Medicine is often seen as a straight path—but for many physicians, that path can branch into unexpected opportunities. Leadership roles, research, and industry partnerships offer new ways to make an impact while building on your clinical expertise. At Lucens, we believe that exploring non-traditional career paths can be incredibly rewarding if approached with curiosity and a collaborative mindset.

This week, we spoke with Justine Siergey, OD who transitioned from clinical practice to a full-time role in industry. Here’s her story and her advice for others considering a similar shift.

Question:

I’ve been wondering—what’s it really like for doctors who step away from clinical care? How do they find new opportunities and figure out what’s next?
– A.M., Ohio

Justine:

Moving into industry wasn’t something I planned—it’s not like I woke up one day and decided to leave clinical care. What happened instead was that, over time, I began to notice the parts of my work that really energized me. For me, it was the opportunities to collaborate, to lead, and to share insights that made a difference on a broader scale.

People often ask me, “How do I even start in industry? How do I get those kinds of roles?” And the answer is always the same: it begins with seeing industry as a collaboration.

Think about it—when a sales rep comes into your office, they’re not just there to drop off samples or pitch you a product. They’re bringing education, expertise, and insights into the tools and treatments you use every day. If you take the time to engage, to ask questions, and to share your perspective as a clinician, you’re creating the foundation for a meaningful relationship.

That’s exactly how it started for me. I didn’t jump straight into a leadership role. It began with smaller interactions, like offering feedback or participating in a pilot program. Those early collaborations opened doors to clinical trials, speaking engagements, and eventually a full-time opportunity in industry. The key was building relationships over time and staying open to new possibilities.

If you’re considering a similar path, I’d say start small. Don’t feel like you need to make a big leap overnight. Try participating in a research project, joining a committee, or accepting an invitation to speak at an event. These are low-pressure ways to test the waters and see what resonates with you.

Another thing to keep in mind is that authenticity goes a long way. When you approach a new opportunity, think about how you can create value for the other person. Instead of focusing on what you need, ask yourself, “How can I help?” That mindset is what turns a one-off interaction into a partnership that can grow over time.

And don’t forget to stay curious. Exploring an alternative career path often means learning about areas you may not be familiar with, whether it’s business, leadership, or new technologies. Be willing to invest in that learning—it’s what will make you stand out.

Above all, remember that medicine is a small world. The relationships you build, whether with mentors, peers, or industry reps, can have a huge impact on your career. So take the time to nurture those connections—they’re often the key to unexpected opportunities.

The Bottom Line

Choosing an alternative career path doesn’t mean leaving medicine behind—it’s about finding a new way to contribute. By staying curious, building authentic relationships, and starting small, you can uncover opportunities that align with your skills and passions.

Have you considered stepping outside traditional medicine?

We’d love to hear your story—or your questions. Share them with us here, and let’s continue the conversation.

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