2024 Summer Mentorship Program: fostering diversity in dentistry
By Rachel Boutet
On July 18, the Faculty of Dentistry welcomed 98 eager high school students who spent the day exploring what a day in the life of a dental student is like.
These students participated through U of T’s Summer Mentorship Program (SMP). The program was created to help address concerns about the under-representation of Black and Indigenous people within the health sciences. These students from various part of Ontario are given the chance to explore the health professions at the University of Toronto. Participating students earn a credit toward their high school diploma. As part of the selection process, students submit a written application expressing interest in the program, their transcripts and also undergo an interview with an admissions committee prior to being selected.
Thirty DDS student volunteers lent their time to share their experience at U of T Dentistry, answering questions about their journey to dental school and learnings thus far. High school students were given the opportunity to use patient simulators, take and pour dental impressions, and use red wax to fill prep teeth.
The feedback from the DDS student volunteers exemplifies the impact of the SMP and how it inspires high school students to explore a career in health sciences:
"This is my second year volunteering for the student mentorship program at the Faculty and I can say it's one of the most enjoyable parts of my summer," says , DD3 student. "Getting to be a part of the students' journey towards discovering dentistry is incredibly rewarding, and as much as the students get inspired, so do I! Ultimately, a lovely experience for all!" - Dursa Koshkebaghi
"At first, some of the students were apprehensive about their dreams and aspirations, being doubtful if they would be actually able to do it. I think being in this position is extremely important in showing them that anything is possible, and that they should strive for excellence. I believe talking to them and helping them understand the different pathways that were open to them helped make their dreams that much more concrete and reachable for them. This SMP experience allowed me to show the fun of dentistry, and get some students interested in the field." - Ethan Lau
"During the program, I guided my mentees by demonstrating dental check-ups, oral hygiene procedures, tooth fillings, and the application of rubber dams. Typically, students gain hands on experience in dentistry once they get into dental school. However, the program provides a unique opportunity for high school students to explore the field early on. Beyond teaching technical skills, I discussed the importance of empathy, research, and the relation of oral health and overall well-being. Through my interactions, I aimed to ignite a passion for the field. I observed a noticeable shift in my mentees' perceptions and a heightened interest in dentistry, which made the mentorship program exceptionally fulfilling for me. The experience made me realize the transformative power of mentorship." - Imon Pal
The day would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of Lucy Ferraro, administrative clinical program coordinator at the Faculty, and team.
“This is my 26th year in helping to organize this program – it is always so fulfilling to experience firsthand the passion our dental students show in how they can creatively allow high school students to experience the role of a dentist in a few hours,” says Ferraro. “They share their stories of their journey in choosing a dental career. Even though the high school students might not go down the path of choosing a dental career, this session inspires them to realize anything is possible in life if you truly seek it, believe in it and want it. Our dental students are the proof.”
Top photo: SMP at the Faculty of Dentistry (Jeff Comber)