Leaving Dubai to pursue my dream of becoming a dentist in Canada was more than just a leap of faith – it was a transformative decision. On my first day of undergrad, a whirlwind of emotions rushed over me: excitement mingled with uncertainty, and the quiet ache of homesickness as I realized I was thousands of miles from home, family, and culture. It wasn’t just the challenging curriculum that overwhelmed me; it was the daunting task of rebuilding my life from the ground up in a new country.
As an international student, I encountered obstacles I hadn’t fully anticipated. Beyond the academic rigor, there were the constant realities of managing tuition, adapting to a different education system, and finding a balance between school and personal life. Isolation crept in at times, especially when I longed for the support system I had left behind back home.
One of the toughest challenges in this journey was being the first in my family to pursue dentistry. Without the guidance of relatives who had been through this process, I often felt lost – uncertain about how to strengthen my application, manage my workload, or stay competitive. Yet, it was in these moments of uncertainty that I realized the value of peer support – of having a network of fellow students who understood these unique struggles.
As I began to find my own balance, I noticed that many of my peers, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, faced even steeper hurdles. Some juggled full-time jobs while managing the intense demands of school, all while lacking the resources that could ease their academic burden. While I was fortunate to have my family’s support, many weren’t as privileged.
Witnessing these struggles sparked a determination within me to help. I made it my mission that once I got into dental school, I would support others along this journey, ensuring they didn’t feel alone. Whether it was sharing notes, lending a listening ear, or offering words of encouragement and tips, I began to see the profound impact that small acts of kindness could have. My experience as an international student deepened my empathy and reinforced the belief that no one should face dental school in isolation.
I believe wholeheartedly in the power of peer support. Throughout my journey, I’ve had the privilege of participating in student-led initiatives that provide mentoring, workshops, and tutoring, particularly for students with fewer resources. Since starting dental school, I’ve expanded my efforts by creating content on my dental Instagram account, where I share my personal journey. Through this platform, I offer insights into the challenges many of us, including myself, didn’t anticipate when beginning dental school. It has become a space for connecting with fellow students and colleagues, learning from one another, and offering guidance on navigating this challenging yet rewarding path. These connections inspire me to continue learning and growing alongside my peers while supporting others along the way.
About the Author
Mahsa Paydarnia (@mahsapaydr_dds) is a dental student at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry – Western University.