Introducing Your RO Ambassador – Jessica

Say hello to Jessica, a current university student at Newcastle University

Getting into dental school has been quite a journey for me. If there’s one thing I’d love for you to take away from my experience, it’s that setbacks can sometimes lead to even better opportunities in the long run.

Throughout school and sixth form, my plan was actually to become a veterinary surgeon. I spent my school holidays gaining experience in veterinary practices, a sheep farm, kennels, a wild bird hospital, and even a zoo! I thought I knew what I wanted to do and everyone knew how enthusiastic I was about pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. Despite some teachers discouraging me, saying I might not get the grades or an offer due to the competitiveness of the course, I was determined to prove them wrong. I took A-levels in Chemistry, Biology, and Psychology, worked hard, and applied to veterinary medicine in Year 13. I was thrilled to get interviews at Surrey and Nottingham, but despite feeling they went well, I was rejected. At the time, I was devastated.

Still, I pushed forward, hoping to achieve AAA in my A-levels to reapply. I also applied through UCAS Extra for BSc Biological Sciences at the Royal Veterinary College as a backup and received an offer. On results day, I opened my envelope, hoping for AAA – but I got BBC. I remember bursting into tears, and a teacher took me aside to reassure me I had still done well. But at that moment, I didn’t feel like I had reached my full potential.

Looking back, I now see that not getting the grades was a blessing in disguise. It forced me to step back and re-evaluate what I truly wanted.

A Change in Direction

I went to the Royal Veterinary College in London and completed my BSc in Biological Sciences, graduating with a 2:1. During this time, I started reflecting on my future and realised that I was more interested in human biology than animal science. I also enjoyed interacting with people and wanted a stable career in healthcare with lifelong learning and career progression. That’s when I began considering dentistry.

After completing two weeks of work experience at dental practices, I knew this was the right path for me. In my final year of Biological Sciences, I applied for BDS Dental Surgery, but my low UCAT score meant I only got one interview and no offers. Another setback – but I wasn’t going to give up!

Persistence Pays Off

After graduating, I worked as a Clinical Trials Assistant at an NHS hospital in Manchester for nearly two years. I loved the job, gained valuable experience in the workplace, and saved money for my planned second undergraduate degree.

When I applied for BDS Dental Surgery again, I achieved a much higher UCAT score, increasing my chances of getting some interviews. I applied to King’s College London (both the 4-year graduate-entry and 5-year programmes), Sheffield, and Newcastle. This time, I got all four interviews and three offers! It was an amazing feeling to not only get in but also have a choice. My colleagues were so happy for me, and I still occasionally return to visit and do bank work for them at the hospital.

I chose Newcastle University because of its excellent student support, smaller class sizes, and more affordable living costs compared to London. I started my BDS Dental Surgery degree in 2022, and I haven’t looked back! I’ve met so many supportive people who want the best for me and my future career.

University Life & Extracurriculars

Since joining Newcastle, I’ve taken part in various extracurricular activities. In my first year, I wrote science articles for The Courier, the university’s student newspaper, with one even being featured in their 75th-anniversary magazine – something I’ll treasure forever! I have also joined Wind Band and have performed in both summer and Christmas concerts with my clarinet. Their annual Christmas meal is always a highlight of the year!

This year, I joined the British Sign Language (BSL) Society and I am currently completing my Level 1 BSL certificate. It has been a fantastic learning experience, and I hope that once I become more confident, I’ll be able to communicate easily with deaf patients in my dental career.

Advice for College/Sixth Form Students

If there’s one thing I want you to take from my experience, it’s this:

1. Have backup career options. Even if you are set on something specific, like I was, keeping an open mind can lead to great opportunities.
2. Don’t let discouragement stop you. If I had listened to some of my teachers, I might have settled for something that wasn’t right for me. Trust yourself and what feels right for you.
3. Take your time choosing a career. In my case, having extra time led me to a path that suited me far better.
4. Get involved in extracurricular activities at university. Whether it’s sports, music, student newspapers, or a hobby, joining societies helps you meet people, build new skills, and make great memories. The societies fair at the start of the academic year is a great way to explore what’s available!
5. Be proactive in making new connections. Talking to new people is how you form friendships and build valuable networks.

I hope my experiences show you that, with determination and patience, things will work out for the best – even if they don’t go as planned at first.

I’m looking forward to working with you all and answering any questions via email. If there’s anything in my journey you’d like me to expand on, or if you need advice about anything else, I’m happy to help!

Jessica 😊