Congratulations – you just graduated! Now what’s next?

This is an exciting time as you begin to put into practice what you have learned in optometry school. One of your many first steps in being a doctor of optometry is also making sure that you support your chosen profession. Optometry can only achieve its goals and ensure its future through the involvement of  those who make up the profession.

Organized optometry through your state, national, and local association is the one venue that captures and articulates the collective voice of optometry. It protects your license to practice, and expands your scope of practice. The associations that make up organized optometry, AOA, COA and the local society, help to maintain the standards of the profession and offers quality education for ongoing development of your professional career. Support the future course of optometry through the advocacy of your profession. Meet other members and network with your future peers as you establish professional contacts in your local community.

If you plan on becoming licensed in California and/or relocating to this state to practice, complete your Priority membership application today! Priority membership is your commitment to becoming an active member of AOA, COA and your local society. You will be eligible for all COA and AOA membership benefits such as discounts for educational conferences, member-only rates for association-sponsored insurance programs and members-only resources available on AOA and COA’s websites. And, we can make sure that you continue receiving your subscription to California Optometry magazine, COA Member News and Government Affairs Weekly e-communications.

Become a Priority member by completing and submitting the membership application today – available to download HERE. Or simply call Jodi Haas, development manager, at 916.266.5038, to update your information and convert your membership in two minutes or less!  This way, you won’t have to experience a gap in membership.  As a 2015 graduate, your dues are waived until January 1, 2016.

If you will be dedicating an additional year towards residency training, you may still maintain your student membership. Contact COA and apply for Post-graduate membership if you are undergoing graduate study on a full-time basis, and/or engaged full-time as a resident or fellow in a residency or post-doctoral program.

And if you haven’t already received yours, be sure to download the 2015 Optometrist Resource Guide. This guide has been compiled and produced by COA with the new graduate in mind. It offers practical steps to assist newly graduated doctors of optometry in getting started. This guide also provides some considerations to help the new practitioner explore different modes of practice. Job search resources, as well as a timeline and checklists with suggestions for starting a new practice, are included.

Distinguish yourself now!  Help shape your profession through the California Optometric Association and set the standard in eye care.