A childhood trip to the dentist proved life-changing for Niamh Jones.
The Coleg Cambria student is now set to take her first steps towards a career in dentistry, having secured a place to study the subject at Cardiff University.
Niamh, 18, from Wrexham, decided to pursue the profession after fracturing her two front teeth. The treatment she received left a lasting impression and inspired her ambition to one day help others in the same way.
“That experience really stayed with me,” said Niamh, a former pupil at The Maelor School in Penley.
“It made me realise how important a smile can be to someone’s confidence and how rewarding it would be to work in a job that helps people in such a personal way.”
At Coleg Cambria’s Yale Sixth Form, Niamh studied A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths. She went on to receive multiple university offers before choosing Cardiff, having attended its Dentistry Summer School through the SEREN Network.
During her time at Cambria, Niamh immersed herself in the support and enrichment opportunities available. She became a member of the college’s Medic Society, where she gained insight into university entry requirements, prepared for the UCAT exam, and benefitted from mock interviews with feedback from doctors and medical students.
“The Medic Society gave me the confidence and preparation I needed,” she added.
“The mock interviews and guidance on my application were a big part of why I was successful.”
Away from her studies, Niamh is a gifted musician. She is working towards her Grade 8 piano, plays violin in local orchestras – including at the North Wales International Music Festival – and has sung with the Wrexham County Choir.
She expressed gratitude to tutor Nora Richardson for her support and encouragement throughout her time at Cambria.
Gareth Jones, Assistant Principal and Head of Yale Sixth Form, said: “Niamh’s journey shows how one moment of care can inspire a future career. Her drive, talent and determination make her a fantastic role model for others. We’re incredibly proud of what she has achieved and excited for her future.”
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