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Ashmole
sixth form

Tanya - University of Leeds, Dentistry

Hannah

 


Date attended Ashmole:   2004 - 2011

A Levels:   Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Geography

University:  University of Leeds

Course: Master of Dental Surgery


 

 

 

What are you doing now?

I work as an associate dentist, in Beckenham, in a high street general dental practice. I completed my foundation training (first year out of university) in the same practice I work in currently. I do a mix of both NHS and private work and treat a variety of patients spanning from six-month old babies to chronically sick patients as well.

What did/do you get involved with at university?

I was a member of the Dental Society at Leeds, which involved attending lots of social events, lectures which expanded my knowledge of dentistry and meeting other dental students from around the country.  I worked as a dental student ambassador at my time at university which involved helping out on open days, giving tours to prospective students and parents and promoting our unique 3D virtual dental simulators.  In my spare time, I enjoyed going to Yoga Society and the Arts & Crafts Society where I had lots of fun making different things and meeting new people.

What did you find most valuable about your experiences at Ashmole Academy? What skills did it help you to develop?

I found the teachers’ help and dedication to their jobs the most valuable experience at Ashmole.  Whenever I required help or guidance, they would never fail to give up their time for me.  I was placed in the gifted and talented programme at Ashmole. This programme gave me an insight into university and pushed me to work even harder.  One teacher who I remember fondly even tried to get me in touch with another Ashmole student, who was a current dental student, to assist me. The help and guidance I was given was beyond words.

Which Programme/s did you get involved in during 6th Form e.g. MedSoc, Oxbridge? other:

I was involved in the Oxbridge programme when I was in the 6th Form.  I had no interest in getting into either Oxford or Cambridge, as they did not do a dental degree.  However, the competition to get into dental school is comparable to getting into Oxford/Cambridge. Therefore, I found this very helpful and I gained useful interview tips and tricks.

What top tips would you give to other students wishing to follow a similar career to yours?

Hard work pays.  I have never believed in the “easy way out” or doing something just to get the job done.  Ever since A-levels and throughout my degree, I maintained the same philosophy of putting all my focus and effort into every task I was doing.  This helped me to achieve good grades, and do well in my interviews and ultimately lead me to where I am today.  As long as you stay focussed on your goal and always put your heart and soul into what you do, you will go far.

Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself.

I think in a job like dentistry that is highly stressful, demanding and challenging, one must have a hobby.  I have recently undertaken painting and it has now become my peaceful escape from work life.  I enjoy my job but I always advocate that everyone should have an escape to distract yourself to remain positive, fresh and happy.

Please write a quote that sums up your experience at Ashmole.

‘Ashmole was an inspiring and welcoming place which has now become a piece of me and my past’.