While I was studying at a coffee shop, I happened to meet a dentist. After chatting for a bit about his experiences in private practice and public health, I asked him if he had any advice for a current dental student without hesitation, He said, “Important to have a mentor who is willing to teach and guide you.”
Out of the many relationships that are created and maintained in the dental world, I believe that mentorship is one of the most vital and rewarding. A mentor can teach and provide insight to the mentee that isn’t found in the classroom or a group setting. Having someone who is already doing what you’re working toward is beneficial throughout your journey. This one-on-one relationship allows the mentor to provide personalized advice for their specific questions or worries.
When I was in high school, I was extremely fortunate to have met a dental student. Even with her tight schedule, she never hesitated to share her experiences as a student. She told me about her passion for dentistry and her struggles in school. When I started college, she suggested I consider dentistry as a career, and I will forever be thankful for her encouragement. A few years later, I am now a dental student and she is a practicing dentist. Recently, we met up for dinner, and I told her about the difficulties and stressors of dental school. Just like before, she was willing to listen and reassure me t hat it is all worth it in the end. All the challenges you encounter in dental school push you to be a successful dentist. Beyond that, she helped motivate me to become a better student, ensuring I will become a better dentist in the future.
This ongoing relationship is one that I cherish. I strongly recommend finding a mentor and asking for their advice. Their experiences are resources that aid you in becoming the best version of yourself. ASDA has valuable resources about how to approach a potential mentor on the website.
Lastly, I encourage mentees to pay if forward and become mentors to others. Everyone has something valuable to share. You and your daily experiences as a dental student may shed some light on the process for others who will follow. Filled with inspiration from my mentor, I met with my first predental mentee in the same coffee shop where I’d met the dentist who would become a mentor to me. I hope to continue offering guidance to other students in the future. Mentorship is a valuable system with the potential to share a tremendous amount of insight and knowledge. I encourage all of you, If you haven’t already, to find a mentor to reach out to.
