97-03-24 Ooptometry Open House April 20

OPTOMETRY OPEN HOUSE AN EYE OPENER FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

     COLUMBUS --  Students interested in pursuing the field of 
optometry or individuals who simply want to learn more about the 
profession can do so April 20 during an open house at The Ohio 
State University College of Optometry, 338 W. 10th Ave., from 1 
p.m. to 4 p.m.

     Internationally known for research in infant vision and 
contact lenses, the college is ranked second among the 19 schools 
and colleges of optometry in the United States and Canada.

     "The first-time passage rate for our graduates on the 
national board of examiners -- the exam needed to become licensed 
to practice optometry -- is significantly higher than the 
national average," said Susan Carpenter, director of student 
affairs in the college.  "On the basic science section of the 
exam, the 1996 national average was 63 percent.  Our graduates 
scored 92 percent."

     The college offers nine state-of-the-art eye care specialty 
clinics in the areas of contact lenses, treatment and management 
of eye disease, geriatrics, vision rehabilitation, primary vision 
care, low vision, ophthalmic prescription care, and pediatrics.  
With 58 examination rooms, third- and fourth-year optometry 
students rotate throughout the clinical services and perform 
primary vision care for some 5,500 patients who visit the clinic 
each year.  Students also perform free vision screenings at 
elementary and high schools, nursing homes and special events.

     Tours of the facility will be offered during the open house, 
along with an admissions and financial aid information session, 
and meet and greet sessions with faculty, staff and current 
students.  The event is free and open to the public.  

                             #

CONTACT: Susan Carpenter, (614) 292-2647.


[Submitted by: Von Vargas  (vargas.12@osu.edu)
               
Mon, 24 Mar 1997 10:57:33 -0500 (EST)]
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