Building Dreams, One Smile at a Time: A Journey of Growth at IMU

As I reflect on my time at IMU (International Medical University) Malaysia, I am filled with gratitude and a sense of accomplishment. The experience has been nothing short of transformative, shaping me into the dentist I am today. Throughout my journey, I have encountered invaluable opportunities, supportive mentors, and a nurturing learning environment that have propelled me towards success. With the recent honour of winning the first prize in the Restorative Competition in National Dental Student Clinical Skills Competition 2023 (NDSCSC), I am eager to share my insights and reflections with current and prospective dentistry students at IMU.

My Experience at IMU
IMU provided me with an exceptional dental degree programme that equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a proficient and compassionate dentist. The faculty at the School of Dentistry were not only experts in their respective fields but also patient and kind mentors who were dedicated to our growth. The state-of-the-art dental laboratory and ample resources available further enhanced our learning experience, ensuring we were well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Additionally, the comfortable learning environment and the diverse orientation programme facilitated the formation of lifelong friendships and a strong support system.

My Experience at IMU

IMU provided me with an exceptional dental degree programme that equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a proficient and compassionate dentist. The faculty at the School of Dentistry were not only experts in their respective fields but also patient and kind mentors who were dedicated to our growth. The state-of-the-art dental laboratory and ample resources available further enhanced our learning experience, ensuring we were well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Additionally, the comfortable learning environment and the diverse orientation programme facilitated the formation of lifelong friendships and a strong support system.

The Road Ahead: Awaits the New Dental Officer Programme (NDOP)
As I eagerly await the opportunity to serve the community, I am reminded of the significance of the New Dental Officer Programme (NDOP). This structured programme, designed specifically for new contract dental officers, will not only orient us to our roles but also provide invaluable exposure to oral healthcare in the public service. With the knowledge and skills gained from IMU, I am confident in my ability to provide safe and quality oral healthcare services to patients. I am excited to embark on this new chapter, applying the lessons learned and making a positive impact on the lives of those I will have the privilege to treat.

The Road Ahead: Awaits the New Dental Officer Programme (NDOP)

As I eagerly await the opportunity to serve the community, I am reminded of the significance of the New Dental Officer Programme (NDOP). This structured programme, designed specifically for new contract dental officers, will not only orient us to our roles but also provide invaluable exposure to oral healthcare in the public service. With the knowledge and skills gained from IMU, I am confident in my ability to provide safe and quality oral healthcare services to patients. I am excited to embark on this new chapter, applying the lessons learned and making a positive impact on the lives of those I will have the privilege to treat.

Exploring the Path to Specialisation
While I am enthusiastic about starting my career as a general dentist, I am also curious about the various paths and opportunities that lie ahead in dentistry. My time at IMU has sparked an interest in aesthetic dentistry, where I can combine my passion for art with helping people achieve the smiles they desire. However, I recognise that dentistry encompasses a wide range of specialities, and I am eager to explore and discover new paths that align with my interests and aspirations. The journey to specialisation may be challenging, but I am determined to continue learning and growing to become the best dentist I can be.

Exploring the Path to Specialisation

While I am enthusiastic about starting my career as a general dentist, I am also curious about the various paths and opportunities that lie ahead in dentistry. My time at IMU has sparked an interest in aesthetic dentistry, where I can combine my passion for art with helping people achieve the smiles they desire. However, I recognise that dentistry encompasses a wide range of specialities, and I am eager to explore and discover new paths that align with my interests and aspirations. The journey to specialisation may be challenging, but I am determined to continue learning and growing to become the best dentist I can be.

Advice to Future Students
To my fellow dentistry students at IMU, I urge you to seize every opportunity to gain valuable experience and explore your passions within the field. The clinical sessions offered are not just a requirement but an opportunity to hone your skills and discover your areas of interest. Be proactive in your learning, seek guidance from your lecturers, and take advantage of the supportive environment that surrounds you. Remember that dentistry can be demanding, but with perseverance and the support of your peers and mentors, you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

Advice to Future Students

To my fellow dentistry students at IMU, I urge you to seize every opportunity to gain valuable experience and explore your passions within the field. The clinical sessions offered are not just a requirement but an opportunity to hone your skills and discover your areas of interest. Be proactive in your learning, seek guidance from your lecturers, and take advantage of the supportive environment that surrounds you. Remember that dentistry can be demanding, but with perseverance and the support of your peers and mentors, you can overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

My journey at IMU has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the comprehensive education provided by the School of Dentistry to the support and guidance of my mentors, including the influential Prof Seow Liang Lin, the Dean of the School of Dentistry, I owe my success and the recognition I received in the National Dental Student Clinical Skills Competition 2023 (NDSCSC) competition for their unwavering support. IMU has truly been a pathway to my dreams, allowing me to build a fulfilling career one smile at a time. As I embark on this new chapter as a dental officer, I carry with me the lessons, experiences, and memories from my time at IMU, and I am excited to make a positive impact on the lives of my patients.

Written by Tee Yi Wen