Dentistry degree personal statement example (1r)

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

Having spent most of my visits at the dental clinic getting my braces tweaked and tightened between the ages of 11 and 13, I developed an interest in the field of dentistry. What I find most alluring about the vocation is that it is never-ending yet ever changing. The thought of learning and discovering new things for practically my whole life asserts my desire to become a dentist.

The UK offers excellent education and state-of-the-art facilities and I would be delighted to study in such an environment.

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

My work placement at the Swedish Dental Clinic gave me an insight of what looking inside a patient's mouth is like, which is the key aspect of a dentist's work. Observing the construction of bridges, veneers and crowns exhibited the various methods of improving the aesthetics of a tooth. I shadowed dentists carrying out more complex procedures such as a root canal therapy of a molar on the top jaw as well as a premolar on the lower jaw. This helped me boost my confidence and enabled me to appreciate the importance of precision instruments when it comes to drilling a tooth. As I observed the insertion of dentures I noted that it may be difficult at times and requires time and patience.

The skills I have gained from my work placement, extracurricular activities and rewarding experiences, I believe, have equipped me for my journey to becoming a committed and determined dentist.

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

I learnt that the clinician-patient relationship is based on trust and understanding and is a special one. Handling anxious patients and children taught me the importance of palliative care; for example, striking up an engaging conversation may see patients through pain and suffering. All in all working at the dental clinic was a rewarding experience.

My aspiration to make the world a better place to live in has led me to take part in several charity events such as the Mt. Longonot Climb In Support Of The Education Of The Blind And Visually Impaired Children and the Mega Tree Planting Initiative in which I contributed towards the planting of 44 trees. These experiences have given me the opportunity to fulfill my social responsibilities.

As an ambassador of Ethiopia during the 2008 East African Model United Nations conference I was able to appreciate the importance of international diplomacy and broaden my horizons on current global issues. I was also able to enhance my communication skills while debating several resolutions and meeting delegates from different social backgrounds. Being a House Oratorical Captain was a privilege. My role was to help my fellow housemates prepare for debates and recitations which helped me to develop my finesse and leadership skills. Working with other House Captains and making decisions together put my teamwork skills and time management skills to the test.

Playing the pianoforte helps me to unwind. It has also allowed me to employ my manual dexterity which I believe is vital as dentistry encompasses an artistic flair. I enjoy writing poems to convey my thoughts, feelings and ideas as well as to refine my inner being. When it comes to sports I enjoy swimming, rounders and netball. Playing these sports builds my stamina and introduces a competitive nature.

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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