When I had the chance to move to London to study dentistry at the best dental school in the world it was an offer I could not refuse.

I grew up in a small town in the UK called Maidenhead. When I had the chance to move to London to study dentistry at the best dental school in the world it was an offer I could not refuse. Having just been named one of the best university cities in the world, it is clear that London is a top study destination for both domestic and international students. King’s is research-driven, with many of our professors having written books and published journals which are used all over the world! This not only comes with a lot of prestige but can mean we are learning from the very best in the field. We would collaborate with other London universities to organise huge parties across London and get to know many other Chinese students. Other opportunities in university included me to become president of ABACUS in 2008. ABACUS is short for the association of the “Association of British and Chinese University students”. Although I didn’t realise it at the time, this was pivotal later in my life in becoming an entrepreneur. It helped me develop my interpersonal skills and stretch me out of my comfort zone. We would collaborate with other London universities to organise huge parties across London and get to know many other Chinese students. It’s amazing that I once thought London was a big city, only to move to Shanghai 10 years later in 2013 which was even bigger! London is a hub of higher education excellence, full of institutions that provide high-quality teaching and learning. There are so many reasons why students love studying in London, from the strong network of university facilities, the broad career opportunities, the thriving social life, and the melting pot of cultures. With the many museums, galleries and cultural outings that the city has to offer, there is always something to do in London at any time. But It’s amazing that I once thought London was a big city, only to move to Shanghai 10 years later in 2013 which was even bigger! The skills required for the interview process should not be underestimated, particularly with the contemporary MMI process. Now, I frequently help high school students particularly in international schools with their applications to top universities. to get into King’s not only do you need a good academic record but have to show that you have a life outside studying including extracurricular activities such as art and sports. I advise parents not to “force” their children into doing activities just for the CV as this can be counterproductive but rather explore what the child is genuinely interested in harnessing that passion. Furthermore the skills required for the interview process should not be underestimated, particularly with the contemporary MMI process.

For more information on dentistry at King's, visit: Dentistry - King's College London (kcl.ac.uk)

Dr. Oscar Sum is a dentist in Shanghai practicing in central Shanghai who performs Implant surgery, Orthodontics, and other advanced dental procedures. Please call scan the QR code to enquire about an appointment with Dr. Sum