It’s not the destination, but the journey that matters. My journey in dentistry first began in high school when I witnessed my friends getting braces to correct their dental issues. Seeing the transformative power of a confident smile made me rethink my perception of dentistry. It dawned on me that dentistry wasn’t just about intimidating tooth drills and extractions, it might actually be an exciting and fulfilling career path.

You see, I’d always had this strong inclination from a young age to pursue healthcare.  This was greatly influenced by my personal experiences within my family, which sparked my initial desire to serve others. As an Asian and the only child in my family, I had my heart set on pursuing a career in medicine. However, my perspective shifted after completing my A levels, when I decided to shadow both a dentist and a medical doctor to gain better insights into both fields before taking that leap of commitment that would soon determine the course of my academic journey and future career. Through this shadowing experience, I had the chance to engage with individuals who had already walked the path I was about to embark on. This opportunity granted me valuable insights into both fields, which ultimately played a pivotal role in shaping my final decision. With that, a new chapter in life unfolds – the exciting journey into dental school began!

My life in dental school has been nothing short of remarkable. Five unforgettable years of blood sweat and tears honestly! It’s been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, a journey of grit, grins, and personal growth. Navigating through dental school was no easy feat. From countless nights of relentless studying to hours upon hours spent in the dental lab, honing our skills, to clinical hands-on training and developing essential soft skills for our patient interactions, it demands one’s unwavering determination, hard work, a resilient mindset and a supportive community.