• Student Corner
• Expressions Winter 2024

Students Embark on Dental Journey

HKU Faculty of Dentistry meets and greets new class of undergraduates

New BDS students embark on their academic journey.

The new cohort of freshers joining the HKU Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme formally marked the start of their professional dental journey at a series of Faculty welcome events on Induction Day on 2 September 2024.

The day kicked off with briefing sessions, beginning with Professor Mike Leung, Admissions Tutor, warmly welcoming the 90 BDS students as they set out on their new dental career path. Professor Lijian Jin, Acting Dean, then took to the stage to introduce the Faculty, highlighting its vision, mission, and global reputation. He emphasised the Faculty’s tradition of excellence in dental education, research, clinical service, and knowledge exchange, as well as its commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative learning environment for successive generations of dentists. He concluded by wishing the cohort success in their academic journey and encouraging them to make the most of the opportunities and resources available to them.

Professor Mike Leung welcomes the incoming cohort.

Professor Michael Burrow, Associate Dean for Undergraduate Education, provided an overview of the Faculty’s BDS degree course, noting how it has been designed to shape the students into becoming skilled, thoughtful, and compassionate dental professionals. He introduced various stages and features of the curriculum, including hands-on clinical training and innovative teaching approaches like problem-based learning, all designed to ensure the students receive a world-class education.

Then, Professor Colman McGrath, Clinical Professor in Dental Public Health, briefed the audience on the crucial importance of academic integrity and anti-plagiarism. He also gave detailed guidance to the students on how to effectively make use of the dental library, various academic resources, and the Faculty’s learning environment to support their academic success.

Professor Lijian Jin introduces the Faculty to the new students.

Later in the day, the new cohort had the chance to connect with senior peers and meet assigned personal tutors, who will be their guides and mentors throughout their six-year journey at the Faculty. Personal tutors have been trained to offer general academic and pastoral support, ensuring that students are well-prepared for university life and not only survive but thrive in the BDS programme.

The guidance and interactions on Induction Day provided the new students with a strong foundation, ensuring they felt welcome, well informed, and well equipped for their academic journey and future careers in dentistry.

Professor Michael Burrow explains how the curriculum is designed to train future dental professionals.

Professor Colman McGrath stresses the importance of academic integrity.

The students listen attentively to the welcome lectures.