Becoming Involved in Your Community as a Pre-dental Student
Becoming a dentist is a long journey involving academics and community service. However, one thing that comes with becoming a dentist is actively supporting communities and helping others. It is also essential for us to build connections and opportunities to gain valuable experiences before entering the next chapter of our careers. Here are some opportunities that can help many fellow pre-dental students or anyone curious about becoming a dentist to be involved in the dental community.
Shadowing a dentist: Volunteer and shadow local dental clinics. Whether you want to become a dentist or not, shadowing a dentist allows you to gain experience in the dental environment. It is also an opportunity for students to discover whether dentistry is really for them. Shadowing a dentist can help you gain insight into what it's like to be a dentist on a daily basis and become familiar with the atmosphere.
Donate: Donating any amount to organizations that help provide dental care for the disadvantaged is a great way to contribute to the dental community. Dental care can be expensive for those who cannot afford it. Many nonprofits and fundraisers would appreciate your support for providing oral health care to those in need.
Community service: Participate in community service events or volunteer at dental health fairs. Community service as a pre-dental student doesn't necessarily mean only being involved in dental-related activities; it means becoming involved in your community as a whole. Whether it is food drives or tutoring children, it is essential to make a difference in the lives of others.
Join your school's dental club: Being involved in your school’s dental club is a great way to connect with other students in a similar field. This provides a chance to engage in community service/dental activities and share new ideas for making the school community comfortable for students.
Start something new! If you have fewer opportunities to engage in your community, why not start something new? Leadership is a chance to connect with others on the same path as you. Consider starting a club or organization and creating a new environment that motivates and inspires others to engage in the dental community.
These are just a few examples of getting involved with your community. Becoming a dentist requires a passion for making others smile and improving their health and well-being. These involvements demonstrate your genuine dedication to improving the lives of others.
