Sydney Mathias, IUSO, Class of 2024

As we all know, optometry is a legislated profession, meaning that state and federal law decide the scope of practice in each state. While this may make optometrists and students feel like it is out of our hands, this is far from the truth. Here are some simple ways that we can make a difference for the future of our profession.

• Stay informed. How will we be able to move optometry forward if we don’t know where we currently stand? Because the scope of practice differs state by state, it is important to stay updated on what is going on in your state of practice. Regularly check up on aoa.org/news and here on theaosa.org.

• Donate to AOA-PAC. It is the only political action committee working to elect and reelect pro-optometry candidates to the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, allowing us to support the lawmakers who support us. Candidates who back optometry in a position of power are absolutely essential to our profession. Even the smallest donation from every student who reads this article can make a world of difference. Consider donating today!

• Attend Optometry’s Meeting®. One of the best ways to spark your interest and motivation in advocacy is to listen to others who are passionate. At Optometry’s Meeting, there are many opportunities to learn from optometrists and others who have experience in speaking out against injustices or inequalities in the profession. The meeting will be in Washington, D.C., in 2023; follow your local chapters on social media and @theaosa on Instagram so you can be ready when registration opens!