The following part-time instructors answered the question: Why you work at the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry?
“I love dentistry, it’s something I devoted my life to. I’m still learning, but let’s be honest, who isn’t.”
– Dr. Sylvia In, DMD
“Returning to the University of Manitoba’s Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry was a very good decision I made five years ago. While I was hesitant about going back to the school where I received my dentistry degree, it has become something I very much enjoy doing every week.
As an acting clinical instructor, I get to interact with the third- and fourth-year students by watching over their treatment of clinic patients. The students, support staff and faculty has always treated me with great respect, which makes me even more eager to help the next generation of dentists in any way I can. I have learnt a great deal while working in clinic, whether it be different treatment approaches from the instructors or brushing up on my dental jargon from the students.
My participation has also been a great way to connect with other Winnipeg dentists and dental specialists and I have grown some good relationships that I would not have had otherwise.
While instructing at the school, I gain a sense of giving back and dental community involvement.”
– Dr. Marc Thevenot, DMD
“I believe it when I say, and take great pleasure in saying, that the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry is one of the finer dental education programs in Canada, if not North America. Although I might be accused of being a bit of a “homer,” in that, I too am a graduate of this fine institution.
I always have felt a debt of gratitude to the College and participating in the teaching of the undergrads has given me that unique sense you get when things come full circle.
While working at the College I have had that feeling of belonging to something that is much greater than yourself, and the sense of pride that comes with that. You get to see that when we all pull in the same direction that great things can be accomplished!”
– Dr. Murray White, DMD
“Being a part-time instructor at the College of Dentistry is enjoyable. The opportunity to meet and work with the students helping them become dentists is very rewarding. It is important and beneficial to Manitoba dentists to have a College of Dentistry in our province and I would encourage everyone to become an instructor at the College if the opportunity is presented.”
– Dr. Heinz Scherle, DMD
“Although I have only been working at the College of Dentistry for a couple of months now, it has been a tremendous experience and opportunity. It is a great way to give back to the school and a chance to see and interact with old faces. The personal goal for me was to not only gain valuable experience in a teaching environment, but also to provide a positive experience for the students. Seeing the first-year students in the clinic reminds me of my time at the College of Dentistry during my first year of dental school and the novelty that dental school offers. My favorite part is seeing the growth and the joy of the students as they manage their way through their own path in the world of dentistry. Working at the College of Dentistry has been a great experience thus far and it is truly rewarding.“
– Dr. JR Salinas DMD, B.Sc
“I love teaching, it is very rewarding! I love getting to know the students and watching them grow in their skills. I am reminded of when I was a student and all the guidance my instructors gave me, and I enjoy being able to now provide that guidance and support to the students. Teaching has also led to great friendships with the colleagues I teach with. I recommend teaching at the dental college for those who have a passion for dentistry and a heart for seeing others grow.”
– Dr. Natalie Haviva Rosenthal Harder, BSc(Dent), DMD, Class of 2019.
“Twenty-six years ago, when I graduated from Boston University’s endodontics program, only two schools in the entire world taught exclusively Schilder’s technique of warm vertical compaction – one was Boston University; the other was the University of Manitoba. The University of Manitoba has a unique and privileged pedigree with regards to its teaching of endodontics. Warm vertical compaction is now considered the standard of care and is taught universally throughout the world. When I graduated from BU, Dr. Schilder expected his graduates to be his “voice,” to educate others in his techniques, principles and philosophy. I cannot think of a better place to be that voice than at the University of Manitoba. At the school I’m in the company of colleagues who share the same passion for teaching as I do, and I’m surrounded by the youthful enthusiasm of the students. Never a day when I leave the school, do I not feel a little more spring in my step.”
– Dr. Terry Rebizant, DMD, CAGS
“I have been a practicing dentist for 40 years and continue to thoroughly enjoy my profession. Dentistry has allowed me to be creative, driven and focused in a health-care environment where patient care is of the utmost importance. Throughout my career as a clinical dentist, consultant, mentor, partner and Registrar of our provincial dental association, I have taught/mentored dental students at the Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry either part-time or full-time. It has allowed me to give back to my chosen profession and help to mould our next generation of dentists.
Dentistry is a fluid profession. Technology has been at the forefront for some time now and provides an ever changing and challenging landscape for dentists to manage. The College works diligently to ensure our students receive the highest quality education in a supportive environment.
On most days at the College, I receive more than I give, and am grateful for the opportunity. Chatting with energetic dental students fuels my passion for our profession. You can make a difference in the lives of dental students, patients and your fellow teaching colleagues by getting involved and sharing your wisdom and experience.
Teaching continues to enrich my life. Our profession needs you in the name of service and leadership. Get involved, share your knowledge and skills. Manitobans will benefit.“
– Dr. Patricia L. Ling, BSc., DDS., MSc., FICD
“As a dentist with over 30 years of experience, I find it very rewarding to share practical tips on patient care and treatment with the students. Theory is one thing, but the oversight of dentists with many years of clinical experience is a valuable educational tool.”
– Dr. Manuel Resendes, DMD
“I am so grateful for the instructors that I had in dental school and feel like this is my way to give back. It is so rewarding to work with the students in the clinic who are so excited about dentistry, it helps to renew that same excitement in me!”
– Dr. Shelley Tottle-Mollot, DMD