Podcast Episode Details
Back to Podcast Episodes
The Unseen Curriculum series #1 – Navigating Dental School’s Hidden Lessons
Hosted by Michael Shambira
Ever wondered how others make dental school look easy while you’re struggling to stay afloat? You’re not alone. In this powerful episode of the Dental Head Start Podcast, final-year student Michael Shambira and Dr. Ricky Wasef dive into the hidden aspects of dental education that no one teaches but everyone experiences.
Learn how to:
- Navigate the challenges of dental school while staying true to yourself
- Build resilience through difficult clinical experiences
- Develop effective communication skills that create trust with patients
- Balance professional expectations with personal growth
- Find your unique strengths instead of comparing yourself to others
This candid conversation reveals that dental school tests more than just your clinical skills – it challenges your identity. Through burnout, failures, and self-doubt, Michael and Ricky share how authenticity and vulnerability become your greatest strengths.
Whether you’re feeling exhausted, ambitious, or somewhere in between, this episode offers practical wisdom for your dental journey from those who’ve walked the path.
Ready to discover the unseen curriculum? Listen now and join the conversation by sharing your own dental school experiences in the comments below!
Key Moments
00:00 – Introduction to the Unseen Curriculum
02:30 – Meet Dr. Ricky Wasef
05:15 – Transitioning from High School to University
08:23 – Finding Identity Through Change
11:47 – Building Resilience in Dental School
15:30 – Overcoming Comparison with Peers
19:48 – The Power of Vulnerability and Connection
23:40 – Communication as a Clinical Strength
27:13 – Building Patient Trust and Rapport
30:45 – Effective Patient Communication Strategies
34:22 – Managing Personal Expectations
38:10 – Developing Clinical Skills Methodically
41:05 – Three Do’s of Dental School
44:18 – Three Don’ts for Dental Students
47:30 – Finding Self-Acceptance and Respect
50:35 – Final Reflections and Closing Thought
Dr Ricky Wasef
Dr Ricky Wasef is a recent dental graduate who’s experienced the reality of transitioning from university to the workforce — complete with its highs, lows, and unexpected les
Published on 2 weeks, 3 days ago