Lok Kwun Wong (Kubi) - Hong Kong, 9 October, 2024
We had the opportunity to speak with Kubi, who studied our Bachelor of Vision Science and is now in his final year of a Master of Optometry at QUT. He shared with us his reasons for choosing this path and the valuable hands-on experience he has gained throughout his studies.
Why did you choose to study optometry at QUT?
Optometry is a five-year course which includes three years of bachelor and two years of master study. I was fascinated by the optometry field in Australia, where everyone can receive specialised eye care. The most significant aspect of this course lies in the quality of eye care in Australia. Upon completion, we gain the authority to prescribe therapeutic eye drops to patients, expanding our role beyond traditional 'glasses' to comprehensive eye care. This is particularly crucial, as eye health is often overlooked in other countries. The course equips us to proactively promote eye care by detecting potential issues early through the identification of red flags. I'm really happy that I have picked the right course, as optometry is a really fun subject, and the QUT course provides me with insight into different eye diseases and opportunities for problem-solving in vision.
What practical experience have you had throughout your course?
What sets my course at QUT apart is its commitment to staying up to date with the latest developments and practices, ensuring that our learning is directly relevant to the dynamic needs of the industry. Optometry treatments are constantly evolving. QUT consistently refers to the latest studies, incorporating updates into the course materials. This approach enables us to grasp what the 'real world' is doing to advance vision care. Additionally, QUT places a strong emphasis on practical skills. Students are provided with opportunities to apply and refine their abilities, such as through consultations with real patients in the QUT Optometry Clinic.
The QUT Optometry Clinic provide full eye examinations, including advanced technology to detect eye diseases, with specialist clinical services for children and individuals. Our clients and the public have access to a large range of spectacle frames, lenses and contact lenses through our dispensing service.
Optometry and Vision Science students work in the clinic under the supervision of qualified and therapeutically endorsed optometrists.
Check out the clinic by taking a virtual tour.
What do you like best about the QUT facilities?
The facilities are definitely my favourite things at QUT, such as the quiet study rooms, computer lab, and printing services in the QUT libraries. The library facilities are amazing, and I can study there all day if I need to.
Find out more about the facilities at QUT Kelvin Grove campus in this video tour.
What type of support have you received?
QUT goes the extra mile in providing robust support for international students, ensuring you'll benefit from it. The tutors and professors are exceptionally supportive, and the study materials are presented in a way that is easy to understand. There are many opportunities to build friendships within this course, as my classmates are universally friendly and approachable. No one hesitates to help, even if you pose what might seem like a silly question.
I also received a scholarship from QUT College for my outstanding academic performance. The scholarship reduces the tuition fee burden for me and increases my sense of belonging at QUT.
Have you been involved in any student clubs?
I have joined quite a few student clubs, and I met a lot of people from all over the world. I connected with some other international students from my own country as well. I joined QUT social soccer, and I enjoyed it a lot since the QUT sports field is amazing and the people there are nice as well.
Study our Bachelor of Vision Science