A Future in Private Practice: Returning to My Virginia Community

I’m the youngest of five sisters, so I knew that as the only sibling to pursue a career in optometry, I would make my mark. I started considering the field during undergrad, drawn to the balance it offered to help others while also having the autonomy to shape my own path. Now, I’m a third-year student at the University of California, Berkeley School of Optometry. 

Inspired by Private Practice 
My hometown in suburban Virginia is comprised of predominantly private practices. I saw the same eye doctor my entire life, and that continuity of care left a lasting impression. From sitting in the patient chair to shadowing other private practice doctors, I’ve seen how long-term relationships with patients build trust and impact lives across generations. These experiences sparked my desire to pursue private practice, where I hope to foster the same kind of meaningful connections. 

Throughout optometry school, I’ve pursued opportunities to explore private practice and expand my skills through involvement in organizations like the National Optometric Student Association, the California Optometric Student Association, and the Optometric Business Management Club. I’m grateful for VSP’s ongoing support of these programs as my classmates and I prepare to enter the profession. I’m especially eager to deepen my involvement with the National Optometric Association to better understand the role of diversity in eye care—and how those insights can shape my future patient interactions. 

2025 Hisaka Memorial Scholarship 
As part of my journey to private practice, I also participated in the VSP-sponsored Business Management Immersion Program (BMIP), which pairs students with Premier Edge practices to gain real-world insight into practice ownership. Private practice is leading the way for optometry, so I’m thankful VSP offers optometry students like me the unique opportunity to see the ins and outs of this modality firsthand.  

Sharing my BMIP experience led to the honor of receiving the 2025 Dr. Craig Hisaka Memorial Scholarship—named for Dr. Hisaka, a strong advocate who championed future practice owners. Being chosen for this scholarship reinforces that I’m on the right path to build a career rooted in long-term patient relationships. 

Looking Ahead 
While I’ve enjoyed my time in the California Bay Area, I know I eventually want to return to my roots and practice in Virginia. After learning more about VSP Vision Eyes of Hope and our shared passion for helping others, I was very drawn to the opportunity to hopefully host a mobile clinic like that in my hometown—where there is a greater need for accessible eye care. I’m eager to give back to the community that has always supported me. 

My ultimate goal as an optometrist is to provide high-quality care to all patients regardless of their background or socioeconomic status. As Eye See It, it’s not always just about the eye exam—it’s about making sure every patient leaves my practice knowing they were truly seen and heard. That makes all the difference.