Adam, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center: Advize Career Interview
A career as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, as described by Adam, is a dynamic blend of patient care and surgical expertise.
The path involves undergraduate studies in relevant fields, strategic externships, and a competitive residency. Daily responsibilities include treating patients, developing treatment plans, and mentoring residents.
Key skills include patience, curiosity, and a strong work ethic.
The most rewarding aspects include directly impacting patient care and seeing tangible results from surgical interventions, as well as the personal fulfillment derived from teaching and mentoring.
Challenges include communication with patients and administrative burdens, but the significant lessons learned emphasize patience and an open mind, in contrast to the initial urge to immediately "fix everything".
Undergraduate students interested in this field should consider entry-level positions such as medical or dental assistant or surgical assistant.
Adam's journey highlights the importance of consistent effort and excelling at each educational stage to achieve success in this demanding yet deeply rewarding profession.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Adam Robinson
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Brigham Young University
Masters Degree from Brigham Young University, Doctor of Dental Medicine from Midwestern University, Doctor of Medicine from University of Nebraska Medical Center
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Biology & Related Sciences
Healthcare
Medical
None Applicable
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Career Path of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center
Adam's career path to becoming an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon began with undergraduate studies in physiology and developmental biology, where "a class...opened my eyes to different pathways," including oral maxillofacial surgery. Subsequent research, dental school success, strategic externships at various institutions ("University of Louisville, down at UCSF in Fresno, California"), and a competitive residency match process ultimately led to the current position at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Main Responsibilities of an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center
Adam's main responsibility at the University of Nebraska Medical Center is "treating patients," evaluating each case and developing appropriate treatment plans. Equally important is Adam's role as an attending physician in the residency program, where the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon teaches and supervises residents in patient care and surgical procedures.
A Day In The Life Of An Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon At University Of Nebraska Medical Center
An academic oral surgeon's day varies between clinic and operating room responsibilities; clinic days involve "procedures in the morning and consultations and post-op follow-ups in the afternoon," while operating room days, starting as early as 7:00 AM, can extend until 7:00 PM depending on the complexity of surgeries.
Most Important Skills for an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Adam at the University of Nebraska Medical Center identifies "patience, curiosity, intelligence, uh, self-driven, and hardworking" as crucial skills. This highlights the demanding nature of the profession, requiring not only intellectual capacity but also strong personal attributes.
Favorite Parts of Being an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center
Adam, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, finds the most rewarding aspect of his role at University of Nebraska Medical Center to be "the ability to treat patients and solve their problems," providing "significant relief and happiness" while also mentoring residents. The combination of patient care and teaching contributes to his professional fulfillment.
Challenges as an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Med Center
Adam, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, identifies the multifaceted nature of challenges in the role, citing difficulties in "communicating with patients" and ensuring shared understanding of treatment plans as a key clinical hurdle. Administrative burdens, including "scheduling patients" and securing adequate support staff, add to the complexity of the position.
Favorite Parts Of Working In Medicine As An Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon
Adam, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, finds the most rewarding aspects of his career to be "doing surgery and treating patients," directly impacting patient care and seeing tangible results. He also highlights the significant personal fulfillment derived from mentoring residents and witnessing their professional growth, noting the satisfaction of seeing them "using the tips that [he] gave them."
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Oral And Maxillofacial Surgery Industry, According To An Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon At University Of Nebraska Medical Center
To thrive as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon requires significant "self-motivation" and problem-solving skills, as the career path demands independent learning and initiative from undergraduate studies through residency. Success also hinges on teamwork and collaboration, a crucial aspect often underestimated by those accustomed to working independently.
What an Oral Surgeon at Nebraska Medical Center wishes they had known before entering the medical industry
Adam, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, wishes someone had emphasized the physically demanding nature of the job before starting, noting the "hours on end" of standing that can be "really, really difficult" on the body. While adaptation occurs, this aspect of the career is not often discussed, yet it's a significant challenge, especially during residency.
Entry-Level Positions for Aspiring Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
For undergraduate students interested in oral and maxillofacial surgery, entry-level roles such as "medical or dental assistant," "surgical assistants," or positions within nursing offer valuable experience. These roles allow individuals to gain exposure to the field and potentially advance their career.
Significant Career Lesson from an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center
A significant lesson learned by the oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the importance of "patience and an open mind," realizing that sometimes "it is best to just be patient and let the body work out its own problems." This contrasts with the initial inclination to immediately "fix everything," highlighting the value of considering alternative solutions and allowing for natural healing processes.
College Experiences That Helped an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at University of Nebraska Medical Center Succeed
To prepare for a career in oral and maxillofacial surgery, Adam prioritized "doing the best" in each stage of education, viewing this approach as the key to unlocking opportunities. This strategy, applied consistently from undergraduate studies through dental school, allowed Adam to excel and ultimately pursue their chosen specialty, emphasizing the importance of consistent effort over rigid long-term planning.
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