'WCSH' reports on the UNE College of Dental Medicine’s inaugural graduation
Faculty and soon-to-be graduates from the College of Dental Medicine (CDM) spoke with WCSH about improving access to oral healthcare in Maine, and how the CDM is working to address Maine’s shortage of dentists.
Of the students who have announced their post-graduation plans, 47% will be staying in New England, and nearly half of the inaugural students from Maine are remaining in-state to practice.
“I think it's really important for us as a younger generation to really keep the state going," said Dustin Nadeau, who will be practicing in Newport. Nadeau, whose parents are from Madawaska, completed clinical rotations in Bangor and Gorham, New Hampshire where he gained additional firsthand experience working with diverse patient populations.
Adam L’Italien, who will be practicing in Lincoln, shared his enthusiasm for returning to the area where he grew up. "I think it's an advantage for me being from that area, and already kind of knowing what I am getting myself into,” he said. "I'm excited and looking forward to starting there."
To learn more about the College of Dental Medicine, visit www.une.edu/dentalmedicine
To apply, visit www.une.edu/admissions