Rishi

 

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Date attended Ashmole:   2004-2011

A Levels:  Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Geography

University:  University of Birmingham

Course:  Dentistry

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What are you doing now?

I am currently working in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in a specialist head & neck cancer hospital trust, having previously worked in dental practice.

I am due to sit my Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, MJDF RCS (Eng), shortly.

I am currently studying for an MSc in Primary Dental Care with the University of Kent.

I am in the process of publishing a paper with the British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of a case of allergic-type reaction to bone grafting material for proposed dental implants which has, to date, never been reported on in the literature.

What did/do you get involved with at university?

I was a keen sportsman at university.  As such, I represented the Dental Society for the University of Birmingham for football matches against other dental schools across the country playing in the first VII and first XI teams.

During my university time, I represented the Performing Arts Society as a Social Rep for the Dental School and helped organise & present the annual “Birmingham Dental Hospital’s Got Talent Show”.

I got myself involved in helping run a homeless food shelter as I felt I had been very fortunate in life and wanted to help out those less fortunate.

What did you find most valuable about your experiences at Ashmole Academy? What skills did it help you to develop?

Ashmole helped develop my interest in Science and thus aided my career destination.  In doing so, my ability to understand basic concepts of Human Biology and Chemistry were developed, as was my passion for studying Human Geography. 

Which Programme/s did you get involved in during 6^th Form e.g. MedSoc, Oxbridge? other:

I was part of the Oxbridge programme during my 6^th Form time at Ashmole. Whilst there is no Dental School represented by either University of Oxford or University of Cambridge, I was able to engage in enriching discussions and debates on current issues around the world.  This programme helped with close support for writing my personal statement for university applications, and I would thoroughly recommend students to be a part of this programme, if appropriate for them.

What top tips would you give to other students wishing to follow a similar career to yours?

Work hard!  If you know what you want to do, research the course/career in depth to see if it really is for you.  If you don’t know yet what you would like to do, think of the subjects you enjoy or do well in and explore what possible career options are available.

How did Ashmole help you reach your goals?

I was never the highest performer at school but I was willing to work hard to achieve my goals – something Ashmole supported me with.  One of my Mathematics teachers offered a small group of us who were struggling extra support after school in order for us to succeed in our accelerated mathematics A-Level exams – something I appreciate hugely.

More than simply assisting with the academics, Ashmole helped create a social environment in which I was able to nurture my interest in sports and make some life-long friends.

Anything else you would like to tell us about yourself.

Alongside sports and an active social life, I have recently developed an interest in watercolour painting and photography, something I feel is always a nice change from a busy work life.

Please write a quote that sums up your experience at Ashmole.

‘Ashmole provides an environment in which you are fully supported to achieve the best you can for your future’