Exchange Program Participants
Meet Exchange Students
Students from around the world share a bit about themselves and the exchange program experience at Penn Dental Medicine.
Sophia Magdalena Weiberlenn (Spring 2023 participant)
School: University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
The Penn Dental Medicine Experience: During my time at Penn Dental Medicine, I was able to visit all the different departments, meet with faculty and current students. I attended lectures and observed in various clinics. Besides the curriculum I was invited to join the Penn community and participate in activities and events that I would not have had the chance to do otherwise. Everyone gave me a warm welcome and made sure I got the most out of my stay.
How the Program Expanded My Horizons: The program expanded my horizons by exposing me to the newest technologies in the dentistry field. Penn Dental Medicine’s facilities are impressive, but I was even more impressed by the relationship between faculty and students which was open and approachable, and the effort put into the students’ education. I had the chance to discuss the differences and similarities between the U.S. and Germany in terms of treatment planning, dental education and other cultural aspects. I got to meet people from all over the world and, most importantly, made new friends. We still talk on a regular basis and also discuss treatment plans for our own patients in dental school. All of these aspects broadened my perspective and made me want to continue my education in an international environment. The exchange helped me not only to grow academically, but also personally. I am very thankful for the opportunity Penn Dental Medicine gave me.
Future Goals: After graduating in December 2023, I would like to specialize in restorative dentistry, focusing on periodontology and implantology. Providing the best possible treatment to the patient is the most important aspect for me. To achieve this goal I see myself working both in clinics and research and pursuing parts of my professional education in the U.S.
Yuval Shalit (Summer 2022)
School: Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
Experience at Penn Dental Medicine:
My visit during the summer at Penn Dental Medicine was an amazing and enriching experience. During the visit I had the privilege of walking around the different departments and watching different techniques in dentistry. I also visited the digital laboratory where indirect restorations are milled and planned while using advanced technology. Beyond that, I had the privilege of meeting amazing people, some of whom I am still in touch with.
How did the program expand your horizons: This experience exposed me to innovative methods and approaches in the various disciplines, especially in the field of accessibility for patients with various disabilities. In addition, it is possible that the connections I have made will allow collaborations in the future. The experience was enriching and educational and very enjoyable.
Future goals: After graduation in August 2023 I will be interested in combining research and clinical work and try to create interesting collaborations with colleagues abroad
Wu, Tzu Ying (Summer 2023)
School: China Medical University, Taiwan
Experience at Penn Dental Medicine: I was provided with a comprehensive exchanged program that allowed me to rotate through various departments, giving us insight into advanced surgical techniques and cutting-edge technology. And I also took a lecture of digital dentistry, which really widened my horizon. Everyone was patient and enthusiastic in teaching me, making my time in Philadelphia heartwarming.
How did the program expand your horizons: The program broadened my horizons through its technology and techniques, such as the digital lab equipped with CAD/CAM machines, the endodontics department with microscopes in all dental chairs, and the educational approach for students. Beyond the clinics, engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds has illuminated both the shared traits and unique differences among people. This experience has not only enhanced my dental skills but has also taught me the importance of continuous learning and cultivating global relationships.
Future goals: After graduating in June 2025, my aspiration is to work in clinics and also engage in research activities, with the goal of eventually pursuing advanced studies in the U.S.
Dominika Domanowska (Summer 2023)
School: Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
Experience at Penn Dental Medicine: Dentistry in Poland and in the world includes similar procedures, but what I consider extremely important at Penn is the experience of teachers brought from all over the world and the willingness to share it. I appreciate every person I met during the exchange, and above all, I will take their advice to heart.
How did the program expand your horizons: The program made me want to follow a different path than before coming here. In a good way! Before coming to Penn, I was into oral surgery. However, after getting acquainted with the work of doctors/residents/students in periodontology, I saw that it looks completely different than I thought before. After the observation I really want to continue my education in USA.
Future goals: The exchange made me want to pursue further education in the United States. Especially if I choose periodontology as my life path.
Yvette Kuma-Aboagye (Fall 2023)
Dental school: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology School of Dentistry
Country: Ghana
Experience at Penn Dental Medicine: My time at Penn Dental Medicine was nothing short of exceptional. The program provided me with invaluable insights and hands-on experiences that will undoubtedly shape my career as a dental student . Penn Dental medicine Faculty and students enabled a warm and welcoming environment making me feel at home and also fostered a conducive learning atmosphere.
The expertise displayed by the team (Faculty, residents and students) was truly inspiring.
How did the program expand your horizons: The program at Penn Dental Medicine significantly broadened my horizons. I had the privilege of observing and learning from top-notch professionals, gaining exposure to cutting-edge techniques and practices in dentistry. This experience not only deepened my understanding of the field but also boosted my passion for dentistry and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Future goals: Currently exploring and considering two specializations — Oral surgery and Orthodontics. I intend to use cutting-edge methods and tools to improve smiles and oral health. I’m dedicated to advancing dental hygiene in Ghana and throughout Africa in addition to my clinical endeavors. My goal is to create campaigns that increase public awareness, make dental care easily accessible, and equip underserved groups with the information and tools necessary for their best oral health.
Parishi Marfatia (Fall 2023 Participant)
School: AMC Dental School, India
The Penn Dental Medicine Experience: During my student exchange at Penn Dental Medicine, I had an extraordinary experience that surpassed my expectations. I had the privilege of shadowing in all departments, witnessing advanced procedures like sinus lift surgery in periodontology department and full mouth restorations under general anesthesia in pediatric patients. The hands-on experience in the simulation lab with haptic technology was invaluable, as was learning digital impressions and CAD/CAM crown designing and milling techniques. Shadowing residents and attending lectures alongside PASS students provided insights into Penn Dental Medicine’s Advanced Standing program. The warm reception from students and professors alike made networking effortless and enjoyable. I am deeply impressed by the program’s comprehensive approach and am eager to return for more enriching experiences.
How the Program Expanded My Horizons: The Penn Dental Medicine international student exchange program was a transformative experience that profoundly expanded my horizons. Immersed in the forefront of dentistry, I witnessed cutting-edge technologies firsthand, igniting my passion for the field. Shadowing pediatric procedures with nitrous oxide and SDF treatments deepened my interest in pediatric dentistry.
Beyond technical skills, I marveled at the diverse collaboration among students, united in the pursuit of bringing smiles to people’s faces. Bonds formed with fellow exchange students from Israel and Penn student guides endure to this day, enriching my global network. Engaging with professors who generously shared their experiences and insights, I gained invaluable perspectives on dental practices across different socio-economic landscapes. This exposure fueled my aspiration to pursue further education in an international setting. The program not only provided lifelong experiences but also instilled a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of global dental communities. Through approachable mentors and diverse encounters, Penn’s exchange program not only enhanced my dental knowledge but also broadened my worldview, shaping me into a more globally conscious practitioner.
Future goals: In the future, I envision seamlessly intertwining clinical expertise with cutting-edge research in dentistry, bridging innovation and patient care. My goal is to pursue advanced dental education in the U.S., aiming for the pinnacle of excellence at Penn’s School of Dental Medicine, where I can contribute to transformative advancements while providing exceptional patient-centered care. This journey reflects my commitment to mastering diverse aspects of dentistry and shaping the future of oral healthcare on a global scale.
School: Tel Aviv University, Israel (Fall 2024 participants)
The Penn Dental Medicine Experience: As students from Tel Aviv University, this experience has provided us with an incredible opportunity to expand our knowledge and professional horizons. We were introduced to a diverse array of clinical techniques, lectures, and hands-on experiences, all of which were led by world-class faculty. The program’s structure allowed us to observe cutting-edge dental practices, from advanced restorative techniques to innovative approaches in patient care. One of the most impressive aspects of the program was the brand-new Special Needs Clinic, which is designed to be highly adaptable for patients with varying needs. Witnessing this level of specialized care underscored the importance of inclusivity in dental practice, something we hope to implement in our own careers. Additionally, PDM’s extensive specialty programs in fields such as orthodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery were truly inspiring, showcasing the depth of training and expertise available in different areas of dentistry.
How did the program expand your horizons: This program not only broadened our technical skills but also exposed us to new perspectives on dental care from a global standpoint. Working alongside students and faculty from various backgrounds, we gained insights into different dental systems, approaches to patient management, and the importance of research in driving forward clinical advancements. It has reinforced our belief in the value of international collaboration and learning in the ever-evolving field of dentistry.
Future Goals: This experience has deepened our commitment to excellence in dentistry. We are inspired to incorporate the knowledge and skills acquired at UPENN into our future careers, with a focus on integrating innovative techniques and maintaining the highest standards of patient care. Our goal is to continue learning and growing as dental professionals, contributing positively to the global dental community and perhaps fostering international collaborations in the future. In conclusion, we are deeply thankful for this opportunity and are excited to apply what we’ve learned to our ongoing studies and future practice