What first piqued your interest in dentistry?

I completed my undergraduate degree in nanotechnology engineering at the University of Waterloo and then went into a PhD program. I liked the teaching component of graduate school, but the actual research was very isolating.

A few years into the program, I took some time off to reassess. After talking with friends, I decided dentistry might be a good fit for me. I like how I can directly interact with people and see the impact I’m making. As it turns out, the materials aspect and some of the immunology I studied as part of my PhD are relevant to dentistry.

How have you gotten involved in the program?

I joined the Dental Undergraduate Society (DUS) in my first year as the class representative, and this year I’m DUS President. I started dental school as an older student, so I was worried about meeting people and getting involved. What I love about the DUS is it gives people the opportunity to get to know one another and feel like part of a community. As President, it also feels nice to give back—when I was a junior student, the older students provided a lot of guidance, and I want to make sure incoming students continue to have this experience.

What are you most looking forward to after graduation?

I’m excited to spend more time in a clinical setting. I spent the summer being mentored by dentists in Prince George, Vancouver and Fort St. John as part of the Summer Student Practitioner Program, which laid a great foundation for the skills I’ll further develop in fourth-year.

After graduation, I’m hoping to jump into work at a dental practice—after many years in school, it will be a nice change to be on the right side of the balance sheet!

What advice would you give to current students?

Everyone is unique and has their strengths and areas for improvement. Don’t compare yourself to others. Seek improvement and growth on your own terms.