Hosted by Dr Michael Shambira
What does final-year dentistry actually feel like when graduation is close—but the responsibility of becoming a dentist is suddenly real? In this episode, Dr Michael Shambira turns the microphone towards Dental Headstart co-host and final-year dental student Ahmed Issa.
Ahmed reflects honestly on the highs and lows of dental school, how the experience has shaped him, and the excitement, pressure and uncertainty he feels about entering the profession.
This is more than an introduction to one of our hosts. It is a conversation about the transition every dentist experiences but rarely explores in depth: leaving the identity of “dental student” behind while still working out what kind of clinician—and person—you want to become. Whether listeners are still studying, approaching graduation or remembering their own final year, they will likely recognise part of their journey in Ahmed’s.
Get connected
Ahmed Issa – @drahmedissa
Dr Michael Shambira – @thatdentistmike
[1:16] Growing up lost and unmotivated
[3:01] The breaking point
[4:40] What dentistry got right
[8:32] Failing the hand-skills exam
[14:46] Lessons in time and effort
[17:16] Patient safety and the six-second rule
[18:29] The chaos of job hunting
[21:58] The biggest lie new grads tell
[34:15] Feeling like a real dentist
[38:34] Vision for patients, five years on
[43:33] How the friendship began
[51:24] Rapid fire round
[53:03] The mission behind Dental Headstart
Ahmed Issa is a final-year dental student and co-host of Dental Headstart, where he helps bring the student experience into honest conversations about dentistry, professional development and the transition into clinical practice. As he approaches graduation, Ahmed represents a perspective shared by many emerging dentists: proud of how far he has come, excited by what lies ahead and still navigating the uncertainty of becoming responsible for patients beyond the structure of dental school.
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The Esesson Foundation are running two events: their annual gala, and a clinical education weekend — and what makes this different is that every single presenter is donating their time. No egos, no fluff, just really good clinicians giving back.
The goal is simple: raise money for healthcare access for vulnerable children. Last year alone, with around $300,000 raised, they delivered over $2.5 million worth of medical and dental care, treating more than 4,000 children who otherwise would’ve gone without. The CPD event alone raised $50,000 last year with 60 attendees — and this year, with more notice and more support, the aim is to double that.
It’s one of those rare events where you get excellent clinical education and know every dollar of profit is going directly back into care. Nothing pretentious. Just good people, good dentistry, and a really meaningful cause. Check out the line up below…
The post Feature #103: The Final Year Nobody Talks About with Ahmed Issa on Becoming a Dentist appeared first on Dental Head Start.