Why Study Dentistry?
Job Stability and Demand: The demand for dental services is generally stable, and oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health. Dentists often experience job stability and demand for their services. This can provide a sense of security and steady employment opportunities throughout your career.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Many dentists have the option to open their own practices, providing an entrepreneurial aspect to the profession. Owning a dental practice allows you to have more control over your work environment and business decisions.
Building Relationships with Patients: Dentists often develop long-term relationships with their patients. This aspect of the profession allows you to get to know individuals and families, making a positive impact on the lives of those you serve.
Continuous Learning and Advancements: Dentistry is a dynamic field with ongoing advancements in technology, materials, and treatment methods. If you enjoy continuous learning and staying updated with the latest developments, dentistry is a fantastic opportunity.
Autonomy and Business: Dentists often have the opportunity to run their own practices, giving them a high level of professional autonomy. If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, owning and managing your dental practice can be a rewarding aspect of a career in dentistry.
Helping People Improve Their Oral Health: Dentistry provides an opportunity to make a direct and positive impact on people's lives by helping them achieve and maintain good oral health. Your work as a dentist can contribute to preventing and treating various dental issues, improving overall well-being.
Amos Bursary - Supporting people of African and Caribbean descent have the opportunity to excel in education and beyond.
Sutton Trust - Helping everyone achieve their potential regardless of their socioeconomic status.
UNIQ - Oxford’s access programme for state school students.
Social Mobility Programme - Creating opportunities and unlocking potential.
Target Oxbridge - Identifying and helping talented black students.
Next Step Bristol - Supporting disadvantaged black and Asian students.
Programs to boost your application
What can I write about in my dentistry personal statement?
In your dentistry personal statement for UK admissions, showcasing early work experiences as a young adult (16-18) is pivotal in revealing your genuine enthusiasm for a dental career.
Consider discussing experiences such as:
Shadowing Dental Professionals: Although not a formal job, shadowing dentists or dental assistants provides firsthand insights into dental care, clinical environments, and the interdisciplinary nature of oral healthcare teams.
Volunteering at Local Dental Clinics: Many dental facilities offer volunteer opportunities for teenagers. You might have assisted in administrative tasks, interacted with patients, or helped with dental health awareness campaigns.
Community Oral Health Initiatives: Volunteering with organizations promoting oral health education, especially in schools or local events, underlines your interest in preventive dentistry and community well-being.
First Aid and Emergency Training: Completing first aid and emergency response courses, even as a volunteer, reveals your readiness to handle urgent situations, a critical aspect of dental practice.
MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses): Undertaking relevant online courses demonstrates your proactive learning and commitment to staying updated with dental knowledge. For example, I completed a MOOC on dental anatomy to expand my foundational understanding.
Dental Literature: Reading dental books and journals, such as "Clinical Dentistry" or "The Journal of Dental Research," shows your dedication to academic growth beyond traditional coursework.
Assisting in Dental Research: Opportunities to assist in dental research projects or internships in research-focused institutions deepen your understanding of dental science and its practical applications.
By presenting these early dental-related experiences, you highlight your proactive involvement, dedication, and hands-on exposure, creating a compelling case for your readiness to embark on a successful dental journey in the UK. These experiences not only demonstrate your passion but also underscore your commitment to dental activities, making your candidacy more appealing to admission officers.
