In this article, we interviewed Joanne Cho, a young optometrist who found herself desiring more in her career than testing eyes. Join us as we meet Joanne and learn about her journey from optometrist to florist.

Hi Joanne! Could you please introduce yourself and tell us why you chose optometry as a career?

I’m Joanne, I have been an optom for 3 years now. I chose optometry because I felt like it was a stable career choice that would be rewarding and interesting.

Was there anything that surprised you when you started working as an optometrist?

I think the biggest surprise for me was how repetitive the job could be. Especially working in metro, where a lot of the tests were “general checkups” or “just wanting to use their health fund”.

What do you like doing outside of work?

I love arranging flowers and designing arrangements. I also like going to the gym.

What made you want to pursue floristry?

I have always wanted to do it since I was in high school, it was my dream job if “money didn’t matter”. And I feel like I have always been somewhat creative. I first decided to sign up for a Cert III in Floristry when I was feeling burnt out at work, mainly to try and give myself something to look forward to each week.

What does your typical week look like?

These days, I work part time in optometry. I work 2 days. Otherwise, during the week I have a few admin days where I reply to enquiries, plan/design flowers etc. I still get bouquet orders here and there so I will go to the flower market and make/deliver those as well. With wedding season starting up, I will go to the market on Friday morning, make the arrangements on Friday night, then head to a wedding on Saturday!

How do you balance both of your careers?

To help me balance my careers, I only work 2 days in optometry now. It also helps that with my flower business I get to choose my own hours and do work when I feel the most productive. I love how it also acts as a creative outlet for me, and I get paid to do it!

What advice would you give another young optometrist who is thinking of starting a side hustle?

I think now is a good a time as any, there is no such thing as a perfect time to do something. You just need to start and figure it out as you go! I feel like these days there are so many ways you can become successful. And worst comes to worst, it doesn’t go well? You still have that optometry degree!

Thank you Joanne Cho for a wonderful interview. If you ever need flower arrangements, be sure to check out Joanne's company @pulpflowerstudio on Instagram!