Fresh Faces II Meet Alberta’s future dentists

New arrivals at the School of Dentistry’s DDS program drawn to UAlberta with a passion for science and an aim to make a difference in the community.

A class of 32 new learners have begun their four-year journey at the University of Alberta to become the province’s future dentists. Get to know some of the new students and why they’re excited to get started at the U of A.

Cody Hennig – Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2024

Why did you choose dentistry as a career?

From a young age I was exposed to the field of dentistry. Having two family members in the profession, I would always hear about the importance of brushing my teeth and preventing cavities. I used to think getting a cavity was the worst possible thing that could happen, second only to the end of the world. Looking back it sounds silly, but it did work to instill good brushing and flossing habits. As I got older, I began to learn more about daily life in the profession. I was really drawn to dentistry by the ability to make a measurable difference in my community. As a dentist I would be playing a vital part in relieving someone’s pain or even preventing that pain from developing in the first place. I also loved the work/life balance that dentistry offers, which I am sure is something that my future self will enjoy.

What makes you suitable for a career in health care?

 I have a keen interest in science. Throughout my time in school I have always been a fan of science courses. Once university came around, this love of science grew even more. I distinctly remember one undergraduate anatomy class that I took, and how fascinating it was being able to point out what we learned about on my own body. I also think I would be well suited for a health-care career as I’ve had the opportunity to see it from both the side of a dentist and a patient. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to shadow and talk to a couple dentists, which has allowed me to experience the profession from their point of view. I have also been the patient before during routine cleanings and, more notably, when I chipped a chunk out of a front tooth. I know how noticeable a chipped tooth can be and how nerve-racking it can be to get fixed. Shout out to my amazing dentist for fixing it so well that nobody has noticed it since!

What are you most excited about?

I am most excited to meet everyone who will be in my classes over the next four years. Coming from the Faculty of Science in which many of my lectures had around 300 people and everyone’s schedules were different, it was more difficult to get to know many of my classmates. I think it will be a nice change in pace to be in a smaller, tight-knit group for a longer period of time.

What are you most nervous about?

I am a little nervous about the new pace of learning since I have heard that dental school is going to be much more difficult than undergrad. Additionally, with many of the classes going online, I am a little worried it may be easier to fall behind. Nonetheless I am excited to be in this program and am going to take on this upcoming semester as best I can.

Yiying Huang – Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2024

Why did you choose dentistry as a career?

I love sweets. I have absolutely adored them since I was a little kid. But the downside of constantly eating sweets is that I was in and out of the dental office all the time. These trips to the dentist became so frequent that I got extremely comfortable in the environment and of course that prompted the thought: “Hey, this isn't’t so bad… I wonder if I could be a dentist?” However, it wasn't’t until high school that I finalized that thought. I started working as a chairside assistant during Grade 11 and I got to see the ins and outs of a dental office in action. I remember the first time I witnessed a patient receive her set of complete upper dentures; the happiness and satisfaction in her eyes really struck me. And there was no turning back from then, I knew I had found what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. 

What makes you suitable for a career in health care?

One of the most important sayings that my parents engrained into me is, “Try to put on the other person’s shoes.” I have actively tried to the best of my ability to incorporate this into my daily life and I continuously strive to live by this motto. I believe that health care is built upon the foundations of empathy, compassion and trust. The patient-and-doctor connection is truly important in the treatment process, and I believe I will be able to genuinely bond with patients, putting myself into their shoes.

What are you most excited about?

I am thrilled to be able to meet so many amazing, hardworking and like-minded peers. I am honestly humbled to get to learn and work alongside them and I hope that we are able to influence each other and achieve exciting objectives together. I’m looking forward to the next four years with everyone!

What do you feel are the opportunities in this new environment?

I feel the best opportunities come from the incredible resources that we have access to. This includes our wonderful professors and coordinators, as well as the primary facilities and equipment/instruments dedicated to us. I believe the aid from the faculty and staff allows for the success of the students. I am elated for the opportunity to become part of this new environment to strive for the best patient care and technique possible.