Perceptions of a dental career among successful applicants for dentistry compared with those of fifth-year dental students.

摘要: Purpose of the study A focused and vocational university programme such as dentistry may limit opportunities for graduates who find that clinical is not them. It important those advising recruiting people into profession should ascertain whether applicants have a realistic idea what lies ahead. Basic procedures On presumption final-year undergraduate students acquired more impression potential entrants, it was interest to investigate possible differences in perceptions between two groups. The been categorised compared by anonymous questionnaire dental (n = 79) successful 109) at same institution United Kingdom. overall response rate 100% both cases. Main findings clear groups are concerned with personal professional matters followed career financial matters, respectively. Health pose least concern. However number significant emerged. Significantly fewer (p 0.001) considered positive contribution society. greater proportion mathematics school be useful 0.001). valued technical manual skills contributing 'good' dentist More mentioned occupational flexibility, security independence aspect 0.001); however identified job stresses Principal conclusion Applicants appeared 'idealistic' view than senior students, similarities responses encouraging future profession.