Former Carmel degree student, Laura Poole, has not only graduated from The University of Liverpool School of Dentistry, she has also received the Raj Srivastava Prize in Professionalism*.
Laura left school at the age of sixteen with, in her words, “minimal qualifications and a passion for a future career in Dentistry.” In 1998 she secured a job as a Trainee Dental Nurse and studied at night school for two years, gaining her National Certificate in Dental Nursing in 2000. To further her success, in 2002 she gained her qualification in Oral Health Education, and later achieved her Dental Radiography and Extended Duties Dental Nursing qualifications in 2003 and 2011.
After working for a year as a trainee within the industry, Laura started looking for a degree course to challenge and improve her skill set. It was at this time that she found out about the Foundation to Health Studies Year Zero degree course here at Carmel. “I couldn’t believe what I was reading!” Laura told us. “I could actually have the opportunity to study to become a Dentist! This was a dream.” Unfortunately, at the time, Laura did not have the correct entry requirements, so after giving up her job, she returned to college to study the relevant GCSEs. The following year, Laura reapplied and was accepted onto the Foundation to Health Studies Year Zero course. She then relocated to Liverpool from her home town in Scotland ready to begin the next chapter in her life.
Laura’s academic journey began in 2012. Six years later Laura shared this about her experience. “On July 17th 2018, I graduated as a Dentist. I didn’t think I was clever enough to ever be a Dentist. All this would not have been possible without the brilliant teaching and support I received at Carmel College. The enthusiasm of the staff is amazing and the Year 0 course more than helps to prepare you for dental school.” Dr Laura Poole now works in a lovely training practice, back home in Scotland!
Here at Carmel, we are so proud of Laura! Her story is testament to her determination to never give up on your dream!
Congratulations Laura and best wishes for your future in Dentistry. #inspiring
*Raj Srivastava Prize in Professionalism. Awarded to the student who, in the opinion of the Final BDS Board of Examiners, has evidenced exemplary professionalism during their time on the BDS Dentistry Degree.
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