Dentistry Personal Statement Example 8

Raised by a specialist ENT doctor, I always had a predisposed idea as to the type of profession I would pursue. Observing my father at work and witnessing the close relationships he created with his patients while diagnosing and reassuring them, has influenced my decision to read dentistry in university.

My A-level courses reflect my passion, while consolidating, and supporting my motivation for the dentistry profession, as each subject has taught me essential skills in preparation for the challenges of university and dentistry degree. Mathematics has helped with my problem solving, logical thinking, and time management skills, whilst biology and chemistry have helped further my interest and develop my analytical skills.

Having enjoyed the practical aspects of my biology and chemistry lessons, my decision to read dentistry in university was reinforced.

Tutoring children aged 7-13 has enabled me to develop my commitment, endurance, and communication skills. Although initially challenging, I provided emotional and intellectual support to pupils, helping them to successfully progress within their subjects. I am privileged to have learned useful new skills from this tremendously gratifying work-placement.

My experience in retail orientates towards customer service and has taught me excellent communication, time management, organisational skills, and how to remain calm during periods of high pressure. These, I believe are fundamental skills essential for a career in dentistry.

Currently, I am about to commence a two-week work placement in a dental practice, which will give me the opportunity to observe the construction of veneers, bridges, and crowns, expectantly leading to more complex procedures of endodontic, dental implants, tooth whitening and bonding. I am looking forward to the challenges of this complicated, yet strengthening role, as I believe this experience will demonstrate the versatility of a dentistry career. Being a mentally challenging hands-on profession, I understand that success in this field is highly dependent on good dentist-patient interactions and mutual understanding with other staff.

Outside academia, I enjoy reading a variety of books and articles. As an avid reader of bracesinfo.com and the dentistry section from medicalnewstoday.com my awareness of dentistry and related aspects are kept up-to-date, while gaining acquaintance with dental terminologies. I have a huge enthusiasm for languages, and am currently in the process of teaching myself German from various cassettes and internet programmes, hoping to proceed further to GCSE standard sometime in the future.

Participating in the after-school basketball and tennis programmes has led to my continued involvement in these sports, which I have found to be a useful ingredient for character building, whilst enhancing my determination, concentration, self-discipline, and teamwork skills. I have also taken part in school drama productions such as 'Black History Month' and 'Peer Pressure', which improved my confidence in public speaking.

Through my extra-curriculum activities and prior experiences, I have maintained an unwavering approach to dentistry as a profession. Aware of its demands and endless study of information about recent breakthroughs, I believe I possess the necessary skills required to be a successful student of dentistry.