Our 'Unconventional Optometrist' column is where we chat to optometrists who are a bit out of the ordinary! Do you know anyone who we should feature? Let us know!
Here's this month's Unconventional Optometrist. Megan Tu is an optometrist who works in primary and high schools in South-West Sydney. Read ahead to find out more - what an interesting optometrist she is!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got into being a School Optometrist.
I graduated from UNSW School of Optometry and Vision Science at the end of 2011. Upon graduating I worked at a full-scope independent practice in regional NSW, which allowed me to freely explore different avenues of Optometry, such as behavioural optometry, contact lenses, sports vision and advanced optical dispensing. This was a fantastic experience to help me develop clinically and professionally, and helped shape my passion for Optometry.
Tell us about your typical day at work. Is it a full-time or part-time position?
On Monday to Fridays, I work in primary and high schools in South West Sydney, providing comprehensive eye examinations to students. In the evenings and on the weekends, my partner and I have recently opened an after-hours optometry clinic. I also work a couple hours a week at the UNSW Optometry clinic as a clinical supervisor for the paediatric clinic. Finally, I was a founding member and current Secretary for Young Optometrists NSW/ACT.
What are some benefits to working in your unique situation?
My work puts me into very different environments and allows me the opportunity to develop a good mix of clinical, teaching, networking and business administration and management skills. It keeps me on my toes and it means that I am never bored! Being a part of YO keeps me aware of our professional environment outside of the consultation room, and allows me the opportunity to actively contribute to shaping the future of Optometry.
What are some differences between what you do and a 'traditional' optometry job?
I am generally not in your typical consulting room, as the bulk of my consultations are in a mobile working environment. My own practice operates after-hours, which again is different from the usual 9-5 job, and can involve home visits as well. With a particular interest in behavioural optometry, the bulk of my patients are children and I am fortunate to be able to offer and develop my skills in areas such as vision therapy.
How did you get into this unique area of optometry?
I was passionate about paediatrics and behavioural optometry since my undergraduate degree, where (unlike most of my peers) paediatrics clinic was my favourite clinic! I did the Behavioural Optometry units of the UNSW Masters course and I have practiced in full-scope behavioural practices since graduating. I am a member of ACBO and continue to develop my interest by attending CPD conferences.
What advice would you give to other optometrists who also wish to pursue this type of optometry?
Keep an open mind, critically think about information that you’re given and keep on learning and improving yourself. Don’t just accept the status quo. Find your passion and pursue it.
