Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Gloria Chiu, an experienced optometrist in a hospital-based setting. They discuss Dr. Chiu's journey into optometry, her passion for specialty contact lenses, and the importance of networking and mentorship in building a successful career. Dr. Chiu shares insights on demonstrating value in the profession, advocating for dry eye awareness, and her aspirations for the future. The conversation emphasizes the significance of persistence, learning from failures, and the impact of community involvement in shaping a fulfilling career in optometry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gloria Chiu

04:05 Journey into Optometry: Early Inspirations

06:54 Education and Research: The Path to Residency

10:02 Overcoming Rejection: The Power of Persistence

12:50 Specialty Contact Lenses: A Passion Unfolds

15:28 Building a Career: From Residency to First Job

19:40 Establishing a New Clinic: Challenges and Triumphs

23:37 Demonstrating Value: Billing and Patient Care

27:36 Advocacy and Community Engagement

31:10 Future Aspirations: Goals and Reflections

Takeaways

• Dr. Gloria Chiu has been in her position for 16 years, showcasing career stability.
• Her journey into optometry began in high school due to her own vision issues.
• Networking and mentorship played a crucial role in her career advancement.
• She emphasizes the importance of understanding billing and coding in optometry.
• Dr. Chiu advocates for dry eye awareness and research funding.
• She believes in the value of persistence and learning from failures.
• Her experience highlights the importance of patient care and building relationships.
• Dr. Chiu encourages new graduates to track their contributions and value.
• She aims to become a professor of ophthalmology in the next five years.
• Advocacy and community involvement are key components of her professional life.