Being a university student is an exciting time to learn and grow, but it also presents the challenge of balancing school with overall health and wellbeing. That’s why the UBC Faculty of Dentistry created a special Student Wellness Fund to support students in prioritizing their mental and physical health so they can thrive.
“Being a dental student isn’t easy – the curriculum is demanding, and many of our students also have commitments outside of school, adding to their busy schedules,” says Dr. Andrea Esteves, Dean pro tem. “I value any opportunity to focus on my overall wellbeing and encourage our students to do the same. A balanced lifestyle is essential to their educational experience and a skillset our students can take into their careers.”
The fund was established to celebrate the Faculty’s 60th anniversary, and an advisory committee, including several UBC Dentistry students and the Faculty’s in-house counsellor, Lisa John, has been set up to ensure the funds directly impact students’ wellbeing.
“It’s hard for students to focus on physical and emotional wellbeing because we tend to get bogged down with studying, but I need to take care of myself and balance wellness to be the best healthcare provider for my patients,” shared committee member Alice Wang (BDSc 2026 candidate).
The Faculty is grateful for the generous support of two donors, who independently donated $25,000 of match funding to the UBC Dentistry 60th Anniversary Student Wellness Fund! This match will provide the opportunity to raise $100,000 to help establish the fund and provide a framework for the advisory committee to map out an action plan.
Broadreach Strategic Planning Inc.
Chris George and Marc Schouten are no strangers to a demanding work life. The duo run Broadreach Strategic Planning Inc., a boutique financial advising and wealth management practice. Over the past decade, they have found ways to prioritize their health and balance work and wellness – whether it be taking time outside of the office on a sunny afternoon or going for an energizing midday walk.
Chris and Marc have worked with hundreds of UBC Dentistry students and understand how overwhelming school and life can be as oral healthcare professionals. They see the value in giving students the opportunity to learn about the importance of work-life balance and helping them develop a healthy lifestyle during school that they will carry with them long after graduation. Broadreach Strategic Planning Inc. is passionate about supporting UBC Dentistry, and giving to the Student Wellness Fund is yet another way they are showing their commitment.
Madaisky Pollock LLP
As a UBC Dentistry Alumni Partner, Madaisky Pollock has a long history of supporting students in every step of their journey to becoming dental professionals. The team is especially passionate about wellness, and their office promotes the importance of overall health by having team lunches around a harvest table several times a week, daily stretch breaks, a yoga room and off-site retreats. Supporting dentistry students to share their passion for wellness felt like the perfect fit for Madaisky Pollock.
Being an oral healthcare professional has many physical and mental demands, and Madaisky Pollock is excited to support an initiative that will give students the tools they need to manage stress while also providing them with unique opportunities to feel refreshed and energized.