Advertisement!
Author Information Pack
Editorial Board
Submit article
Special Issue
Editor's selection process
Join as Reviewer/Editor
List of Reviewer
Indexing Information
Most popular articles
Purchase Single Articles
Archive
Free Online Access
Current Issue
Recommend this journal to your library
Advertiser
Accepted Articles
Search Articles
Email Alerts
FAQ
Contact Us
Indian Journal of Dental Education

Volume  16, Issue 4, October-December 2023, Pages -
 

Letter to Editor

Navigating Uncharted Waters: A Dentist's Odyssey into Education, Healthcare, and Beyond

Utshab Bhattacharjya, Senior Faculty, Department of Zoology, Aakash Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017, India.

Choose an option to locate / access this Article:
90 days Access
Check if you have access through your login credentials.        PDF      |
|

Open Access: View PDF

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijde.0974.6099.16423.4

Abstract

In a nation where career trajectories are often linear and traditional, my journey stands as a testament to the unexplored paths that dentists can tread. Beginning as a dentist, I ventured into the world of education, leaving a trail of transformation in my wake. This article unveils my narrative, showcasing the extraordinary strides I’ve taken in reshaping the landscape of both healthcare and education, while addressing the challenge of underpaid dentists in India.

A Divergent Pathway to Education: My first steps beyond the dental chair led me to Aakash Institute Pune, where my roles expanded from patient care to molding young minds. As an Associate Professor, I found myself imparting knowledge and kindling aspirations. This transition underscored the transferable skills dentists possess, enriching the pedagogical experience for students.

A Quantum Leap: My journey took a quantum leap when I joined Adamas Career, an endeavor of the RICE Group, carving out an unconventional niche in the educational sector. This platform proved to be the crucible where I honed my craft as an educator, equipping me with skills that transcended classroom boundaries.

Aakash Kolkata and Beyond: My sojourn led me to Aakash Kolkata in 2015, where I embarked on a mission to craft more than 5000 doctors. Beyond the role of an instructor, I embraced the responsibility of grooming new faculty, shaping the next generation of educators. Stepping onto interview panels, I contributed to curating a cohort of passionate professionals who share my commitment to medical education.

A Clarion Call for Dentists: My trajectory also emphasizes the untapped avenue of NEET coaching for dentists. My journey underscores that dentists possess the aptitude to ignite the dreams of medical aspirants. In a society where careers are often linear, this call to explore NEET coaching heralds a renaissance, leveraging the depth of dental knowledge to foster future healthcare professionals.

The Clinic and Beyond: While the education sector absorbed my energy, my commitment to clinical practice remained unwavering. I owned a dental clinic, where I continue to provide patient care. Simultaneously, my role as a mentor to budding dentists brought new dimensions to my clinic. This synergy of practice and education underscored my commitment to both fields.

Catalyst for Change: As a clinical oncologist and ECG analyst, my journey ventured into healthcare realms that extended beyond dentistry. I bridged gaps between disciplines, symbolizing the adaptability of dentists in addressing multifaceted healthcare needs.

Addressing the Compensation Challenge: India’s dental community often grapples with the challenge of being underpaid, despite their pivotal role in healthcare. My journey is a clarion call to society, spotlighting the multifaceted capabilities of dentists. Education, mentorship, and healthcare services converge, amplifying their value and potential.

In a country where convention often shapes careers, my trajectory underscores the audacious avenues dentists can traverse. My journey as an educator, clinical oncologist, mentor, and clinic owner serves as an ode to the untapped potential within the dental community. It’s time for society to recognize the manifold talents of dentists, offering them a stage where their versatility can thrive, creating a more equitable future for all healthcare professionals.


Corresponding Author : Utshab Bhattacharjya,