“Participating in the summer student program at FYidoctors was an amazing hands-on and inspiring experience. I appreciated the flexibility to choose whether I wanted to work at the reception or the dispensary, allowing me to tailor the program to my interests and refine any skills that I wanted to improve. Guest speakers, including experienced doctors with special interests, provided us with insightful presentations each week that broadened and deepened my understanding of the field. This program truly offered a customizable and enriching experience that has left me more excited for my future career.”
~ Sandra Nguyen, 2nd year Optometry student at University of Waterloo, School of Optometry and Vision Science
FYihealth group has had a very successful summer student year in 2024, welcoming a total of 80 students to its FYidoctors, Visique, BonLook and solis optics practices across Canada through its Summer Student Program. Students in various years of their optometry studies attended a customized program tailored to their areas of interest, including mentorship from practicing optometrists, hands-on experience performing patient pre-tests and exams, and a look into the clinics’ business operations.
“This year, we’ve welcomed our largest cohort of student optometrists ever in our organization’s history,” shares Harneet Gill, Senior Director of Talent Acquisitions for FYihealth group, “Over these last few weeks of summer, I have heard so many amazing stories from our clinics about this group of optometry students and I do hope we get the chance to welcome them back as fully licenced and practicing doctors after graduation!”
“In optometry school, many different individuals and companies speak to students with offers, programs, and messages. However, none were more hyped up within the student body than the FYidoctors Summer Student Program, thanks to the great experiences of past students to partake. Now nearing the end of my own experience in this program, I can absolutely see why my colleagues were so enthusiastic. I have worked many jobs, but none have come close to being so educational, relevant for my future career, and focused on providing a great experience at the workplace. My only regret is not jumping on this opportunity a year earlier!”
~Jeremiah Hyslop, 2nd year Optometry student at University of Waterloo, School of Optometry and Vision Science.
The Summer Student Programs offered by FYihealth group are highly competitive and sought-after positions for young optometrists-in-training, hailing from Universities across the US and Canada.
“The Summer Student Program has been instrumental in fostering connection and collaboration with future leaders in optometry. The mutual benefit that this program offers can only be described as incredible,” says Dr. Ryan Hogan, FYidoctors Optometrist and Advisory Committee Campus Ambassador. “Opportunity comes from both angles as students are able to learn from established doctors while current optometrists can source new talent to join their practices. All of our summer students have joined the FYidoctors family after graduation and this program helps ensure continued success in the field of optometry.”
“The FYidoctors Summer Student Program gave me the opportunity to enhance my clinical skills, particularly with patient communication and the use of diagnostic tools like the OCT and Humphrey Visual Field. It was valuable to shadow ODs during complex eye exams as well as having the opportunity to practice the skills I had learned in school like retinoscopy and refraction. The discussions I had with the seasoned professionals at a rural clinic not only boosted my confidence in my skills but also deepened my understanding of the importance of trust in the patient-doctor relationship. The advice and mentoring I received this summer led to an invaluable learning experience.”
~ Brett Corner, 1st year student at New England College of Optometry (NECO)
Founded in 2008 by a small group of optometrists, FYihealth group’s structure and operations is based on the essential belief that doctors need to be at the center of all eye care health and vision solutions, and that patients deserve access to the best technology, doctor care, and experience. Today, FYihealth group is Canada’s leading diversified healthcare organization with over 650 optometrists serving over 370 locations coast to coast.
Named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for five consecutive years, Canada’s Top Growing Companies for two years in a row, and recently certified a Great Place to Work® for the second year, team members credit the company’s success to its dedication to its people and their communities. The organization looks forward to continuing its growth, not only through its student programs, but by welcoming experienced doctors to the team as well.
FYihealth group is a strong supporter of the growth of future optometrists as exemplified by its $5 million donation in 2023 to help build the Waterloo Eye Institute, officially breaking ground to begin construction earlier this year in June. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without optometry,” explains Dr. Alan Ulsifer, Chair & CEO of FYihealth group, “Being able to give back to the place that I owe my profession to is not only a privilege but almost like a professional obligation. As optometrists, we should not be competing against one another, but working together to bring the best eye care possible to the public and finding the best solutions for their eye health needs.”
“I had an amazing experience participating in the FYidoctors Summer Student Program after my first year of optometry school. It was a fantastic opportunity to work in a clinic, observe the patient pathway, and apply what I learned in school into what I was learning in clinic. Because there are many FYidoctors locations across Canada, I am fortunate to be able to work and provide care to patients within my community. I was also able to connect with optometrists in my clinic. During the program, I was able to work and shadow the doctors, opticians, pre-screen, and front desk staff. I was also able to meet and learn from other doctors and peers in the program through weekly lunch hour socials and presentations. It is a truly rewarding and enriching 3-month experience interacting with patients and learning more about optometry!”
~ Emily Chan, 2nd year Optometry student at Pacific University, College of Optometry.
FYihealth group wishes all its summer students the best in their next year of studies!
To learn more about FYihealth group’s Summer Student Programs, please visit https://fyihealthgroup.com/careers/ or contact Michelle Melynk at Michelle.Melnyk@fyidoctors.com
Michelle Melnyk
With over a decade of dedicated service, Michelle Melnyk has been proud to have influence across various roles in Talent Aquisition. At FYidoctors, she began as the Optometrist Recruiter for the Ontario region, and soon after, stepped into her current role as Manager of Campus Engagement. Her journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Mount Royal University with a minor in Human Resources, where she developed an understanding of human behavior and organizational dynamics. Beyond her professional endeavors, Michelle is known for her advocacy for work-life balance and her passion for family, plants, and travel. With her background and dedication, Michelle continues to shape the careers of individuals while making meaningful contributions to the field of talent management.
