Karishma and her Kentish journey

Karishma Patel enjoyed her summer placement in our Chatham practice so much, she completed her pre-registration there and is now working at the store full time. She shares why she stayed and how she’s helping the next generation of optometrists.

It was during her second year of optometry at Plymouth University, that Karishma started looking for a placement as an optical assistant. “I got offers from several companies, but I wanted to work for Specsavers as I’d heard good things about them,” she reflects. “I found out the Chatham store in Kent was looking for someone. I decided to visit the team and was really impressed. I realised I could learn a lot from them.

“As I was back home in east London for the summer break, I commuted into work. It wasn’t a problem though, as the journey only takes 45 minutes. I loved working there and just clicked with everyone. So, when they offered me a pre-registration place, I jumped at the chance.

Paying it forward

“After becoming qualified, I went back as a resident optometrist. Part of that decision is the commitment from the store partners to develop people’s clinical skills. I’ve gone on to complete the Minor Eye Conditions qualification and the Professional Certificate in Medical Retina, which they’ve funded. With their support, I want to do the Professional Certificate in Glaucoma next.

“Now, I’m supervising a pre-reg optometrist myself, guiding them through what’s involved and sharing my own experiences. I remember what it was like looking up to my supervisor. I want to be that person for someone else.;

“My plan is to be a store partner one day, which is why I’m getting more involved in management responsibilities. I’ve also enrolled onto the Specsavers Pathway to Partnership programme. Having my own business is a very exciting prospect.

“Recently, a patient I referred for retinal detachment surgery came in to thank me. He said my referral had saved his sight. It really brought home the difference I can make to people’s lives. That’s the biggest motivation in my career.”