"My leap to Oban" - Chloe's relocation journey

When Chloe Bond graduated in 2023, she thought she had her next steps mapped out. She’d completed her pre-reg at a Specsavers store near Glasgow and expected to stay on. But just weeks after qualifying, she learned there wasn’t a permanent role available.

An opportunity, not an obstacle

"It was a shock," she admits. "Within about three weeks, I’d gone from thinking I’d stay put to planning a move across Scotland." Rather than see it as a setback, Chloe saw an opportunity. "I thought, why not go as far away from the central belt as possible? I wanted a change of scenery more than anything else."

Her directors shared her details with other stores, and soon Chloe had options. She interviewed at several, but one stood out: Oban. "Fiona, the director, was so welcoming. After my interview, she kept sending me pictures of beaches saying, ‘Can you imagine yourself here?’ It worked!"

Within weeks, Chloe had packed up, found a dog-friendly flat, and moved two and a half hours from home.

Settling in

Moving wasn’t without nerves. "It was intimidating being so far from friends and family, but the team here has been amazing. Fiona and Ryan have always checked in on me- they really care about your wellbeing." And Oban itself? "It’s gorgeous. My dog loves it. Everyone’s friendly, and it’s so safe!”

A different kind of challenge

Life as an optometrist in Oban is very different from the central belt. "We’re two hours from the nearest hospital with emergency eye care services, so you really have to rely on yourself. It’s boosted my confidence and decision-making massively." That independence inspired Chloe to start her Independent Prescribing qualification as soon as she could. "We rely on it heavily here, so I jumped in at the first opportunity."

Making a difference

For Chloe, the most rewarding part is the sense of community. "The population here is about 8,000, so you know everyone. When you help someone avoid a trip to A&E, they’re so grateful. You feel like you’re making a real difference- not just a cog in the machine."

Looking ahead

Chloe isn’t sure where she’ll be in five years, but she knows one thing: "I used to think I’d settle in one place forever, but now I know moving is doable. For now, I’m focused on clinical development- but who knows what’s next?"

Her advice for anyone considering a move? "Specsavers offers so many opportunities for development. No two stores are the same, and if you’re interested in growing, they’ll support you. Honestly, it can change the course of your life."