Supporting our students

Earlier this year, the College surveyed a sample of all newly qualified members joining the College between May 2004 and May 2005. The results suggested that two thirds of students became aware of the College during their first year at university, and that a similar proportion were aware that they were, by default, student members of the College.

However, more detailed follow-up with individual students and academic staff identified that students' understanding about the College and its role was patchy and inconsistent, and that there was a desire to know more.

As a result, the College has reviewed what it offers students and launched an awareness campaign. College student associate members will now be able to access a variety of  new or improved benefits.

Two interactive roadshow programmes have been organised for 2005/2006. Fresher Roadshows will take place at all eight universities during September and October. The roadshows will be hosted by senior Council members and will introduce new, first-year optometry students to the College. Fresher packs (worth approximately £10) will be distributed to every first year student who attends and an informal networking session will take place after the presentation.

A series of pre-registration roadshows is planned for all eight universities later in the academic year. The roadshows will provide practical advice on how best to prepare for the pre-registration period (PRP) and will include a short presentation from a recently qualified optometrist who will share their experiences of the PRP.

The newly launched College website (www.college-optometrists.org) includes a dedicated student area. Students will be able to find out more about the College and the benefits it offers, as well as updates on the scheme for registration and other information relevant to their study. We have also launched PRP Talk, an online discussion forum that enables students to discuss any queries regarding their exams, studies or PRP with their peers, College examiners and experts in the field.