Personal Statement:Orthoptics

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

What attracts me to the course is my strong interest in the workings of the eye and seeing first-hand the limitations and importance of our vision, as genetically impaired vision runs throughout my family. I found out I was short sighted at a young age, but at that age could never imagine the endless challenges that can exist within the eye. My eyesight weakening has only strengthened my passion to pursue a career in Orthoptics.

I have a special affinity for Biology and Chemistry and was drawn to a career relating to these subjects. I attended a lecture about Optometry at the University of Manchester, where we examined the structure and health of the eye. It included a case study concerning a girl who had a cataract; after researching this I discovered it involved deterioration in vision due to clouding of the lens inside the eye. I knew I wanted to seek a career in Optometry, Orthoptics, or Ophthalmology. After intensive research into these professions, I came to the conclusion that Orthoptics was best suited for me. Optometrists are trained to determine the type of vision problems and prescribe eyewear, whilst Orthoptists assess, diagnose and manage patients with eye muscle disorders. I believe my approachable nature is suited to a career where the majority of patients are children, whom I would cherish the opportunity to work with. My preferred work surroundings have consistently involved interacting with others in a social environment, such as volunteering at a primary school which included helping the teacher plan her lessons and assisting students. This has increased my confidence in speaking to all age groups, and has refined my ability to cooperate as part of a team.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

Studying Maths has furthered my ability in analysing problems and solving them systematically. Biology and Chemistry have allowed me to understand the intricate nature of the human body at a molecular level. Studying the human body and how drugs can affect it was enjoyable. For example we looked at botulinum toxin (BOTOX) in Chemistry, and problems concerning the eye such as ptosis in Biology, which can be caused by BOTOX. Learning French has been valuable in allowing me to communicate to a wider range of people, and has improved my interpersonal skills. During my work experience shadowing an orthodontist, I gained an insight into his manner of communicating to patients in order to make them feel relaxed. I managed times for patients and made appointments, and attained organisational skills which I can apply in a university environment. Working part time as an assistant at an electronics shop where I regularly tend to the customers, divide and efficiently sort out the products, has improved my ability to work with others, listen effectively and work independently. These characteristics are applicable as I will be working closely with Ophthalmologists and other medical practitioners. I have arranged work experience shadowing an Orthoptist which I hope will give me greater knowledge and prepare me for this career.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

During my school career I have participated in the tennis club, chess club, computer programming, Amnesty International and karate. They have given me beneficial skills which can be utilized as an Orthoptist, such as hand-eye coordination to assure that I perform procedures correctly. Learning to judge all possible outcomes will ensure that I can expect the worst and respond and adapt quickly to various situations. Attending karate lessons for 3 years makes me appreciate how essential it is to have self-discipline. Lastly I have taken a leading role in Amnesty international sessions for 5 years, enabling me to be a more compassionate person; I now have a better understanding of the importance of protecting people's rights and treating everyone equally. Overall I am positive that I have the attributes of an attentive, empathetic and hardworking individual as shown by my experiences and would thrive in a demanding career like Orthoptics.

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

Need help with your personal statement? You can ask a question or get feedback from The Student Room community (and our trained personal statement experts) on the personal statement advice forum.