Students by Mike Gow and Kishan Sheth

Mike Gow

It has been a huge privilege and honour serving as DentaltownUK’s student editor since the start of my fourth year at dental school.

When I first heard that DentaltownUK was launching a couple of years ago, I was filled with immense excitement for the possibilities that this would present—particularly because I was (and still am) at an early stage in my dental education. This position presented me with the opportunity to learn from high-profile clinicians, academics and lecturers in the field. I’ve interviewed several leading and distinguished members of our profession, and put together articles and write-ups from students, lecturers, professors and dentists, which I hope have inspired others to follow in their footsteps or learn from their mistakes and journeys.

A highlight was when I had the opportunity to interview Dr Shiraz Khan, who balanced break dancing alongside his clinical practice. Hearing the way that he juggled and prioritised tasks really hit home: It could and can be possible to still succeed in outside passions and crafts alongside a career in dentistry. (I, too, have a love for dancing!)

Another highlight was when I had the opportunity to interview Dr Shalin Kapoor, who is an entrepreneur, filmmaker and clinical dentist. It was inspiring to hear Kapoor’s thoughts about the potential for squat practices, and to hear the process behind how he has built several from scratch.

I have no doubt that any future student editor will have the same experience, and with DentaltownUK growing in popularity, I would recommend that dental students around the UK who possess an organised approach and creative flair for writing questions and editing the articles get involved. Opportunities like these are rare and the benefits are endless: to learn, to connect, to network!

I look forward to seeing the student section grow under new leadership, and would like to thank the entire team behind this progressive publication, Thank you to Dr Mike Gow for helping, supporting and offering me this opportunity. I have gained so much.

I had a fantastic time at the Dental Academy, where I will now end my undergraduate training.

I am grateful to have been a part of DentaltownUK during my undergraduate years and look forward to continuing serving as an honorary editor.