The AOSA is the student extension of the American Optometric Association (AOA) which represents over 32,000 optometrists throughout the country. The AOSAs mission is to promote the profession of optometry, to help improve the visual welfare as well as the general health of the public and enhance the education of future optometrists. It is a great way to become involved and find out more about what is going on in the profession of optometry. Involvement in AOSA will help prepare you to become a practicing optometrist and to step right into the AOA after graduation. The AOA is a legislative body of state associations that work together to improve eye care and the practice of optometry. The association is composed of three levels: local, state and federal. Here are some benefits to being an AOSA/AOA member:
AOSA membership benefits:
- You are an automatic AOA member
- Student health insurance
- Opportunities to attend the annual AOSA Conference/Convention
(travel grants available)
- Free T-shirts, Binder, Clipboards, Flash Drives, PDRs
- Discounts for Eyeball Tickets
- Car rental and hotel discounts throughout the country
- Various professional journals including the Foresight, Optometry: Journal of the American Optometric Association, AOA News, all included with your membership
- AOSA-sponsored speakers
- Social activities
AOA membership benefits:
- Advocate for your profession ( local, state and national)
- Loans/Grants/Scholarships information available on the AOA website
- $1000 Leadership Scholarship (3rd year)
- Optometrys Career Center (National Practice Resource Network to link job seekers with opportunity providers)
- Student publications that focus on practice management, residencies and other topics relating to students
Activities the AOSA provides:
- Eyeball (Dinner/Dance to honor graduating 4th year students)
- College T-shirt sales (GREAT Christmas idea!!)
- Corneal Classic Golf Tournament (in late April)
- Sprint for Sight (in mid March)
For more information visit the AOSA site.
