7 Combined Optometry Residency and Graduate Program The need for more leaders and faculty in optometric education cannot be overstated. SUNY Optometry now offers the Combined Optometry Residency and Graduate Program, a unique opportunity for new ODs to develop advanced clinical competency through a residency while working on a graduate research degree – MS or PhD. Dr. David Troilo, vice president and dean for academic affairs, helped initiate the plan for the innovative program with Dr. Kathryn Richdale and Dr. Diane Adamczyk and says he is in the process of seeking official recognition by the Accreditation Council on Education. “We’ve spread the work over two years to accomodate both the intensive clinical experience of a residency while offering the more academic, research-oriented focus of a graduate degree.” Dr. MuEn Yang, a graduate of the University of Montreal’s School of Optometry, is the College’s first residency/MS student. Her interest in optometry, particularly low vision and ocular disease, developed as she witnessed her own grandmother’s experience with cataracts. “I chose to come to SUNY Optometry because this is pretty much the first program of its kind,” says Dr. Yang, whose research with Dr. Mitchell Dul focuses on glaucoma and psychophysical testing. “It’s a very flexible opportunity. I spend half of my time in clinic, half of my time on research, and I can mix and match with other specialties.” The program’s research opportunities complement clinical experience in primary care, pediatrics, cornea and contact lens, vision rehabilitation, traumatic brain injury, or ocular disease. Applicants must be both determined and enthusiastic according to Dr. Joan Portello, who actively recruited Dr. Yang and serves as her current advisor. “I reached out to a Canadian colleague during my search for highly qualified students who may be interested in the College’s new venture. [MuEn] came highly recommended and is truly exceeding expectations.” Dr. Portello believes the program will thrive because it provides exceptional new ODs with additional professional options. “Not only will students get their certification and gain an additional degree, but they can practice, do clinical research, or get a Ph.D. when they are done.” Dr. Yang is weighing her options – private practice, industrial research, or teaching – but certainly plans to put her skills to use on mission trips. “I am willing to practice anywhere there is a need.” Dr. MuEn Yang
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