Optometry
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Nora Lehtimaki, MS ‘25, has always been drawn to the health care professions, but what really inspired her to go into optometry was the combination of science, technology and the opportunity to make a direct impact on the quality of people’s lives.
“Eyesight plays such a crucial role in everyday functioning, and being able to preserve and improve eyesight is deeply meaningful to me,” said Lehtimaki. “I also enjoy the problem-solving aspect of the profession and the long-term relationships that we can build with patients.”
She was one of three international students, along with Anni Kappi, MS ‘25 and Anna-Riitta Ripatti, MS ‘25 from Finland who recently traveled to the University’s Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, campus for a two-week program. Spanning from June 2 through June 13, it was, titled “Specialized Training in Primary Eye Care Emphasizing the Diagnosis and Management of Eye Disease.”
The course is designed for ophthalmic practitioners who have earned a BSc in optometry and beyond. The students first have to undergo a rigorous master of science education program at Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OUAS) in Finland, where they have received didactic studies and hands-on clinical procedures training.
There has been an emphasis in the optometric profession lately on advanced clinical skills training and the diagnosis and management of commonly encountered eye diseases. During the program, the three students refined their knowledge and skills with hands-on controlled patient-care sessions under the guidance of assistant professor Robert Andersson, MSc ‘10, PhD ‘18, MEd '23, FBCLA, FAAO.
"In any clinical profession, it is crucial to be able to assess patients with complex pathology and integrate clinical findings to create a diagnosis and a successful management plan,” said Dr. Andersson. “We have a unique patient population that enables us to offer these specialized programs.”
Anni Kappi, who owned her own optical store in Finland for 15 years before selling the business to concentrate on her studies, has worn glasses since she was a young girl. When she was in high school, a local optician was looking for summer help, she got the job and it piqued her interest.
“I had always dreamed of going to medical school but optometry took me away,” said Kappi. Her favorite part of the program was ocular training and the clinic neuro-ophthalmic training.
“I have learned and seen a lot of new things,” she said. “This course has taught us a holistic approach and how combining small pieces, we can find the cause of the patient’s problems.”
Anna-Riitta Ripatti was motivated to pursue a career in optometry because it offered a combination of science and human interaction. “I have widely studied ocular pathologies in practice and have been evaluating treatments,” said Ripatti, who is especially interested in diabetic retinopathy and the development of diabetic eyecare. “I hope I will be able to develop my skills further and share information with my colleagues back home.
Lehtimaki, who has several years of experience working as an optometrist in Finland, said participation in the program helped deepen her clinical knowledge and gain an international perspective, especially in managing more complex ocular conditions.
“Oulu University OUAS in Finland and Drexel have a strong international reputation in optometric education and the clinical training opportunities here are outstanding,” she said. “I wanted a program that would challenge me and allow me to grow professionally. I also appreciate the welcoming and supportive learning environment. It has boosted my confidence and sharpened my diagnostic skills, and maybe a little bit of my language, too.”
Salus/Drexel has been hosting students from Oulu University OUAS since 2018. Students who complete the course receive a training certificate and a patient care log.
It wasn’t all business for the students while they were here. They were able to attend a Phillies game, visit the Rocky statue outside the Philadelphia Art Museum and enjoy some shopping at the outlets.
Dr. Andersson said this year’s cohort, albeit just three students, performed their patient care exceptionally well and took many new skills back to their home country.
“This is where it all comes together for the students, and we make it happen,” he said. “Salus at Drexel University has a profound impact on the practice of eye care globally.”
