Why study Dentistry at the University of Sydney? We ask our students about their experiences studying the Bachelor of Dentistry.

What's your background?

I have a bachelor of medical science and a Masters in public health both from the University of Sydney.

Why did you choose the Bachelor of Dentistry Program?

I have always had an interest in medicine, and I saw dentistry as an opportunity to specialise in an area of medicine where I could work with patients and use practical skills.

What's the course like so far - as you expected?

I love the course it was a lot better than I expected. My experience of university from my first degree was a really competitive, non-supportive environment. The first thing I adored about bdent was the people. Everyone was really helpful and with the 'no hierarchy' marking scheme of bdent, that competitiveness was gone. The course is challenging but it forces you to learn and I like that.

Any particular highlights?

My friends from the course number one. Secondly the patients, we have the opportunity to work with patients at a very early stage from that you recognise why you have worked so hard to get into the medical field. My patient hugged me last week after I had pulled out all her front six teeth and sutured, that was a pretty powerful moment. To have that experience only two years into the course is pretty amazing.

What are your ambitions after you finish your degree?

I would like to gain as much experience of working in different settings as possible. I aim to get more patients to enjoy the dentistry experience as my patient last week. I would like to learn more about implants probably as a specialty to focus on later down the track.

What would you say to students considering the Bachelor of Dentistry Program?

You'll love it. On initial entry of the course you will want to know everything, and gradually with more patient exposure you will. From the bdent program you will get a rounded knowledge of the dentistry field, and the experiences both at uni and socially will make all the stress of study thoroughly worth it.