Jessie Pickens Post #1

This week, I’m interning with an oral maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Harris, at Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Associates in Metairie. I chose this internship because I’m hoping to go to dental school after college, and I’d really like to specialize in something like oral maxillofacial surgery. I’m so lucky to be following around Dr. Harris! He’s insanely smart and such a talented surgeon, but at the same time, he is an expert at talking to and connecting with his patients. (He is also hilarious and an excellent teacher.)
I can tell that his main concern is his patients and their well-being, and he will bend over backwards to make sure their needs are met. Just by observing his consults and how he interacts with his patients during surgeries, I’ve learned so much about the importance of communication and making your patients feel at ease. I’ve also learned that this job is something I would absolutely love to do everyday. It’s the perfect balance of working with people to improve their lives (which is greatly impacted by the healthiness of your teeth!) and working with your hands.
I’m also grateful for the kindness of Dr. Ismail and the rest of the staff at the office. They all go out of their way to teach me things and talk to me—in addition to their own hectic schedules. By observing the interactions of everybody who works in that office, I’ve recognized the value of a positive work environment. They truly do work as a team, and this teamwork is of the utmost importance to providing their patients with the ideal care.