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FINDING MENTORSHIP IN THE DENTAL PROFESSION Amanda Toulme, Associate Editor; Class of 2019, VCU School of Dentistry As a dental student halfway through my third year at VCU School of Dentistry, I have grown more and more comfortable with and excited about working with patients in clinic. Now that my classmates and I are treating patients full-time, we have quickly gained knowledge beyond what we studied in textbooks – we now attempt to apply everything that we have learned in our preclinical years to treating patients who often have high expectations of us. Although our peers, fourth year dental students, and faculty are incredibly helpful, sometimes students are in need of advice and assistance on a big-picture scale. In these instances, finding a mentor within dentistry is paramount for a dental student’s professional path. Many students are lucky to have grown up with a parent or family member who is a dentist, who perhaps has built a practice that a dental student can learn from or join in the future. However, there are also other students, like myself, who do not have any family members within the dental profession. Although VCU prepares us extremely well with clinical knowledge, we still need mentorship from seasoned dentists to answer our questions about both clinical dentistry and the business side of our profession. Luckily, we do have a helpful Practice Management course for third years and fourth years, in which guest speakers come and discuss important topics concerning associateships, practice acquisitions, and debt management.
Despite the resources our classes provide, students like myself are looking for mentors in dentistry. Sometimes, we find mentors within our practice groups in clinic. Although a student may be more comfortable with working with the same faculty for difficult procedures, I have learned that it is best to branch out and learn from anyone who is available, because each clinical faculty member has different insights into the task at hand. Our faculty are eager to help us and to also discuss with us greater issues within the profession. Beyond our resources within school, dental students can find mentorship within organized dentistry. A few weeks ago, I attended the Richmond Dental Society meeting. At the meeting, I was able to meet both new graduates and experienced dentists. Many of the dentists present were happy to talk to dental students and answer our questions about the world beyond dental school. Attending events such as dental society meetings is an excellent way to find a mentor. The Virginia Dental Association provides opportunities for dental students to get involved with organized dentistry and make connections for mentorship. One opportunity that takes place every year is “Day on the Hill”. On January 19, 2018, dentists and dental students met with each other, local legislators, and lobbyists. Dental students enjoyed the opportunity to learn about upcoming legislation that may significantly
affect our profession. Dentists involved with organized dentistry are incredible resources, because they are aware of how our field is constantly changing. Another opportunity to find mentorship and advice for dental students and new graduates is the VDA New Dentist Conference on March 2nd-3rd, 2018, in Charlottesville. At the New Dentist Conference, attendees can engage in networking and participate in seminars about succeeding in private practice. Events such as these are fantastic ways to find mentorship and gain valuable information for life after dental school. Although the future after graduation may seem intimidating, dental students should remember that many of our fellow dentists are happy to relay their experiences to us. The dentists that have gone before us were dental students once too, and the ones that I have spoken to would love to extend their help to us. Ultimately, dental students need to take advantage of the resources at our disposal, both at school and through connections within organized dentistry as well. Editor's Note: If you don't currently mentor a student or new dentist, what are you waiting for? They don't know what they don't know. Pass on your knowledge and expertise to help perserve the future of dentistry.
DR. ANDREW JANIGA I recently completed the AEGD program with the Army, where I had hands-on experience with implants, CAD/CAM restorations, and periodontal surgeries. I am currently stationed at Ft. Lee. My family and I are enjoying our time in Virginia!
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