Why I Choose Queens?

I chose to study Dentistry at Queens because it has a reputation that speaks volumes as one of the leading Dental Schools in the UK. The facilities are excellent, right from when I first visited the Dental School at their open day and met the staff and students, I was determined to study here. 

The staff are excellent. We are taught by leading consultants in their field. The clinical teaching staff and other support staff, including the secretaries and lab staff are all so friendly and supportive – everyone at Queens wants you to succeed. 

At Queens, we are lucky to have a lot of clinical time. We begin seeing our own patients from the beginning of 3rd year. We also get strong medical teaching during 1st and 2nd year, something which sets us apart from other universities. 

On clinic, the ratio of staff to students is one of the best in the UK. This means that when we are on clinic, we are surrounded by experienced health care professionals who are great at helping us deliver optimal patient care, while encouraging us to be independent learners.

The Course

I’m currently in 4th year of the BDS programme. This year is very clinically orientated. This year we have been focusing on complete dentures and learning how to prepare teeth for crowns. This, alongside cementing our knowledge on partial dentures, Endodontics and restorations has led to a very engaging and stimulating year. We have also begun seeing children in our Paediatric module, as well as Orthodontic clinics; it’s been my favourite year of the degree so far.

There are approximately 60 students in each year group, 15 international students and 45 places for UK students.

Challenges and benefits of being a student

Being a dental student is a great experience. However, it does come with challenges. It is slightly difficult to balance a part time job alongside the degree, but if organised well it is definitely manageable. Sometimes, my friends doing courses that don’t have the same number of contact hours are able to have more free time and days off. However, I know that Dentistry as a degree requires more time due to its nature - it’s worth it.

However, our university has a fantastic lead personal tutor and a support group for us all so I couldn’t feel more comfortable anywhere else! 
People often try to scare you that a difficult course would mean no social life, which is definitely not true. You can always go out and have fun as long as you balance it. It is almost essential to have some sort of hobby or join a society that you are interested in to help you relax. I started dancing again which is one of the main things that helped get my mind of academics and form such great friendships.

What I have gained as a student 

I have gained so much from being a student. With Dentistry at Queen’s, it’s like a family. We all get on so well, and we have a great team spirit about the Dental School.

I have learned invaluable clinical skills, how to communicate effectively with patients and above all, to do my best and put the patients first.