Warrick Yu, DMD 2005, started his career journey in chemistry before pivoting to dentistry. We connected with Dr. Yu to learn about his time at UBC Dentistry and his passion for the profession.
What inspired you to go into dentistry?
My dentist! I did my undergraduate combined honours degree in chemistry and biochemistry and was doing my Master’s in chemistry but found it a bit boring—I didn’t love sitting at a lab bench all day by myself witnessing some explosions. My dentist suggested I try dentistry, and I liked the idea of working with my hands and with people, so I decided to apply. His influence changed my entire course in life!
Do you have a favourite memory of your time spent at UBC Dentistry?
I took part in an exchange program between UBC Dentistry and Nippon Dental University in Japan, which was a highlight for me. I participated twice, so I went to Tokyo and Niigata, and hosted the Japanese dental students in Vancouver. I loved making friends outside of Canada and exploring a different part of the world.
Where did your career take you?
I worked at a practice in Surrey for a few years after graduation before moving to Grande Prairie, Alberta, where I learned a lot and was exposed to many different dental needs. I then moved to Hinton, a small town in the Alberta Rockies, where I bought a practice. It was around this time that my wife had our son, and after working hard at the practice for four years, we decided to make Vancouver our home again, so I sold the practice and returned in 2017.
I started working at a not-for-profit clinic in Vernon two days a week, which was quite the commute! Once the global pandemic hit, I decided to stay local. I currently work at the Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society clinic and once a week with my dentist—the one who inspired me to go into dentistry—which feels like a full-circle moment!
What is your favourite part of being a dentist?
Having the opportunity to change someone’s life in a positive way and the sense of achievement that comes with that.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Don’t be afraid to explore! There’s so much out there and a lot of exciting opportunities as long as you’re willing to try something new.
What are some of your interests outside of dentistry?
I enjoy spending time with my 11-year-old son, and I also love to travel. Some of my favourite places are smaller and less touristy, like Liechtenstein, Bhutan, Suriname and Yakutia.