the support needs of future students in neglected areas, creating awareness strategies for students, and developing informed human resources which would be more efficient in-service delivery in eye health care. 
 Methodology: It’s a questionnaire-based study. The data collected through an online questionnaire from students of different optometry colleges.
 Statistical Analysis Used: 
 Result: 152students responded to the questionnaire, Majority of students 91(59.9%) selected Optometry as a first choice. The majority of students 93(61.2%) know that optometrist can work as a researcher. 80 (52.6%) feels they should get a salary between 25000 – 35000 Indian nation rupees (339.63 – 475.48 US$) after completing the four years optometry profession
 Conclusion: Our study shows newly enrolled students are aware about optometry profession and its scope however areas like salary expectations and language skills are concerned areas in students.