

A group of UW Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences staff, faculty and learners recently teamed up to put on a half-day learning opportunity – all about eyes – for local students.
The “Odyssey Into Ophthalmology” course, created by Cat Burkat, MD, FACS, took place on Friday, April 15. Over a dozen students from Madison East High School got a crash-course in comprehensive ophthalmology, oculoplastics, cornea/retina, pediatric care, cataract surgery and much more. Faculty and learners put on informative presentations and took part in educational games, as well as conducting an eye myth-busting session which allowed students to ask all of their burning questions about the eyes.
Throughout the day, students were also able to get hands-on experience with suturing techniques, practice surgical skills on grapes, and examine each other’s eyes using slit lamps.
Overall, students left with a better understanding of ophthalmology as not only a science, but as a career possibility as well.
A special thanks to our DOVS faculty members and learners who donated their time and expertise to this course, including:
Tyler Boulter, MD
Cat Burkat, MD
Elaine Downie, MD
Daniel Knoch, MD
Jennifer Larson, MD
Travis Rumery, DO
Michael Struck, MD