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Eyes on Diversity

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group of young diverse students

High School Enrichment Program

Organized by UMSL’s College of Optometry and Office of Precollegiate Student Services.

Within this program, high school students have the opportunity to learn more about becoming an optometrist, a primary eye health care provider. Our program will provide hands-on activities and presentations about pursuing a Doctor of Optometry degree. Students will also engage in professional and personal development workshops.

The Eyes on Diversity program is brought to you by the College of Optometry and Precollegiate Services (Bridge) through generous sponsorship by VSP Vision. 

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Applicant Requirements:

  • Currently in 10th, 11th or 12th grade level 
  • Minimum GPA (current or cumulative) of 2.75
  • Complete online application
  • Mail or email 1 recommendation by deadline.
  • Agree to student participant and parent/guardian commitment.
Participants are expected to fully participate in activities to meet program requirements.

APPLICATION OPENS MARCH 3, 2025

Code of Conduct Supplemental Document

Application Process:

  1. Submit online Eyes on Diversity: High School Enrichment Application. This includes submission of short-response question: “Why is access to eye care important in your community?”
  2. Request one (1) letter of recommendation to be submitted to the Eyes on Diversity program director (Dr. Angel Novel Simmons) by email to: novela@umsystem.edu
  3. Students with completed applications and meeting full eligibility will be contacted by member of Eyes on Diversity team to discuss the program in detail.
  4. Up to twenty (20) students will be selected for the 2025 Academy.

Important Dates:

  • Application opens March 3, 2025
  • Notice of acceptance will begin March 31, 2025
  • Program date June 21, 2025

Tentative Schedule of Activities:

Morning session: Introductions, program overview, campus tour, professional development workshop, introduction to UMSL + Optometry

Afternoon session: Eye anatomy lecture and laboratory, clinical skills demonstrations, round table conversation with current ODs and students

  • Participants will be provided all necessary materials for full participation in each session. There will be hands-on, interactive learning and laboratory skills presented throughout the program.
  • Successful program participants will receive a small stipend upon completion of the program


For questions and more information please email novela@umsystem.edu

Program Goal: to create an inclusive community in optometry that aligns with the core values in the UMSL strategic plan.