Middle Eastern Duo Dares to Pursue American Success Story
The University of Rochester's Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH) offers training for dentists to become specialists, and two such individuals, Drs. Almirza and Alwaely, have recently been accepted into the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program.
The AEGD program at EIOH participates in the National Matching Services (NMS) Dental Match, specifically in Phase II of the match process. This means applicants typically apply through the centralised Dental Match system. To be eligible, applicants must be graduates of accredited dental schools (DDS or DMD degree) and be licensed or eligible for licensure to practice dentistry in the US.
The application process commonly includes submission of standardised documents such as official dental school transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, curriculum vitae (CV), National Board Dental Examination scores, and interviews. Eligibility and detailed requirements, including minimum GPA, licensure status, and deadlines, should be confirmed directly from the Eastman Institute or University of Rochester’s official AEGD program website or admissions office.
Drs. Almirza and Alwaely have demonstrated their dedication and skills throughout their careers. In 2019, they were accepted into a 6-month Preceptorship at EIOH. During this time, Dr. Furqan Alwaely showcased her passion for treating patients with special needs, while Dr. Mohammed Almirza demonstrated his strong work ethic and willingness to help wherever needed.
Their acceptance into the AEGD program the following year was a testament to their hard work. Dr. Almirza has functioned as a teaching assistant in Oral Surgery, Endodontics, and Orthodontics, while Dr. Alwaely has functioned as a teaching assistant in Endodontics, the treatment of patients with Special needs, and complex medical conditions.
Dr. Alwaely has also been encouraged to apply for a fellowship with the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) program by Dr. Adela Planerova, dental site director at the medical center's Complex Care Center.
Dr. Mohammed Almirza's gentle demeanor, ability to get along with everyone, and desire to make things right have been noted as qualities that help him excel. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he gave up his administrative time to help in all clinics. His commitment to patient care and professional development has been recognised by Dr. Sangeeta Gajendra, clinical chief of Community Dentistry, who expressed her pleasure of getting to know Drs. Almirza and Alwaely.
The admissions rate for the institute is very competitive, with only 50 open spots out of approximately 1200 applications each year. Drs. Almirza and Alwaely moved across the country to Rochester, NY, enrolled their sons in school, and asked for assistance from the institute's ambassador in the lobby to be accepted into the program. Their perseverance and determination have paid off, as they are now on their way to becoming specialists at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health.
[1] For more information about the NMS Dental Match, visit https://www.natmatch.com/dental/
- The AEGD program at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH) offers a lifelong learning opportunity for dental professionals, providing skills training and career development through online education and learning resources.
- Drs. Almirza and Alwaely have demonstrated a commitment to their education and self-development, having pursued both a Preceptorship and the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program at EIOH.
- The competitive admissions process for the AEGD program at EIOH requires applicants to have completed accredited dental school, as well as demonstrating a strong work ethic, good interpersonal skills, and a dedication to patient care and professional development.
