My dream to become a dentist is rooted in the passion I have for the profession as well as my attitude and abilities to become a dentist. I have had an experience of an infected molar and thus understand what it means to have some infected teeth. The interaction I had with the dentist while my molar was being replaced can be described as beautiful. I was worried more especially because I was informed that my molar was to be replaced. Seemingly the dentist saw my fear and set in interact with me in a calm manner that got me finally calmed me down. This interaction I had with the dentist, Dr. Nguyen, sparked a passion in my heart to pursue dentistry. Since this incident took place, I have systematically worked towards becoming a dentist by strategically placing myself in learning positions and at other times developing some qualities which are inborn to fit the dentistry profession as I have further explained below.
I have a strong belief that I will become a great dentist. This is because of the passion I have for the profession. I am delighted to help those who are in pain whether the pains originate from the teeth or from elsewhere; for instance, I have participated in fundraising on behalf of cancer patients through the American Cancer Association, an experience I found to be quite fulfilling. In the course of fundraising on behalf of the cancer victims, I had to ensure that there was a connection between those who were inflicted with cancer and those who were not. This created cancer awareness in the general public and I found this to be quite fulfilling to my heart.
I have gotten engaged in a number of activities that have helped me to better understand the dentistry profession. I have worked under the supervision of a number of dentists and learned a great deal about dentistry. I have appreciated each new skill I learn and observe. Working under Dr. Chang I learned and appreciated the concept of science and how it applies in real-world situations. The research association I had with Dr. Chang helped me to practice scientific reasoning and in turn made evidence-based reasoning and decisions; a principle advocated by the practice of good medicine.
The experience I had through the Creative Campus Program at the University of Florida further sharpened my precision ability. I concur with the Director of the program that there is a close relationship between the dentistry profession and the arts. For instance, a dentist must make a correct choice of color when replacing a tooth. Through the Campus Creative Program, I was able to experience different arts subjects which sharpened my social skills and ability to view issues from an artistic point of view. I believe these artistic skills will help me to develop into a flexible dentist.
While working as a volunteer at Endodontics, I had firsthand experience in some of the dentistry processes. I got involved in the preparation of sets of dental probes, handling of saliva ejectors and air/water syringes. I was in charge of sterilizing the equipment. While working under this volunteer project, I realized that removing infected contents from teeth canal called for precision and a good level of imagination. The dentist I was working under would for example curve his file to fit well in the canal of a tooth and scrub off any infected content. I have a keen eye for arts and precision and I believe that this will go a long way to assist me in the precision that is required in dentistry.
I have learned to appreciate the role that interpersonal skills play in dentistry. I have noted that warm interaction with the patients plays a very significant role in calming them down especially when they are wary of the whole process. I have learned to listen to the patients and make correct observations concerning the attitudes they have formed. I have found this to be significant as it helps the dentist to prepare the patient by assuring him or her in regard to the whole process.
I know that dentistry is a lifelong commitment and I am fully convinced that I am ready to walk this path as it adds a lot of pleasure and joy to my life. The conviction is first and foremost within my heart and other significant professionals whom I have worked with have confirmed this to me. I had a nice time working under Vairo who has already confided in me my ability and enthusiasm to become a dentist. I have the passion to learn and become a dentist. I am aware that nothing comes easy but I believe that the love and passion I have within my heart to pursue dentistry will make it possible for me to successfully pursue a career in dentistry. I believe that my application will be affirmed and thus the path to fulfilling my dream launched.