Clubs and volunteering
Optometrist: activities that show real interest in this career. Pick a career below to see other ideas.
What colleges actually look for
- Depth, not a long list. Two or three activities over several years mean more than ten short ones.
- Growing responsibility. Leading, organizing, teaching, or starting something.
- Real impact. What changed because your child was there.
No single club guarantees admission.
Read the guide: what US colleges look for →Clubs to look for at school
- HOSA – Future Health Professionals(official website)HealthHealth-careers club with skills competitions.
- Science Olympiad(official website)CompetitionPhysics and biology events.
- Physics or biology clubClubHow light and the eye work is at the heart of optometry.
Volunteering ideas
- Shadow an optometristAsk your family eye doctor if your child can observe for a few hours.
- Vision screening eventsService clubs such as Lions and Leo Clubs run free screenings; ask if students can help.
- Community health fairsHelp with registration, translation, and set-up.
Optometry school (a Doctor of Optometry degree) comes after college. Strong biology, chemistry, and physics matter, and shadowing an optometrist helps.
These count too
- A paid part-time job
- Caring for siblings or translating for parents
- Steady service at your temple, gurdwara, mosque, or community group
The Common App has its own categories for paid work and family responsibilities.
Last reviewed October 7, 2026.