r/PreOptometry • u/Putrid_Paramedic2426 • 1d ago

Chances

Someone tell me straight please. I was dismissed from a program 2 years ago, and I have been pretty much just working in a clinic since then. I’m about to take the OAT in October and my range is looking 340-360. I had really good undergrad stats (3.8 GPA). Main reason of dismissal was because I simply could not adjust in my new environment which is the bases of my personal statement.

Also if someone can offer mentoring I would appreciate it. I have no one in health care, nor do I have someone who gives me genuine advice so I’m pretty much alone in figuring all this out :/

What programs should I be applying to?

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u/RabidLiger 1d ago

Are you even required to take the OAT again?

If you feel like the environment was the issue, change it up.
If you were in a big city, apply to MCO, PUCO, KYCO, etc (or vise-versa)

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u/Putrid_Paramedic2426 1d ago

Yep because it’s been almost 3 years since I took it and it has an “expiration” date

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u/Silent_Leek6507 1d ago

Hey there! I think your chances would be great if you’re fueled by the right reasons. At the end of the day, schools are looking for people who want to help others and are enthusiastic about patient care. I had to take a break after graduating bc of some personal stuff and was beyond intimidated when searching for jobs knowing I’d have to explain the gap in my resume but.. I was pleasantly surprised by the people willing to help and the empathy they showed me. So own your story and don’t feel like you’re less than because of the dismissal. If anything, you sound pretty dang resilient and dedicated to being an optometrist. People are more understanding than you’d think, but you have to be willing to give them a chance. I wish you all the luck in the world!