3 answers
Ashton
Student
Glen Allen, Virginia
1
Question
Updated
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How do I prepare myself for another 8+ years of schooling post-high school?
I want to be an orthodontist, and I know that takes many years of additional schooling. I want to make sure I stay motivated and not fall out of love with my passion.
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3 answers
Anthony Hitchcock (US)
Auditor
11
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Hi Ashton,
I can't speak on dental school and the specialization required beyond that to become an orthodontist, but I can speak on motivation. Personally, I think it comes down to having a strong "why," and a "why" beyond just money. The deeper and stronger the why, the more motivated you will be (not to mention that you will be more likely to succeed in any area, in my opinion). So I'd reflect on why you want to be an orthodontist, and/or why you are passionate about it.
I think it's also important to note that passion also shows itself in ways you might not be used to. It isn't always "I just love what I do because it makes me feel good and it is fun." I think often times passion is "I'm obsessed and crazy about what I do and I am willing to go through pain because of it." I think this also comes from having a strong "why." So that is what I would suggest - figure out your why.
Good luck!
-Anthony
I can't speak on dental school and the specialization required beyond that to become an orthodontist, but I can speak on motivation. Personally, I think it comes down to having a strong "why," and a "why" beyond just money. The deeper and stronger the why, the more motivated you will be (not to mention that you will be more likely to succeed in any area, in my opinion). So I'd reflect on why you want to be an orthodontist, and/or why you are passionate about it.
I think it's also important to note that passion also shows itself in ways you might not be used to. It isn't always "I just love what I do because it makes me feel good and it is fun." I think often times passion is "I'm obsessed and crazy about what I do and I am willing to go through pain because of it." I think this also comes from having a strong "why." So that is what I would suggest - figure out your why.
Good luck!
-Anthony
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Ashton. The road to becoming an orthodontist is long and demanding, you need to take care of yourself along the way. Make time for hobbies, exercise, volunteering, or spending time with friends and family. Doing things you enjoy outside of school prevents burnout and reminds you why you want to become an orthodontist.
Gaining early experience in orthodontics can help you stay excited about your future career. You might volunteer at dental clinics or take part in research projects. Experiencing the work firsthand and seeing how it positively affects patients' lives can keep you motivated during challenging times in school.
Having support from others is important to stay on track. Be around mentors, classmates, and professionals who understand your challenges, they can give advice and encouragement when things get stressful. It's also important to develop good study habits and manage your time well.
My advice is, always remember your "why." Think about why you chose orthodontics, like helping patients, working in healthcare, or creating beautiful smiles. Keeping this purpose in mind will help you stay focused and excited even during challenging times. All the best!
Gaining early experience in orthodontics can help you stay excited about your future career. You might volunteer at dental clinics or take part in research projects. Experiencing the work firsthand and seeing how it positively affects patients' lives can keep you motivated during challenging times in school.
Having support from others is important to stay on track. Be around mentors, classmates, and professionals who understand your challenges, they can give advice and encouragement when things get stressful. It's also important to develop good study habits and manage your time well.
My advice is, always remember your "why." Think about why you chose orthodontics, like helping patients, working in healthcare, or creating beautiful smiles. Keeping this purpose in mind will help you stay focused and excited even during challenging times. All the best!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Ashton,
I think if you truly want to be an orthodontist, you'll enjoy learning all the things that you are going to learn. There is just so much to discover beyond high-school! That doesn't mean that you have to enjoy every single class or every single assignment, but overall you should be curious and excited about this path.
If you are not sure about another 8 years of school, give yourself some grace and consider making a career out of your undergraduate major. Make some time for hobbies and a social life too.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
I think if you truly want to be an orthodontist, you'll enjoy learning all the things that you are going to learn. There is just so much to discover beyond high-school! That doesn't mean that you have to enjoy every single class or every single assignment, but overall you should be curious and excited about this path.
If you are not sure about another 8 years of school, give yourself some grace and consider making a career out of your undergraduate major. Make some time for hobbies and a social life too.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP