This past week, the University of Maryland School of Dentistry held its commencement ceremony for new graduates. And, one week ago, Howard University School of Dentistry held its ceremony.

At the UMSOD ceremony, Dean Mark Reynolds told the new graduates, “This day, convocation day, affirms the commitment, dedication, hard work that each of you has taken to the oral health profession.”

I’m certain that each of us, no matter how far away we are from our own convocation, remembers this day with a tremendous amount of pride and a bit of trepidation as we entered the professional world.

As these new dentists enter the first phase of their careers, I have wishes for both experienced dentists and new graduates.

• Experienced dentists: Provide mentorship opportunities for these new professionals. This can be done through our MSDA New Dentist Committee, through the school, or simply one-on-one with an individual you may know. Too often our young dentists feel overwhelmed and have so many questions, they don’t even know where to start. I hope MSDA members will take the first step, provide guidance and answer questions.
   
• New dentists: Take the leap and get involved. Organized dentistry has opportunities for everyone to learn and excel. The New Dentist Committee at the MSDA offers incredible opportunities for camaraderie, experiences, and learning. And, if that isn’t your interest, there are a myriad of other committees, CE courses, and component organizations to be involved in.
   

Veteran dentists and new dentists alike who want to be involved with the New Dentist Committee should contact Dr. Brenda Shah, chair of the committee, at brendashah1@gmail.com; Mr. Greg Buckler, MSDA Executive Director, at greg@msda.com, or Ms. Chrys Bell, MSDA Director of Membership, at newdentist@msda.com.

And, I would be remiss if I didn’t invite every new dentist and MSDA member to be a part of the Legislative Affairs Committee!

Congratulations to the new graduates, and welcome to a wonderful profession.