Student spotlight: Ayesha Iqbal

Ayesha Iqbal is a third-year dental student in the UNMC College of Dentistry Advanced Standing Dental Program.

My background:

I am from Kashmir but I grew up in Islamabad, Pakistan. I completed my bachelor's degree in dental surgery from the Islamic International Dental College and then worked in the college's department of periodontology for three years. The experience gave me excellent exposure to various procedures, diagnosis and treatment planning. I also developed teaching skills and arranged many community outreach and preventive health care programs.

After coming to the United States, I studied for my NBDE exams and worked as a dental assistant in New York for one and a half years before being accepted to UNMC and moving to Nebraska.
 
Why did you decide to pursue dentistry? 
 
My brother, who is a physician, inspired me to pursue a career in health care. I chose dentistry because I'm able to build long-term relationship with my patients and improve their confidence. I am captivated by the fact that we can put others at ease by carefully evaluating their needs and methodically carrying out procedures which can make a huge difference in patients' lives. 
 
What are some of the differences you see between dentistry in your home country and dentistry in the United States?
 
My experience in Pakistan helped me develop good hand skills, and most of my work was done in underprivileged areas so I learned how to adapt to different situations and patient needs.

When I moved to the United States, I was very excited to have the opportunity to learn about new technologies and advancements in dentistry, including digital dentistry, CAD/CAM, implants and different softwares and insurance systems. I also am learning about patient-focused care, evidence-based diagnosis and treatment planning.

As for patient care, patients in the United States are more educated and concerned about their dental health and aesthetics.
 
About me:
 

• My family, especially my mom, are big supporters of gender equality and women's rights, especially a woman's right to get an education and make decisions for herself without depending on others. My mom is a constant source of motivation for me.
• My favorite things to do on a day off are cycling, cooking, trying new restaurants and visiting new places.
• After graduation, I plan to apply for an orthodontics residency. I eventually want to open my own practice and participate in community outreach programs.

What are some of your favorite things about UNMC?
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When I interviewed at UNMC, I really liked the faculty and believed that the small class sizes would allow me more opportunities to interact with and learn from them.

Our professors are very approachable, helpful and supportive. They share their personal experiences, which helps me understand their points of view, and I appreciate that they promote research and teach us evidence-based treatments. My classmates are very friendly.