Highlighting EIOH's Community: Interview with Dr. Radhika Thakkar
Dr. Radhika Thakkar Graduates from Eastman Institute for Oral Health
Dr. Radhika Thakkar, a dentist from India, recently graduated from the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Residency Program at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH). In October 2021, she presented a poster at the American Academy of Implant Dentistry annual conference, showcasing her research and skills.
Throughout her residency, Dr. Thakkar has had a unique experience, feeling like joining a team of colleagues rather than just a group of students. This collaborative environment was greatly influenced by her mentors and researchers, including Dr. Yunker, who has been a significant inspiration for her.
Dr. Thakkar's EIOH residency has not only honed her dental skills but also given her a new perspective on various procedures. The guidance of her talented and intelligent mentors has been instrumental in her growth as a dentist.
In addition to her role as a resident, Dr. Thakkar also served as a mentor for the dental assistant training program at Eastman. It has been gratifying for her to witness the journey of trainees from the classroom to the clinic.
As she moves forward, Dr. Thakkar will continue to be part of the Eastman family as a GME resident combined with a Faculty position. She looks forward to sharing her knowledge and experiences with future residents.
In her personal life, Dr. Thakkar has many interests outside of dentistry. She enjoys spending time on her hobbies, such as exploring the beautiful state parks of Rochester, where she has grown fond of the warmth and kindness of the residents. Her favorite local spot is Wegmans, a popular grocery store chain in the area.
One thing Dr. Thakkar can't live without is coffee, and she hopes to find time to learn to play the piano in the future. Her best memory of her EIOH residency is meeting people from all across the world and forming lifelong friendships.
As Dr. Thakkar reflects on her time at EIOH, she is grateful for the opportunities she has been given and the experiences she has had. She is excited to continue her journey in dentistry and looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Dr. Thakkar's education-and-self-development at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health has not only sharpened her dental skills but also contributed to her personal-growth, fostering lifelong friendships with people from diverse backgrounds. Her experiences as a mentor and resident at EIOH have equipped her with valuable lessons that she intends to share with future dental professionals.
