On Friday 10 February at America Square Conference Centre in London, the BDA hosted a Careers Day to help young dentists kick start their futures.
The one-day conference, organised in conjunction with the UCL Eastman Dental Institute, was the 16th event of its type and brought together recently qualified dental practitioners, foundation dentists and those interested in different career paths.
The aim of the day was to inform young dentists on how to start their career path, what is involved, what is great about a specific path and also what could go wrong. This knowledge and guidance was brought to the delegates by a number of experts in the profession, from those who specialised in certain subjects to those who have worked volunteering abroad.
The young dentists were also given advice on CPD personal development plans, CV tips, ethics, working for a corporate and managing personal finances.
In addition, an exhibition hall gave attendees the chance to network with dental employers, protection organisations and financial planning firms.
The day began with an introduction and welcome from Albert Leung, acting head of CPD, UCL Eastman Dental Institute.
Purpose, passion and persistence
Andy McMenemy, inspirational speaker, coach and mentor, started the morning with his talk titled ‘The three P’s of personal success: purpose, passion and persistence.’ His personal and touching talk left delegates with a number of messages including ‘Your potential to shine exists by coming out of your comfort zone.’
This was followed by an engaging talk from The Singing Dentist, Milad Shadrooh, who gave insight into his own career path, provided five top tops to success and had a look at what the future holds for young dentists.
The attendees were then given a choice of four different rooms to attend either one of four different lectures. One room was hosted by Janine Brooks, dental educator, who discussed different types of CV and how to prepare for an interview.
Further insight was given by Karina Patel and Janine Doughty who discussed visa requirements and agencies for working abroad, as well as volunteering involvement and having an impact.
Taking part and adding value
Once the lecture schedule had come to an end, Nick Stolls, chair of eastern region LDC Secretaries Group and past president, eastern counties branch, BDA, concluded the day with a talk titled ‘Representation and your career – taking part and adding value.’ Nick discussed how to have a voice and gave an insight into the networks and opportunities that exist.
A drinks reception followed, giving delegates the chance to mingle with speakers and peers.
At the end of the day Dentistry caught up with attendee Amruta Sheth. ‘The BDA careers day has helped me to explore CV requirements and has given me insightful information on personal development plans.
‘It has also given me relevant information on education courses.
‘Today has been a very informative day and I have found out about how to go about certain things.
‘The exhibitors were great too as they provided me with information on job opportunities and they gave me good feedback.
‘Overall, the day has been a great success.’
