Convocation Spotlight: Emily Ervin
5 June 2019
Emily Ervin is the 2019 recipient of the Alberta Dental Association & College (ADA&C) gold medal. This award is given to students with the highest academic standing. Ervin's dedication and focus stemmed beyond her academic success as well.
She was actively involved in the DSA Charity Ball, served as class president, executive member of the DSA, and many other fundraisers like the annual Sock Drive, holiday hampers, and the yearbook committee.
How does it feel to be the recipient of the Alberta Dental Association & College Gold Medal?
It feels amazing. I was so surprised to find out. Everyone in my class is so strong, so I really didn't expect it. I am honoured to receive this award after working so hard for the past four years, it's meant so much.
How did you balance an intense and rigorous academic program with your volunteering commitments?
For me when I got in to dentistry, I made the conscious decision to be involved. Dental school wasn't just about the grades or being a student, I aspired to be the kind of person I wanted to be and make a difference where I could. I wanted to be more than just a student. I wanted to really be the kind of professional I wanted to be - to help and make things better for the school and community.
What has had the largest impact on your success as a student and dental professional?
The Charity Ball has the biggest impact on me. Just in terms of the event and involvement involved. It was such a huge event and I hadn't done anything like this before. Hearing people who had gone on mission trips and the seeing the impact that our fundraising has around the world is powerful. It's indescribable to say how much this meant to me and how important it is to be involved in these kinds of things.
What are your future plans?
I will be spending the next year as GPR student here at the school. After that, I would like to work in private practice or in hospital dentistry. Eventually, I would like to teach. I love mentoring. I love being involved and staying current with everything.
What advice do you have for students entering the program?
My main advice would be to get involved. Think beyond grades and tests. You need to know the material well to treat your patients, not to just get a perfect score. Working together is the most rewarding and that's what is going to stick with you. That's what has made the last four years enjoyable for me - everything we did and accomplished as a class together.