The much needed winter break has ended, and as always I still
feel like I need another week - but then again who doesn't. Our
winter breaks are usually three weeks long and spring and summer
breaks last two weeks.
Office Environment
Three weeks was long enough for my husband and I to do some
business shopping. We had the chance to visit an acupuncturist in
Oak Park and a chiropractor. Each practitioner gave us different
advice but all very helpful. The office atmospheres were completely
different.
The acupuncture office was more exotic and peaceful but
professional, which I really liked. I think when a patient walks in
the door they should breathe a breath of relaxation, which I felt
was accomplished in that office. The chiropractic office was very
professional and big with lots of light. It was a typical medical
office environment and in my opinion not very relaxing.
After listening to both practitioners, it seemed they tailored
their environment to their patients' needs and expectations. For my
husband and I, it gave us a big clue as to what kind of environment
we should strive for.
Community Contacts
We also got a jump on the business ball by stopping into the
local Chamber of Commerce, which offered us much help, as well as
steered us in the direction of a reputable commercial real estate
agent. Even though we are looking a little early, I think it shows
our dedication and ambition as business owners to these individuals
(who could possibly be future patients). We also interviewed an
accountant who offered us loads of information free of
charge.
My advice to you, future students and possible business owners,
is to check out all of your business opportunities way in advance
of graduation. Talk to as many practitioners in the area in which
you are thinking of practicing because they can each give you
valuable information as well as warn you of any mistakes they have
made.
AOM Graduation
On another note, the Fall 2010 graduating class was the largest
so far for the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Program. Cherlyn,
one of our Oriental Medicine grads will be traveling to China in a
month or so. She will be attending the program set up by our
Hui Yan Dr. Cai. Cherlyn will be teaching English to students in
exchange for room and board as well as attending grand rounds in a
University Hospital in Xi'an. We have had two graduates enter the
program so far. I plan to stay in touch with Cherlyn to give
everyone details on her year-long trip.
Stay tuned for upcoming weeks in which I will be sharing details
of my lunch with a former graduate and the infertility seminar I
just attended.
Happy New Year!