KARACHI: The Fatima Jinnah Dental College & Hospital (FJDC&H) in Karachi recently organised a career guidance session, led by Dr QuratulAin Malik, a distinguished graduate of the college’s 12th batch, holding a DDS degree and specialising in Periodontology after completing her training at New York University, currently practicing as a Periodontist in the United States.
She has been a demonstrator at FJDC and is the first American Board Certified Periodontist from Pakistan.
The primary objective of the session was to assist aspiring dental professionals in comprehending the various pathways to obtain dental licensure in the United States.
Dr QuratulAin provided valuable insights and strategies to facilitate a smoother and more achievable journey for the attendees.
The focus of the discussion was on five main pathways to enter the United States and obtain dental licensure, each offering unique opportunities for aspiring dentists.
The first pathway involved pursuing DDS or DMD programmes, with detailed explanations on the necessary steps to enroll in such accredited programmes.
The second pathway centered around obtaining dental licensure through Specialty Training, wherein attendees learned about completing CODA accredited programmes and obtaining licenses to practice in specific states, like TX and Virginia.
A unique option called Dependent Licensure was presented, which exclusively applies to Minnesota State. This pathway allows applicants to work under another dentist without the requirement of a DDS or specialty training. After gaining experience for a few years, they become eligible to work independently. It was emphasized, however, that rules in Minnesota change annually, and students were advised to regularly check the state website for updates.
The fourth pathway involved training under Non-CoDA accredited schools and securing work opportunities in Washington State. Importantly, this option was only valid for the current year.
Lastly, the attendees were informed about the option of obtaining a Limited License, which permits dental work in community homes.
Overall, Dr QuratulAin provided comprehensive and valuable information on these pathways, equipping the attendees with essential knowledge to make informed decisions and pursue their dental licensure aspirations effectively.
She also highlighted the availability of externship opportunities, allowing students to gain experience in the USA and then return to Pakistan.
Dr QuratulAin encouraged the attendees to proactively seek university support when facing challenges and to maintain determination and confidence.
Standing out from the competition was another crucial aspect discussed, with emphasis on showcasing unique qualities rather than merely listing achievements.
To enhance their chances of acceptance into dental programmes, Dr QuratulAin advised the students to obtain strong letters of recommendation and craft compelling personal statements that narrate their individual stories and motivations.
Regarding financing dental education, she suggested exploring loan options since scholarships are rare. She highlighted the rewarding return on investment within the dental profession, with specialists typically earning more than general dentists.
