2021 Florida Pre-Med Scholarship Program
Helping Future Eye Care Professionals of Florida
In 2021, Shane Retina proudly supported aspiring medical students through our Florida Pre-Med Scholarship Program. This initiative was created to encourage and assist students pursuing careers in medicine, particularly those interested in eye care and vision health.
Vision plays a vital role in maintaining independence and quality of life, yet the United States continues to face a shortage of eye care professionals. Through this scholarship program, we aimed to support motivated students who represent the next generation of physicians dedicated to preserving sight and improving patient outcomes.
Scholarship Awards Offered in 2021
- $2,500 – First Prize
- $1,500 – Second Prize
- $1,000 – Third Prize
2021 Infographic Scholarship Contest
Applicants were asked to create an educational infographic using reputable data sources such as academic institutions, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations. Each submission addressed one of the topics below.
Infographic Topics
What Are Eye Floaters?
Eye floaters are a common visual symptom that often becomes more noticeable with age. While many floaters are
harmless, sudden or numerous new floaters can indicate serious conditions such as retinal tears or retinal
detachment. Applicants explored what eye floaters are, when they should be evaluated, and what treatment options may
be available for persistent floaters.
Undertreatment of Macular Degeneration
Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels leak fluid into the macula, the area responsible for
central vision. Early detection and timely treatment can prevent severe vision loss, yet many patients are diagnosed
too late or treated inconsistently. This topic focused on the importance of early intervention and ongoing care.
New Treatments for Macular Degeneration
Despite advances in treating age-related macular degeneration, vision loss remains common. Applicants examined
emerging treatments and technologies aimed at improving outcomes for patients with both wet and advanced dry macular
degeneration.
Recommended Infographic Tools
Past Scholarship Winners
- View the 2020 Florida Pre-Med Scholarship Winners
- View the 2021 Florida Pre-Med Scholarship Winners
Eligibility Requirements (2021 Program)
- Florida resident
- Actively involved in a pre-med program
- Enrolled in a four-year college in Florida
- Intending to pursue an advanced degree in medicine
- Attending an accredited Florida college during the Fall 2021 semester
Required Application Information (2021)
- Full name
- Phone number
- Email address
- Name and address of the college the applicant planned to attend
- Contact information for the college’s financial aid office
- Proof of enrollment or registration for Fall 2021
- Intended major or program of study
- Parent or guardian contact information if under 18
Application Timeline (2021)
- Application Period: April 1, 2021 – June 30, 2021
- Winner Notification: By July 14, 2021
Scholarship recipients were selected by Shane Retina and Dr. Thomas Shane based on the quality, accuracy, and educational value of their infographic submissions, as well as demonstrated academic potential. Scholarship funds were issued directly to each recipient’s college financial aid office.
Privacy Policy
All personal information collected during the scholarship application process was used solely for the purpose of administering the scholarship program. No applicant information was sold, shared, or distributed to third parties.
By submitting an entry to the Shane Retina Florida Pre-Med Scholarship Program, applicants granted permission for Shane Retina to edit, use, and publish submitted infographic materials.