The Preclinical Blueprint: Balance, Wellbeing And Brilliance

On Thursday, 19th February, the Unibadan Association of Dental Students (UADS) hosted an online preclinical orientation for the BDS 2K28 class; Altius, via Google Meet.

The event, which was scheduled to start at 7 pm began at 7:12 pm due to some delays with arrival of students and of the subdean.

The first speaker was Dr Omowumi Femi-Akinlosotu, the subdean of Basic Medical Science, University of Ibadan, who spoke about mental health awareness.

She mentioned that mental health includes emotional, psychological and social well-being and how all three are important for resilience and stress management. She spoke about not being a lone ranger, interacting with people and also being emotionally ready. She further stated that medical school isn't about being brilliant, rather it is about consistency in reading.

She stated that a new curriculum starts with the 2k28 set, a curriculum spanning three semesters. She spoke about having strong family support, being ready for the work at hand and ensuring stable accommodation. She also emphasized the importance of good eating and health habits. 

She also mentioned that dentists and physicians are the same, the only difference being specialisation. "One priority for you as a dental student is to never see yourself as a second class citizen to those in MBBS. Pursue your goal, believe in yourself, never give up on your self, think big and look outside the box", she said.

She rounded her session up by answering questions from the students.

The second speaker was Raji Halimat who had excellent results in preclinicals and actively engaged in extracurricular activities.

She spoke on academic excellence and how to go about it. She began by stating that academic excellence is not just an event, it is a habit. It's not just high scores, but about consistency, discipline and a growth mindset. She also shared her favourite quote by one of her lecturers," The word Genius does not just exist in medicine, it's for the consistent and courageous". 

She shared study tips which worked for her, YouTube channel recommendations, app recommendations and more. She spoke on prioritizing health and balancing academics with extracurriculars. She stressed the importance of not missing classes, effective reading of slides and eating balanced meals. Also, she spoke on standing out early by participating in departmental activities and building a reputation for seriousness. 

Then her final words and encouragement was to put God first in all areas of the medical school journey, because God is the main planner and director of everyone's journey.

The third and final speaker, Adesokan Emmanuel spoke on extracurricular activities and academic excellence. He spoke about his involvement in several clubs including the Sigma club and also holding the post of Information Minister at Alexander Brown Hall among many others. He started by emphasizing that the BDS degree should remain the primary goal of dental students. He spoke on mastering core courses, attending classes and understanding materials optimally as opposed to cramming and studying past questions to maximize time.

He further stated that beyond classes and the frenzy of school, students should be involved in activities that develop professional capacity, build real world skills and enhance their portfolios. He also spoke about the three-pillar blueprint: Academic mastery, wellbeing and strategic extracurriculars. He harped on the importance of choosing activities, and learning to say No when new requests set in at inappropriate times.

He spoke on maintaining adequate sleep, eating good meals and avoiding burnout.

He concluded his session by leaving on this final note "You don't need to be everywhere. You need to be intentional. Start small and structured and stay consistent. Design your life before life designs it for you".

The Assistant General Secretary, Kehinde Aduragbemi, concluded the meeting. He asked a few questions from the preclinical freshers. There was a giveaway session. The meeting ended by 9:18 pm.

Adeitan Faith Ayomikun