My first contact with dentistry was when I first met a family member. I was so shocked by the amount of interest he had in dentistry. Arguing about running his practice, finances and materials seemed quite stressful at first. However, working with him allowed me to witness the relationship between dentists and their patients. The constant hustle and bustle of a studio seemed really intriguing to me, as did the growing industry with a myriad of opportunities and specialisms. I can confidently carry out Chemistry and Biology exercises by devising my own method, which makes these A level subjects of particular interest to me. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Another instance that shaped my interest in dentistry was when I was told to leave work experience in the room, but I couldn't understand why. Upon returning, the private dentist said: "Good thing you left, this one was nervous." I couldn't understand why the dentist could be such an anxiety-provoking scenario for some. If you brush your teeth twice a day and floss, what are you afraid of? After discussing with the dentist, he told me about dental phobias and highlighted some of the supports available. I wanted to know why people suffer from dental phobia and what can be done to treat it, which led me to create my own EPQ project about it, following the conversation I had. This project allowed me to grow personally and understand the nature of the professionalism I will have to deal with in the future. I believe I possess the characteristics that a dentist should have to reduce the number of phobic patients which I have developed through my charity work and with the subject knowledge I have gained from studying positive psychology; techniques like mindfulness can really help patients. To better understand the clinical skills needed for dentistry and subsequently fuel my interest in the topic, I actively sought work experience, participated in workshops and attended voluntary lectures. Among the highlights of my time, I was taught how to suture at Bristol Royal Infirmary and then had the opportunity to witness the skill being applied during work experience when the dentist placed implants. The private dentist explained to me that the titanium in implants fuses with the bone and how its mechanism is a mystery in the dental world. He then deepened my understanding and interest in orthodontics by explaining the differences between invisalign and conventional braces. He also introduced me to an orthodontic technician who taught me how to bend an Adams cradle for a removable appliance. Working with a conservative specialist, I was amazed by the different methods of preserving a tooth, from inlays and onlays to bridges and fillings. Being part of the Bristol Sutton Trust Summer School has provided me with a range of laboratory skills whilst taking pharmacology and biochemistry lectures. I was also guided through a patient's journey in a hospital and learned the importance of each member of the NHS team upon patient arrival and after care. I have a special value for my local radio show which I have hosted for the last three years on a weekly basis which has given me the confidence to be the well spoken person that I am. To operate efficiently, a dentist must work well within a versatile team: including technicians, receptionists and nurses. The show not only taught me how to present,.