So, you think leadership is all about holding a leadership position or having a title?
*Think again*
Pause for a moment, and think about what’s lacking in your community or in your school. Are members of your community unaware of the dental resources available to them? Or does your pre-dental society lack an interview training seminar to help you and your peers prepare for dental school interviews? Take some time to think about what is missing from your community or school.
Once you’ve identified a problem, you can address it! This is a phenomenal way to show leadership!
Let’s look at the first example I gave and consider whether there is an opportunity to show leadership here.
EXAMPLE: PROBLEM: Members of your community are unaware of the free dental resources available to them.
OPPORTUNITY TO SHOW LEADERSHIP: Consider reaching out to an organization—such as a community health department, non-profit dental clinic, or federally qualified health center—to offer your services as a volunteer. Then, take your involvement to the next level and lead. You can offer to compile a list of all the free dental resources available to residents of the community, such as free exams and x-rays at specific clinics, or even locations where parents can obtain toothbrushes and toothpaste for children at no charge. After you’ve compiled such a list, offer to help publish it online (websites, social media, etc.). Then, find a sponsor who is willing to donate printing services and have pamphlets printed with the information. Pass out the pamphlets at community events. Voila! You’ve helped your community by increasing awareness for available dental resources.
Leadership really is this simple. If you see a problem in your community, whether that be in your school or in your neighborhood, try to think of a solution, and take action to implement the change. You will be amazed at what you can accomplish!
~Dr. Lauren
Destination: Dental School | Advising 