Young Professional Q&A: Bibin Cherian

A proud Golden Year of Optometry graduate, Dr. Bibin Cherian loves working with the team at Bespoke Vision to help patients see the world. As a doctor of optometry, he cherishes the relationships he gets to build with his patients as he serves the Edmond community. 

Q: Do you live in Edmond, work in Edmond, or both?

A: My wife and I just moved to Edmond in August of this year.

Q: Where did you grow up and go to school?

A: I grew up in Yukon, Oklahoma, and graduated from Mustang High School. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Biology at UCO and then my Doctorate degree from NSUOCO in Tahlequah. 

Q: What did you do prior to getting involved with Bespoke Vision?

A: I briefly worked at Long John Silver’s/A&W, GAP Factory at the Outlets, and at the Biltmore Hotel in OKC through undergrad. During optometry school, I worked a summer at EyeCare Associates of Yukon. After graduation, I did my Ocular Disease and Refractive Surgery residency at BVA and nJoy Vision here in Oklahoma City.

Q: How did you get involved with Bespoke Vision?

A: As some people in undergrad can relate, I had an interest in the healthcare profession but didn’t know where I wanted to end up. Since I was considering optometry, I looked up a list of eye doctors near me to shadow, and one happened to be within walking distance from my apartment. That is when I met Dr. McGee at the office (then called Precision Vision).

We kept in touch throughout my years in optometry school and shared similar interests in being involved and active in the profession. Post-residency, I joined the BeSpoke Vision team. It’s been a neat experience to see things come full circle from shadowing then to now providing care at this office.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: The most rewarding aspect of my job is serving patients and building relationships. I am honored that patients trust me to take care of their eyes, and I don’t take that responsibility lightly. Even if I don’t have all the answers, I will make every effort to find the solutions that work best for them.

It is a privilege to hold lenses up to a child’s eyes for the first time and see the look of excitement; to have a patient with corneal disease cry in the chair after being fit with a scleral lens that corrects his vision; to hear the story of a patient finally getting relief after years of struggling with her dry eye symptoms. These moments are so meaningful and motivate me to continue learning to better serve my patients.

The other aspect I love is the culture and camaraderie of the team I work with. Everyone consistently demonstrates a willingness to support each other and our patients. There is a commitment to embody our core values and live out our goal of providing patients a truly bespoke experience tailored to their needs.

Q: What’s something you’re passionate about in your personal life?

A:  My wife and I enjoy traveling and have a goal to visit all 50 states together. We have a photo map that she got us for our anniversary, and we’ve been to 17 states since then. I also enjoy playing basketball and watching sports in general. Most of our leisure goes to spending time together with family or friends- eating at the newest restaurants, playing strategic board games, or watching the latest movies. 

Professionally, I stay involved within our state association and also serve on the national AOAExcel Board. I enjoy actively contributing to the profession, both as a way to give back but also to stay informed on the latest research for best patient care. 

Q: What do you like about Edmond?

A: I was fortunate to participate in Leadership Edmond Class 37 last year and gained valuable insights into the intricate workings of city management. Edmond and its leadership are proactive in addressing current issues impacting residents while maintaining a balance between necessary growth and future development.

The city consistently introduces new events each month, and there are numerous hidden gems to explore. I am thrilled to now reside in Edmond, and I’m proud to call it home!

Q: What is your number one tip for other young professionals?

A: Always continue learning and expanding your network. Aim to make a positive impact in the lives of others. As Les Brown says, “Help others achieve their dreams, and you will achieve yours.” Given the finite time we all have, embrace and fulfill the purpose you were made for while creating lasting memories with your family and friends.