A career shaped by experience- and instinct: Sara's story

A career shaped by experience- and instinct 

When Saraneeya Sivathas joined Specsavers as an Optical Assistant during her BioMed degree, she had no idea that a part-time job would spark a whole new career path. 

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do after uni,” she says. “But working in store gave me a real insight into optics. I saw the role in action every day- and I realised I could see myself doing it.” 

That early exposure to the clinical world, surrounded by Optometrists and pre-regs, helped her make the leap. She went on to study Optometry at the University of Hertfordshire, with plans to return to her local Specsavers store for her pre-reg. 

A change in plans 

Just as she was expecting an offer, things shifted. Her store had taken on several pre-regs already, and there wasn’t space for another. “They were honest with me. They said it could be a year’s wait. I couldn’t afford to wait that long.” So, Sara joined Vision Express for her pre-reg and qualified in January 2024. 

Exploring new ground 

After qualifying, Sara was approached by a recruiter for a domiciliary role with OutsideClinic. The opportunity to deliver eye care directly to patients in their homes really resonated-especially with her grandmother living with dementia. “I’d heard lots of different opinions about domiciliary work, so I decided to try it for myself.” 

The training was thorough and gave her a solid foundation. It was a new environment, and being out on the road brought fresh challenges and learning opportunities.  “It was a steep learning curve, especially being newly qualified. I was often working independently, which helped me build resilience and confidence quickly”.  

She found herself navigating complex dispensing conversations and working hard to meet patient needs- especially when affordability was a concern. “I wanted to make a difference, and I learned a lot about the realities of care in the community. It really shaped how I approach patient conversations now.” 

Finding her place again 

Sara had always stayed in touch with her former Specsavers colleagues, but she didn’t know Kasia at Specsavers Recruitment Services until Kasia reached out to her on LinkedIn. That initial message sparked a conversation, and as they got talking, Sara felt it was the perfect time to explore her next move. That’s when she discovered the opportunity with the Surrey home visits team. 

“After gaining experience in my previous role, I was fortunate to be presented with an exciting opportunity with Specsavers that aligned more closely with my professional goals and personal values. This transition has allowed me to further develop my skills in a role where I could continue to grow, feel supported, and make a meaningful impact." 
She admits she was initially a little apprehensive about the number of tests she’d be expected to do each day- especially compared to her previous role.  

“I’d heard it was a busy schedule, and I wasn’t sure how I’d manage. But once I got started, I realised how well everything is planned. The structure makes it manageable, and having a buddy really helps keep things flowing. It somehow feels easier having someone to bounce off and share the day with” 

From her very first week, she noticed how different things felt. The way clinics were organised, the pace of the day, and the support from her team- it all made a real difference. “I wasn’t spending hours stuck in traffic anymore. The scheduling just made sense, and I could focus on what mattered- my patients.” 

A better balance 

Since joining Specsavers Home Visits, Sara’s work-life balance has improved. “Some days I finish early, and I’m not stuck in traffic for hours. It’s a big change from driving into central London frequently.” 

She’s also enjoying the human connection that comes with the role. “You get to know your patients. You’re in their homes, having real conversations. It’s personal, and it’s powerful.” 

Looking ahead 

Sara’s already thinking about what comes next. Keen to keep building her clinical skills, she’s spoken to Kejal Shah, Ophthalmic Partner with the Surrey home visits team, about pursuing a medical retina qualification. “It’s reassuring to know the support is there when I’m ready. There’s no pressure- just encouragement.” 

She’s also become a bit of a champion for the team, referring a friend to join after sharing her own experience. “I told her, just try it. You won’t know if it’s right for you until you do. Don’t let other people’s opinions put you off.” 

For Sara, the difference has been the people and the structure around her. “What I love most is the support. You’re part of a team from day one, and the buddy system means you’re never on your own. It makes everything feel more connected and collaborative.”