Priya, 35 - Research Director, Photographer & Optometrist

A perfect mix of roles…I never get bored and look forward to each day! I spend 4 days a week working for a social enterprise on projects that help people and the wider world using research and photography, and one day in an eye clinic where I undertake clinical examinations for patients pre- and post-surgery. I learn something new every week and it keeps me driven to take on more and help as many people as I can through my work.

A-levels

Maths, Physics & Biology

Degree

City University - Optometry & Visual Science (BSc) + College of Optometrists - pre-registration exams for Optometry (MCOptom)
City University - PhD in Optometry and Visual Science

How I got to where I am now

Retail assistant at WHSmith - stock taking, stacking shelves and working behind the cash register in the books department

Lecturer and clinician (optometrist) at City University - teaching university students Optometric clinical skills and theory (eye care)

Clinical optometrist and researcher at Moorfields eye hospital - undertaking clinical assessments in a Cataract and Refractive surgery eye clinic

Freelance writer of accredited articles - writing articles for various eye care publications for ‘Continuing Education and Training’

PhD at City University - 3-year full-time research investigating the use of new technology to detect Glaucoma, a condition that affects the optic nerve of the eye

Research optometrist at Moorfields eye hospital - undertaking clinical assessments and data collection for large clinical studies investigating new treatments for Glaucoma

Research Director and photographer at Super Being Labs - since 2015 and still going strong!

My big tip...

The most important thing is to do what you enjoy and follow your passion. I know from personal experience that the subject you choose to study at university is not necessarily the one you will follow as a career in the long-term. The decision you make is not a final one...your career can evolve overtime and that's a good thing - it means you keep learning! Never limit yourself or let anyone stop you following your dream! This is a stepping stone to do so much more...there are many paths you can choose.