Dentistry degree personal statement example (1c)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My passion for healthcare stemmed from my interest of biology and chemistry from a science experiment undertaken in primary school. Upon receiving orthodontic treatment when I was younger, I realised there was more to dentistry than I originally thought. The decision of working towards becoming a dentist was finalised after being encouraged by my various work experiences. When I was shadowing the dentist, I came to view procedures differing from extractions of wisdom teeth to teeth whitening. Dentistry combines both biology and chemistry in a practical medium, making it the right profession for me.

Dentistry appeals to me, in the same way as a crime novel, evaluating each incident, in a dentist’s case, a problem. I am a dedicated worker and can adapt very quickly to situations that arise. Dentistry offers intellectual and practical challenges and it incorporates communicating with patients, all of which I enjoy. Studying Dentistry and becoming a Dentist, can accomplish a dream to work within a team to serve the community.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

During my work experience, I gained an insight into the daily life of dental surgeons. I came to apprehend that the dentist offers consultations as well as treatment, to satisfy the needs of the patient. Having had work experience at NHS and private practices, as well as both combined, I came to realise the difference in treatment between the two services, as well as between different practices. I was lucky enough to see both parts of a Root canal treatment, realising how such a standard treatment can affect a patients’ life greatly.

Working in a pharmacy has allowed me to improve such skills as communication and organisation, recognising that a Pharmacy is similar to a Dental practice. I am a regular reader of the British Medical Journal, taking the initiative to keep up to date with Medical and Dental affairs. In such a demanding profession, my interest lies in the various skills needed to assess different cases and make an accurate prognosis on a daily basis.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Recently, I have volunteered at two different summer play schemes, one for disabled and the other for not. This has allowed me to understand the needs of different groups of people and how to work around them. Taking part in a First Aid course has further enabled me to focus on a job in healthcare, particularly Dentistry. Upon completion of the Duke of Edinburgh Silver award, I have learnt how to be independent and develop myself by learning new skills, being elected as the leader of my group; I worked effectively in complex situations and delegated tasks efficiently. Having also done charity work at Barnardo’s, I have adapted to interact with different audiences, learning the importance of helping others in the community. In school I have various roles of responsibility, being a prefect and part of the school council; I have been able to express my views as well as other people. Over the years, I have become more community-conscious; helping out at open-evenings has made me aware that a little can go a long way, similar to a dental procedure.

My creativity surfaces through dancing and singing, especially at the annual nine-night Ras-Garba Indian festival. I help out by organising and decorating the venue, and help others learn the dance-steps used to celebrate this festival. As a member of the Hari Om Shivay Satsang Manda, I enjoy keeping in touch with others in the community as well as my mother tongue, and actively taking part in community events. I am very enthusiastic and determined, when playing competitive sports, such as Football, Cricket and Hockey. Being an eager sportsman, I pride myself on being a member of a 5-a-side team, and being given a Gold skill award for Cricket from the ECB. I also practice Muay Thai, a form of hard Martial Art, I find this a way to channel my thoughts and clear my mind. Other hobbies include, playing badminton, reading crime novels and cycling.

Universities applied to:

• University of Manchester (Dentistry)
• University of Birmingham (Dentistry)
• University of Leeds (Dentistry)
• University of Liverpool (Dentistry)

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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