Personal Statement For Dentistry

My aspiration to pursue a career in dentistry was borne out of an interest in dental health matters and a desire to improve a patient's quality of life, both from a clinical and psychological aspect. In alleviating pain to improve a patient's self-esteem through good oral health, I believe a distinguishing feature in an outstanding dentist is the possession of manual dexterity and the ability to incorporate strong interpersonal skills through high-quality patient care. I have always admired the altruism of dentists who strive to work uncompromisingly in their patients' best interest.
I furthered my interest in dentistry by gaining a two week work experience at Tam Dental Health. During this attachment, I shadowed a dentist carrying out complex procedures such as bridging, partial and complete denture repair, and tooth crowning. This increased my awareness of the dexterity and technical training needed to perform dental procedures
at a high-functioning level.
I came to understand that the unique relationship which a dentist forges with each individual patient is founded firmly on good dentist-patient interaction.
Upon witnessing the dentist diagnose oral disorders and devote his time to educate patients on the maintenance of good oral health, I realised that life in a dental career can be immensely gratifying. Moreover, seeing dentist and nurses working hand-in-hand impressed on me the importance of teamwork in ensuring efficient provision of patient care. This experience helped cement my decision to pursue dentistry as a career and showed me that dentistry is a multi-faceted career which requires a person who is well-rounded in many aspects.
I am studying A-Levels Physics and Chemistry, which have helped me develop an aptitude for learning and understanding scientific principles and knowledge. Studying Biology also gives me a fundamental understanding of complex biological systems. Mathematics has helped train my logical reasoning and analytical skills which are essential during
decision-making.
Apart from academia, I have represented numerous sports teams at a competitive level, including basketball, netball and track and field teams. I am eager to continue pursuing these interests at university. Being an athlete has increased my self-confidence, communication and teamwork skills. I have learnt to trust the support of others in times of need, which to me reflects the reliance of a dentist on the assistance of a nurse. As an active member of the school community, my personal involvement in activities ranging from singing to drama has taught me to break out of my comfort zone and exceed expectations, preparing me for the challenges to come while studying for dentistry.
Finally, I have learnt a great deal about patience and tolerance in working alongside others as a senior prefect, treasurer of Interact Club and committee member of Science Invention Society. I relish shouldering many responsibilities which allows me to develop time management and organisational skills by balancing my school-life and social life. Outside of curricular activities, I also play the piano, which is essential to developing manual dexterity skills and good hand-eye coordination. Regarding community service, I have performed voluntary work for the Malaysian Association for the Blind by providing companionship and assisting the blind in their daily tasks, and learnt to empathize with the visually-impaired. In addition, I assisted teachers in conducting group tutoring for six-year-olds and seven-year-olds at the Kiwanis Down's Syndrome Foundation in helping the children to develop essential life skills. Through my volunteering, I have achieved a sense of satisfaction, knowing my companionship was cherished, and I hope to replicate this in healthcare.
In a nutshell, my life experiences thus far served to reinforce my interest in dentistry, and I am prepared to devote the rest of my life to the study of dentistry.