You get hands-on experience very early on and this was an important consideration for me

What made you want to work in healthcare, and was there a reason you decided to train as a dentist specifically?

"I didn’t know I wanted to work in healthcare until quite late into sixth form. Like many people I’d always had a science oriented career in mind but had never really considered dentistry, probably because I wasn’t very keen on going to the dentist myself!

"After realising I could combine the underpinning science with art (my favourite hobby!) I decided this could be the path for me. Due to the pandemic it was difficult to get work experience but through my part time jobs I knew I also really enjoyed chatting with people and helping them out where I could, so dentistry ticked all the boxes!"

What drew you to the University of Sheffield in particular?

"I grew up near a town called Grantham in Lincolnshire, so Sheffield was a good distance away to gain independence but also close by if I needed to go home. I’d heard Sheffield was known for its good reputation in dentistry, particularly the clinical skills of its graduates.

"You get hands-on experience very early on and this was an important consideration for me, as well as unique experiences such as outreach training, meaning you can get the most out of your time at university.

Growing up in the countryside, I also really valued the close proximity to the Peak District so I could escape the city easily whenever I needed to clear my mind."

What have you enjoyed most about studying at Sheffield?

"So many things I don’t know where to start! Being an avid runner and cycler, Sheffield offers some beautiful scenery and being able to do these in the neighbouring Peak District is something I definitely take for granted. I have met the most incredible people both on my course and through the wider university and with an abundance of social events on offer there is never time to be bored if you don’t want to be."

Tell us more about your clinical experiences at Sheffield - what sort of patient interactions have you had so far?

"The clinical experience at Sheffield is great. You quickly progress from assisting older year students to seeing your first patients. I really enjoyed my 3rd year, where alongside our general restorative clinics we were able to work on different specialties like orthodontics, paediatrics and oral surgery. The exposure to different clinical opportunities is invaluable and it really helps you get the most out of your degree. All of the staff are incredibly approachable and always open for questions.

Looking to the future, my aim is to specialise in paediatric dentistry - I find it incredibly rewarding working with children, especially when you can help them alleviate their anxieties.

Sophie McDonnell

BDS Dental Surgery

Tell us more about your work volunteering with Smile Squad. What do you enjoy most about this experience?

"Smile Squad is a student-led group as part of the Sheffield University Dental Students’ Society (SUDSS). Anyone in the dental school can get involved with this, and it's a great way to interact with our local community, as well as meet fellow dental students and improve your communication skills. Our visits involve going into schools and nurseries to talk to children about oral health in a fun and engaging way - it’s incredibly rewarding (and fun!). 

"We’re always looking for ways to improve our programme, and this year have also produced some educational videos about what might happen at a dental visit, aimed at primary school children to reduce any uncertainty before they go. We also participate in events out in the wider community, which enables us to provide information to both parents and children alike."

What advice would you give to someone considering studying dentistry at university? 

"It can be tough at times but that is totally normal! Make sure you have people to guide and support you - when I was applying to dentistry, none of my family or friends worked in healthcare so I felt a bit out of my depth, but I had the most amazing Chemistry teacher who helped me through everything! Dentistry is important and it will be a big part of your life but it shouldn’t be all of your life. Make sure to look after yourself and keep up hobbies and things that bring you joy - you can’t pour from an empty cup!"