Balancing Leadership and Research
Nicole Vanier’s experience demonstrates how a student can lead a program, conduct cutting‑edge research, and prepare for a dental career all at once. As president of the Outstanding Scholars program, she coordinated meetings, managed communications, and organized events while maintaining a full research schedule in Dr. Simon Rondeau‑Gagné’s polymer chemistry lab.
Key actions for aspiring dental students:
- Join a research‑focused student organization to build leadership experience.
- Use project‑management tools to track deadlines for coursework and research.
- Schedule regular check‑ins with mentors to stay on target.
Explore the Outstanding Scholars program to start building these skills today.
Developing Research Skills in Dental Education
Vanier’s work on polymer cross‑linking and self‑healing materials directly supports her dental studies. The hands‑on experience she gained—designing experiments, analyzing data, and troubleshooting—translates into stronger laboratory techniques and a deeper understanding of material science, both essential for modern dentistry.
Actionable steps:
- Choose a research topic that intersects with dental materials or oral health.
- Seek mentorship from faculty in the chemistry or materials science departments.
- Publish or present findings at student conferences to build a professional portfolio.
Ready to apply these skills? Apply to the University of Windsor Dental program and start your journey toward a research‑informed dental career.
Managing Time and Well‑Being
Balancing leadership, research, and coursework can be demanding. Vanier emphasizes the importance of mental health, adequate sleep, and regular breaks. She organizes events that give students a chance to unwind and connect, reducing stress and fostering resilience.
Practical tips:
- Block dedicated time each week for research, study, and self‑care.
- Use campus resources such as counseling services and wellness workshops.
- Plan short, frequent breaks during long lab sessions to maintain focus.
Interested in experiencing Windsor’s supportive environment? Schedule a campus visit to see how the university supports student well‑being.
Leveraging Community Service for a Dental Career
Beyond academics, Vanier volunteers with local dentists and participates in community events like the S’Aints Sleighing Hunger concert. These activities sharpen clinical observation skills, build empathy, and demonstrate a commitment to public service—qualities highly valued in dental school admissions.
How to get involved:
- Volunteer at dental clinics or oral health outreach programs.
- Join community‑service clubs such as the Undergraduate Chemistry Club’s tutoring program.
- Use music or other talents to organize fundraising events for health‑related causes.
Want to contribute while building a strong application? Join the Undergraduate Chemistry Club and start making an impact today.
Next Steps for Aspiring Dental Professionals
Nicole’s path shows that a blend of leadership, research, and community service creates a well‑rounded profile for dental school. To emulate her success:
- Engage in research that aligns with dental material science.
- Take on leadership roles in student organizations.
- Prioritize mental health and time management.
- Volunteer in community health settings.
- Prepare a compelling application that highlights these experiences.
Ready to take the next step? Submit your application today and begin your journey toward a career in dentistry at the University of Windsor.
