Walking through downtown Montreal, it is easy to get captivated by McGill University’s majestic campus, where history and innovation exist side by side.
As someone who has always been drawn to history – an interest inspired by my mother, a history teacher – I appreciate the significance of landmarks like the Hochelaga Rock, Roddick Gates and historical campus buildings. These landmarks reflect the land’s rich heritage and the importance of acknowledging our collective past. It was inspiring to study at an institution that not only values history but also embraces progress, evident in the balance between the historic Strathcona Building and the state-of-the-art new clinical facilities of the Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences nearby.
The Strathcona Building, with its Victorian-era architecture and the names of professors etched into its walls, was a constant source of inspiration. It reminded me of the long-standing tradition of excellence in education that I was a part of. The new clinical facilities, with their cutting-edge technology and thoughtfully designed spaces, exemplified McGill’s commitment to staying at the forefront of dental innovation and education. This exposure not only fueled my passion for academics but also shaped my approach to teaching, as I now strive to integrate both foundational knowledge and modern advancements into dental education. Learning in both these historic and modern spaces at McGill gave me a unique perspective, blending legacy with the innovation of the future.
From my first interaction with McGill, its welcoming and supportive environment stood out. I had the chance to tour the facilities and meet Dr. Samer Abi Nader, a faculty member whose passion for dentistry and teaching was awe inspiring. This reassured me that I was joining not just a great program, but a community of dedicated educators and learners.
One of the most humbling experiences of my journey was being interviewed by Dr. Jocelyne Feine, a world-renowned expert in orofacial therapies and the lead author of the historic McGill Consensus Statement on Overdentures. Her innovative work continues to shape global dental standards, and I am honored to have interacted with someone of her caliber. To this day, when I mention that I am a McGill alum at conferences, colleagues immediately reference “the McGill Consensus,” a testament to the University’s lasting impact on the field.
As a student, McGill’s faculty members not only guided me through foundational knowledge but also prepared me to contribute to the field through teaching and research. My research mentor professor, Dr. Louis Z. G. Touyz, shared words that shaped how I view my role, emphasizing the complexity and responsibility of the profession: “Being a dentist is like running a small hospital. You’re your own radiologist, pathologist, surgeon, and manager.” His words offered a perspective that continues to guide me.
McGill’s commitment to research also profoundly influenced my path. Through the Summer Research Scholarship program, I pursued academic projects that ignited my passion for inquiry. The University’s strong emphasis on research provided a platform to collaborate with faculty, publish my work, and develop the skills I now use daily as an academic.
Today, I teach digital dentistry and dental technology, areas that reflect how far the profession has advanced. While technology constantly evolves, the universal principles I learned at McGill – curiosity, precision, and a commitment to excellence – remain timeless. These principles guide me as I design courses, mentor students, and push the boundaries of innovation in dental education.
What stands out most about McGill is how it prepares students not just for their careers, but for a lifetime of learning and adaptability. The lessons I learned there – whether in a classroom, research lab, or clinical setting – have shaped my approach to teaching and practicing dentistry. McGill’s influence is woven into every aspect of my career, from the way I educate students to the way I approach challenges in the field.
Looking back, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities and mentorship I received at McGill. They provided me with a foundation that continues to support my growth as a clinician, educator, and lifelong learner. The University’s legacy of excellence and innovation is something I carry with me, inspiring me to uphold those same values in my work every day.