Business Management Immersion Program (BMIP)
The Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science’s Business Management Immersion Program (BMIP) started in 2016 with 8 students fully immersing themselves in the world of private practice for two days. Thanks to VSP Vision’s support of this program, we’ve grown our participants and look forward to having over 20 students participating this year. We’ve also expanded our reach to Southern California.
Over the course of the program, students get acquainted with the professional tasks of joining a practice and learn how to integrate their clinical training into private practice. Additionally, students gain access and knowledge of private practice resources by highlighting successful business practice models, giving students the appreciation and understanding that running a successful business will be integral to their success as practitioners.
Participating Practices
Practices that have participated in the past include:
- Brookside Optometric Group
- Coastal Vision
- Golden Optometry Group – West Covina and Southgate
- Grant Optometric Group
- Invision Optometry
- Mountain View Optometry
- Rockridge Optometry
- Silicon Valley Eyecare
Student Testimonials
“I really appreciated how Dr. Edna Lee tailored the topics she discussed to what we listed on the questionnaire. She would always encourage questions, and I appreciate that she touched base with us throughout the day as we were talking to different staff members to make sure we were gaining the learning/exposure that we wanted.” –3rd Year Student
“My experience with Gracie and Dr. Vanover at Brookside Optometric Group went far beyond my expectations. Rarely, if ever, have I talked with an OD in depth about HOW they started their private practice. Gracie also took the time to cater the day to what we were interested in, and left plenty of time for open ended conversation. I’m sad to have discovered this program so late in my training (otherwise I would’ve loved to visit more practices).” –2nd Year Student
Doctor Testimonials
“I am encouraged by the enthusiasm and preparedness of the students. The future of optometry looks bright!” – BMIP 2023 Doctor Host
“I would ask that those students that attended be able to relay their impressions to other students who might not think that the program is worth their time. I think my students were somewhat surprised how much they got out of the program.” – BMIP 2023 Doctor Host
“Great program, would love to host again next year.” – BMIP 2023 Doctor Host
Contact
If you have any questions about the BMIP program, please contact the Admissions and Student Affairs Office at optometry-admissions@berkeley.edu.