Center Stage with a Student

Interview with D3 Student Doctor, Taha Al Hassan

Dean Krebsbach:

I understand your mother was a clinical professor at Western University School of Dentistry.  Why did you decide to attend UCLA?

Taha:

Both my parents trained as dentists in Iraq and our family moved to California in 1995. My mother and father both did advanced clinical training at UCLA, so I got to explore the campus and meet UCLA Dentistry professors as I was growing up.  It was always a dream of mine and my mother’s for me to attend UCLA, so when I got the chance I jumped on it.

Dean Krebsbach:

You gave an impressive performance at the talent show last year. Can you tell me something about your musical training?

Taha:

I started formal music lessons in the 6th grade and would practice for several hours per day. My primary instrument is the violin, but I also play piano, guitar… basically anything with strings.

Dean Krebsbach:

What do you like best about UCLA Dentistry?

Taha:

I do like the challenges of our rigorous curriculum, but sometimes my classmate and I get a little overwhelmed by the volume of work and expectations of the faculty. However, when we go outside the building for externships or to shadow doctors in the community, I realize the benefits of all the hard work and feel lucky that I am training at UCLA.

Dean Krebsbach:

What is your favorite class this year?

Taha:

No doubt. It’s got to be Pros! LOL

Dean Krebsbach:

I’m glad we can keep our sense of humor.