On May 16, 2024, the 23rd annual White Coat Ceremony was held for the University of Alberta Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2026.
The following is from Dr. Jenny Doerksen’s address to the students:
Good afternoon faculty, guests, and to the class of 2026. It’s a privilege to be here with you and families on this important and exciting day. Unlike some of these speakers, it wasn’t that long ago that I was where you are today — nervous and excited to take the next step and finally get into the clinic. And then to actually be able to do a procedure, and another one, and another one, until it started to become second nature.
That’s my main advice to you today: do as many procedures as you can, get into the SHINE clinic, take advantage of as many opportunities to get experience as you can. This is how you develop your craft. This is how you become an excellent dentist; a skilled, compassionate, and successful dentist.
While you are developing your craft, don’t forget about your classmates. Look out for ways to support each other and be willing to take their help when it’s offered. The relationships that you build here can last a lifetime.
Now, even beyond my own personal experience, as President of the Alberta Dental Association I see the benefit of working together with our fellow dentists and how we can support each other even after dental school. This takes us beyond clinical dentistry to being a more holistic and well-rounded dentist.
That’s really where your professional association can make a difference.
More than just free backpacks, the Alberta Dental Association is your collective voice. We represent dentists throughout their entire career – from dental school to practice and even into retirement. If you’re not already a member, I would encourage you to sign up right away to be connected to your own personal network of dentists in Alberta.
As students, you have access to educational and networking opportunities like our webinars and upcoming Alberta Dental Team Summit. You also have access to other member benefits such as discounts, wellness programs, and Legal Expense Insurance.
So, on behalf of the nearly 2,900 members of your Alberta Dental Association, congratulations on this next step towards becoming a dentist.Your Association is here to support you … and we are excited to be your future peers and colleagues … and I am looking forward to your contributions and involvement in the Association.
Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today and all the best over the next two years – enjoy them.