Ophthalmology residencies are in high demand. Preparing for and locating one can be a challenge. Here area a few tips that may assist you in your preparation and search:
Becoming a strong residency candidate...
It is strongly encouraged that the interested candidate work to obtain a rotating internship in small animal medicine and surgery, preferably at an academic institution with ophthalmologists in the United States or Canada. An internship is a good way to acquire more skills in all parts of veterinary medicine and hopefully some ophthalmic skills. Additionally, conducting a research project with an ophthalmologist during an internship would be helpful to demonstrate the candidate's interest in ophthalmology, gain research experience, and develop a relationship with an ophthalmologist who could write letters those critically important letters of recommendation.
Contact veterinary ophthalmologists in your area to see if they have an established residency program or would be interested in applying for a residency program through the ACVO. (If not them...perhaps they know of a colleague seeking a resident.)
Plan to attend the ACVO conference. Many Diplomates have told us this was an invaluable resource when they were seeking their own residency. The ACVO hosts a resident/mentor's session where prospective residents, and prospective and existing mentors attend to ask questions and make contacts. At the conference there is also resident directed education that you could attend along with other networking events. Visit www.ACVOconference.org for more information. (Interns and students are offered reduced rates.)
Consider attending a local chapter ophthalmology conference (Check the ACVO calendar for postings and contact information.)
Consider subscribing to the Veterinary Ophthalmology journal to increase your education on veterinary ophthalmology and the authors (as leaders in their fields).
Join veterinary ophthalmology discussions on Facebook [Enter veterinary ophthalmology into FB search, anyone can sign up. Note: This is not an official ACVO site at this time.]
Consider attending the 3 week course, Basic Science Course, in veterinary ophthalmology designed for DVMs and residents. While the BSC is not intended to train veterinarians, it may offer the interested party an introduction to the basic sciences relevant to veterinary ophthalmology.
