Meet Jackie Mamedova, DDS 4
What's it like being in dental school? What are some of the challenges -- the expectations? What do you most want to do with your dental degree? In this series of profiles, Dentistry's student ambassadors Richard He, Madonna Rofaeel, and Anmol Biajar ask their fellow students to open up about some of their greatest challenges and the joys of being a dental student.
In this profile, fourth year student Jackie Mamedova was interviewed by fellow fourth year student ambassador, Richard He.
Tell me a bit about yourself, Jackie.
I was born and grew up in a small city in Russia after my parents immigrated from Azerbaijan, a country many have never heard of. Due to circumstances, my family and I had to leave the country before I graduated from medical school. I moved to Canada together with my parents and three siblings almost 9 years ago for a new adventure and home. I finished my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at York University and now I am in my final year in dental school at the University of Toronto.
What are you plans after graduation?
I am interested in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) and am planning to do an internship in OMFS or a GPR. I am drawn towards this profession that would allow me to be involved in biopsies, extractions, major surgeries such as mandibular resection and orthognathic surgery, and diagnosis and treatment of pathological cases. My continued fascination while studying oral surgery throughout dental school had clarified this path. If I am not accepted this year, I want to work in rural areas to get exposure to extractions and a greater variety of procedures.
Talk to upper years. Even if they seem stressed and rushed, they will find time to sit down and help you.
What has been the biggest challenge in dental school?
I am a perfectionist and I often overexert myself, but I tell myself to not forget that I’m still acquiring experience and I don’t have to be perfect in everything. It is normal to make mistakes; this is part of the learning process. No one should be too hard on themselves all the time.
How do you maintain your mental well-being throughout the year?
It has been tough keeping schoolwork in balance with social life and remembering that there is world outside aside from dentistry. Sometimes, I sacrifice social life during busier times, but it shouldn’t be constant. I try to find time for my hobbies, such as beading, dancing, and playing tennis. I also go to the gym to ease stress and go home every weekend to spend time with family. Participating in social events and clubs at the school is also important because you feel better talking to your friends and knowing that they support you. Some of the things I’ve been involved in were OHTH, Brushamania, Valentine’s bake sale for charity, Xi Psi Phi fraternity, board game night, Dentantics, and co-ed basketball.
Do you have tips for incoming students?
Stay close to your friends. Talk to upper years. Even if they seem stressed and rushed, they will find time to sit down and help you. I had two wonderful peer mentors, Joanna and Trevor, who I talked to regularly and helped me get through first year.
Want to know more about dental school? Get in touch with UofT Dentistry's student ambassadors.
Photo: Jackie Mamedova, courtesy Richard He