Shubham Gupta
For Shubham, Optometry offered the perfect combination of science, patient care and lifelong learning.
For Shubham Gupta, choosing Optometry was about finding a career that combined his love of science with the opportunity to work closely with people every day.
"I've always enjoyed science and originally thought about careers like engineering or biomedical engineering. But I realised I really enjoy face-to-face communication and wanted a healthcare career where I could make a meaningful difference to people's lives. Optometry brought all of those interests together."
That combination has made the programme both challenging and rewarding.
One thing people often don't realise is just how much there is to Optometry. You
might think it's 'just the eyes', but they're related to so many other things
in the body.
"Eye examinations can help detect conditions like diabetes, brain tumours, autoimmune diseases and infections, so you're constantly applying knowledge from across health and science."
Alongside the clinical learning, Shubham says the close-knit community has been the highlight of his time at Waipapa Taumata Rau.
"Our cohort is small, so you get to know everyone really well. You attend lectures, labs and clinics together, study together, and support each other through the challenges. It really feels like one big whānau."
Shubham has also embraced opportunities outside the classroom, serving as Vice President and Education Representative for the New Zealand Optometry Students' Society (NZOSS), working as a teaching assistant, and representing his class.
Looking ahead, he's interested in therapeutics and glaucoma co-management, while also hoping to improve access to eye care in rural and underserved communities.
"I'd tell anyone considering Optometry not to underestimate how varied the career is. It offers a great balance of science, patient care and problem-solving, with lots of opportunities to specialise, get involved in research, or help communities that need better access to eye care."