As a third-year dental student, Kamal Patel is gaining confidence in the clinic while exploring a growing interest in oral and maxillofacial surgery. A student ambassador and leader in several student organizations, Patel says the supportive culture at the UAB School of Dentistry has shaped both his clinical experience and his path forward in dentistry.
Where did you attend college?
For undergrad, I attended the University of Georgia, where I earned a degree in biochemistry and molecular biology with a minor in mathematics.
Where did you grow up?
I’m a Georgia boy. I was born and raised in Perry, Georgia, right in the heart of the state.
What made you choose dentistry?
I was actually torn between dentistry and medicine since high school. I shadowed both medical and dental providers, and what stood out to me in dentistry was the opportunity to truly connect with patients.
In dentistry, you see patients twice a year which allows you to build relationships over time. That connection makes it possible to provide more personalized care. Getting to know patients — where they’re from, their families, what they enjoy doing — is something I really value. I think those relationships are what make the profession so rewarding.
Why did you choose the UAB School of Dentistry?
I toured a few dental schools but what stood out to me about UAB was the positive environment here.
“At some schools, the atmosphere can feel very competitive, where students are focused on climbing to the top individually. At UAB, I saw something very different. There was a genuine sense that students and faculty were working together so everyone could succeed.”
I’ve been fortunate enough to get to know everyone in my class. I’ve had real conversations with them, gone to lunch with them, and built friendships that make dental school even more meaningful. I’ve also seen that support in action. In lab or clinic, if someone needs help, people are always willing to step in. That kind of culture is hard to miss here.
What has been your favorite thing about UAB so far?
My main reason for choosing UAB is definitely the atmosphere here at the school. You see it among students and faculty alike. People want to see each other succeed.
“In the joy of others lies our own.”
In clinic, for example, if you don’t have a patient scheduled, you’ll often assist another student. I actually enjoy that because when I’ve needed help, others have stepped in to assist me.
More recently, second-year students have started coming into clinic on Fridays. It gives them a chance to get comfortable in the environment and start assisting or observing procedures they’ll soon be doing themselves, which I think is really valuable.
Tell us about your clinical experience so far.
Starting clinic this year as a D3 was honestly a little scary at first. When you first walk into clinic and realize you’re responsible for your own patients, whether it’s a cleaning, a filling, a crown prep, dentures, or another procedure, it can feel intimidating.
But having classmates who are going through the same experience, along with D4 students who have already been through it, makes a huge difference. They’re always willing to share advice or step in when you need guidance.
Over time, that fear starts to turn into confidence. With each day in clinic, I feel that confidence growing more and more.
What are you most looking forward to as you become a D4 this fall?
What I’m most excited about is helping the incoming D3 students.
If I think back to how many times a D4 helped me when I was starting out in clinic, I don’t think I’d be where I am now without that support. Being able to return that favor and help students who are stepping into clinic for the first time is something I’m really looking forward to.
What student organizations are you involved in?
I serve as a student ambassador, where I give tours to prospective students interested in dentistry. I really enjoy sharing what makes UAB special. I help with tours, interview days, and student panels.
I’m an officer in the Asian Dental Student Organization. Through that group, we celebrate cultures from across Asia and host events that highlight traditions and holidays from different communities. I’m also involved with the Student Research Group, which supports students interested in research and presenting their work at symposiums.
Most recently, I helped start the Digital Dentistry Club at UAB. As technology continues to evolve in dentistry, it’s important for students to stay ahead of those changes so we’re prepared when we enter practice.
Have any faculty members made a particular impact on your dental education?
There are many people who have made an impact on my dental journey so far, including my classmates. But one faculty member who has really stood out is Dr. McClenny. He is one of the advisors in our pre-clinical dentistry lab and helps guide students as we begin learning procedures.
During my first year, I also went on a mission trip through CMMA that he helped organize. It ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve made. I was able to connect with classmates and serve people who needed care, and Dr. McClenny made sure everyone felt included and supported. That meant a lot to me.
What has been one of your favorite memories at the school so far?
My favorite memory so far has been our White Coat day.
It was the first time that my friends from college and family members were all in Birmingham at the same time. Usually people visit one at a time, but that day everyone was there together. When my name was called and I walked across the stage, I heard a loud cheer from the audience. It was a really rewarding moment.
What accomplishment are you most proud of so far in dental school?
There are so many things, but starting the Digital Dentistry Club is something I’m very proud of.
It took a long time to get approved and there were definitely moments where it felt like it might not happen. But we kept working through the process and eventually got it started. It’s still growing and evolving, but I’m proud that we were able to bring that opportunity to students at the school.
What is one of the most important lessons you’ve learned in dental school so far?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that making mistakes is okay.
Growing up, I was always hard on myself and tried not to make mistakes. But in professional school you’re constantly learning new things and sometimes things don’t go perfectly. What matters is learning from those moments, understanding what happened and how you can improve next time.
Having faculty and classmates around you who can guide you through those situations makes a big difference.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am interested in pursuing oral surgery residency.
I’ve already completed three externships — one here at UAB and two at other schools — where I spent time working alongside residents, observing surgeries, assisting with procedures, and learning what daily life in the specialty looks like. Those experiences confirmed for me that oral surgery is where I see my future.
“The UAB OMFS externship was amazing. It was actually what made oral surgery catch my eye.”
What advice would you give to prospective dental students?
Positivity and mindset are incredibly important.
There will be days where things don’t go the way you hoped, but staying positive and continuing to move forward makes all the difference.
It’s not something you master overnight. But if you keep working at it, you can develop a mindset that supports not only your education but your life overall.
Student Voices is a Q&A series highlighting the experiences and perspectives of UAB School of Dentistry students. Explore our Student Excellence news feed to read more Student Voices stories.
Curious to hear more Student Voices? Visit our Student Excellence news feed for more Q&As with UAB dental students.