Mentoring program successfully expanded in its second year

Dr Mihiri Silva and Hilary White.

The program was designed to help final year Doctor of Dental Surgery and Bachelor of Oral Health students transition smoothly from university to professional practice. Forty-two mentor-mentee pairings participated in the program this year – almost double the numbers from the pilot program in 2017.

Final year Doctor of Dental Surgery student Hilary White, who was mentored by paediatric dentist Dr Mihiri Silva, said the program has helped her prepare for her clinical career.

“The mentoring program has been pivotal in helping me navigate the pathway from dental student to dentist. Mihiri is an inspiring mentor; her understanding of the profession and experiences has been so valuable.”

The mentoring program also offers Melbourne Dental School (MDS) alumni an opportunity to remain connected with the school through a unique and meaningful volunteer experience.

“It has been an amazing year and I feel very fortunate to have been part of the program,” says Dr Silva.

She encourages other MDS alumni who are interested in mentoring to get involved in the program.

“It has been wonderful to get to know Hilary and see her energy and excitement about her future in dentistry. I feel really optimistic about the future of our profession meeting such bright students! It has also been great to hear about what it’s like to be a dental student today – there have been so many changes since I studied dentistry.”

The students who participated in the program this year are set to graduate this December. Hilary, for one, is approaching this important milestone with confidence.

“Mihiri has guided me to critically think about my dental career goals and find pathways to best achieve them. This has definitely helped moving into the work force appear less daunting.”

Mentor a final year student!

We are now accepting expressions of interest for the 2019 Melbourne Dental School Mentoring Program.

If you are working in general practice and have a keen awareness of the current professional environment, we would love to hear from you. Applications from overseas or interstate alumni are welcomed.

As a mentor, you will have the opportunity to share your knowledge, skills and experience with your mentee in a one-on-one partnership.

The 2019 program will run from February to November. To express your interest in the 2019 program, or for more information, email: mdhs-alumni@unimelb.edu.au