Dr. Christina Rosenthal, founder of Determined to be a Doctor Someday (DDS), a non-profit organization that exposes the youth to healthcare professions, talks about her experience in dental school, her work with DDS, and work-life balance.
- [01:11] Why Dentistry?
- [04:09] Biggest Challenge in Dental School
- [05:55] Determined to be a Doctor Someday
- [09:46] Establishing Relationships with Mentors
- [14:34] Tips for Work-Life Balance
Why Dentistry?
Dr. Rosenthal admits that she’s always had a weird fascination with teeth. In college, her then-boyfriend suggested that she consider a career in dentistry. As a Spanish major, she wondered if she would need to change her undergraduate courses to get into dental school. With a bit of research and consultation, she learned that a science degree was not required. Dr. Rosenthal pursued her bachelor’s in foreign languages while taking the required subjects for dentistry.
A non-science degree can actually play to your advantage. It can help set you apart during applications and it brings a new discipline that can enrich your future practice. Should your plans fall through, a non-science degree can also serve as your back up plan.
Entering Dental School as a Young Mother
Most students found it difficult to adjust to the new workload that dental school entailed. The large volume of material that you need to learn is crammed into such a limited time. In Dr. Rosenthal’s experience, there was the added challenge of raising her toddler son during this adjustment period.
Determined to be a Doctor Someday
When Dr. Rosenthal joined the American Dental Associations Institute for Diversity and Leadership, she was required to create an initiative that would benefit her local community. Thus, Determined to be a Doctor Someday (DDS) was born.
Growing up, Dr. Rosenthal recalls putting doctors up on a pedestal. She was not aware of the challenges that came with becoming a physician. The goal of DDS is to show the diverse backgrounds of healthcare professionals and how they overcame hurdles to become successful. As a result, Dr. Rosenthal hopes that underprivileged students feel inspired and determined to start a career in healthcare.
The Importance of Mentors
Mentors can advise you on pitfalls and opportunities on your path to becoming a doctor. It’s not easy to find a mentor but remain persistent. Once you do find an advisor, establish a good relationship with them. Remember that a relationship is about give and take. Your mentor is also there to learn from you.
Achieving Work-Life Balance
Manage your time by being organized and structured. Do everything with love and gratitude. By being intentional with your actions, work-life balance becomes easier to achieve. Make sure to stick to your priorities. Know what your values are but be flexible enough to adapt to what life throws at you.
Follow Dr. Christina T. Rosenthal on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Also check out her website for updates about her projects and speaking engagements. For more information about DDS, visit their website.
