Dentistry degree personal statement example (1i)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Healthcare has always inspired me as a profession due to the positive impact you can have on someone's life. After receiving excellent orthodontic treatment, experiencing first hand the psychological effect that dental work can have on a person, my heart was set on joining the profession by becoming a dentist. I organised a work placement with my dentist and shadowed him whilst he carried out both NHS and private treatments. Root canal therapies were the most interesting as such a complex procedure was done so efficiently. I could see the skill a dentist needs to perform such intricate tasks and the challenges of working to a set time limit.

I also gained a better understanding of the importance of empathy and reassurance towards nervous patients from the calm manner he adopted with them. I further observed three dentists working in a hospital dental department. It was intriguing to see the different types of surgery performed and the role the dentist played in treating oral cancers. One afternoon they ran a clinic for psychiatric patients, many were in a lot of pain yet still unenthusiastic to have surgery so required patience and a unique manner to help as much a possible. I saw the patience the dentists needed in such cases and could sympathise with their frustration at not being able to help. I think it is most important for a dentist to be motivated and enthusiastic. I believe I have the skills and commitment to excel in the course and subsequent career, I wish to demonstrate this and become a real asset to your university.

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

My work experience helped me to better understand the need for team work and good management. Whilst at an orthodontic practice one orthodontist was late so the practice owner had to work hard to ensure these patients were seen to without affecting his own patients. After the practice closed I stayed with the owner where he explained how he analyses X-rays. His long hours showed the stamina and commitment required keep a practice running smoothly.

I subscribe to The Dental Update, from reading it I have learnt about important new developments in dentistry. The articles on new composites inspired me to do a presentation on the chemistry of restorative dentistry to my class. By explaining the compounds and reactions involved in the most common types of fillings I surprised both my peers and teacher with how much our chemistry course related to materials many of them had in their mouths.

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

For over four years I have volunteered weekly running a cub pack. I get a great sense of satisfaction from giving back to an organisation that I have been a part of. My communication skills with children have also improved by interacting with them both as a group and as individuals and I have had the chance to learn new skills such as first aid.

I have developed strong interpersonal skills from my role as deputy head of my sixth form union. This comes as a result of liaising with the head teacher and bursar to communicate new ideas in the hope of improving the community of our sixth form college.

I have capitalised on my stamina and versatility as a committed member of my sixth form rugby team, my position of flanker means completing many complex moves under pressure as well as always being involved in the play.

I have good hand eye coordination as a result of constructing and painting intricate war gaming models. Many of the techniques are similar to those used by dentists so the skills I have learnt could be applied to carrying out dental treatments with relative ease.

My leadership and effective team work has made me successful in my Saturday job at Waitrose. Since starting I have been given the extra responsibilities of managing the section for periods of time and helping train new staff. I have also developed more confidence through speaking to customers and solving their problems.

Universities applied to:

• Sheffield (A200)
• Kings College London (A205)
• Cardiff (A200)
• Barts and the London (A200)
• Kings College London (B99)

Grades achieved:

• Biology (A2) - A
• Chemistry (A2) - A
• Maths (A2) - A*
• Physics (AS) - B
• Extended project - C
• Biology (AS) - A
• Chemistry (AS) - B
• Maths (AS) - A
• Physics (AS) - B

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.

Need help with your personal statement? You can ask a question or get feedback from The Student Room community (and our trained personal statement experts) on the personal statement advice forum.