Future at OU

What do you see yourself doing at OU? If you could do anything at OU what would you do? What interests you?

During my short time at OU I have already become involved in many areas.  I have participated in activities both that I have enjoyed and I may pass up next time.  If I could do anything I would become more involved at UOSA, I have been learning about how the association works and how I may become a part of it.  I am running for the University College representative in UOSA and hope to become more involved.  I would eventually like to hold a director position and a position in the executive branch.  This idea of a student government is what interests me.  I began Student Council in high school thinking that it would be like student government, I would more closely relate it to a CAC committee who would plan and organize events.  Now that this Student government organization is available I would like to see where I fit in.

Leader in the Field

I have been interested in dentistry for a long time and continue to pursue my goal of getting into Dental school.  I have a strong personality that loves people and I enjoy the interaction and thought of making them smile.  Throughout my life I have shown a strong work ethic and always completed tasks with exactness.  I have had many influential people in my life to develop these traits, and I appreciate every one of them.  I decided to interview my current dentist, Dr. Austin, DDS.  The following paragraphs are my thoughts on dentistry, what I have found about the profession, and remarks by Dr. Austin.

Dr. Austin is a personable man, but can be quiet at times.  He pays special attention to knowing the patient, what they’re involved in, and what all has changed since the last visit.  The hygienists note this attention to the patient and they take special care in showing you this attention as well.  As the influential person within an organization, such as in Dr. Austin’s position, it is important to develop good attitude patterns so that the office may stay lively and personable.

Dr. Austin is a General Dentist; this entails four years of dental school. OU has a wonderful college of dentistry located at the OU Health Science Center (OUHSC).  The availability of OUHSC for the surrounding community provides a wonderful opportunity for new dentists to interact with patients. My grandmother, a retired secretary at the Goddard Health Clinic even goes to the OUHSC for her dental exams! (More information on the OU dentistry program can be found at http://dentistry.ouhsc.edu/) 

Whether you are a general dentist or a maxillofacial surgeon with nearly 10 years of specialty schooling, you must be able to treat the patient with respect.  “One of the most difficult things in a practice like this,” says Dr. Austin, “is to balance the time needed to complete the procedure accurately, and to efficiently use your time in seeing that days patients.  There is nothing the patient likes better than having an easy scheduling system, starting on time, and finishing early.”

“Leadership plays a big role in respecting the patients time.”  Dr. Austin has a team of people working under him including hygienists, receptionists, accountants and information managers.  These people if working together and smoothly can make the dental and business side of the patients visit enjoyable and stress free.  This well working group of individuals relies on a strong leader that can set an example of strong work ethic, timeliness and a good attitude.  Dr. Austin concluded his thoughts about leadership by saying this.  “I believe that my employees should start and end the day seeing their employer and I try my best to have a smile each time, I mean, that is what our business is all about!”  Dr. Austin believes the best way to prepare for a career in the medical field of any sort is to respect others peoples time, whether it is teachers or people who depend on you. Time is precious, don’t waste it.