UTech valedictorian finds fulfilling path in dentistry

For Abigayle Edgar, graduating with first class honours in the Doctor of Medical Dentistry programme at the University of Technology (UTech), Jamaica – and being named one of three valedictorians for the Class of 2025 – feels like “the final mould in the clay” of her ambition to become a well-rounded dental practitioner. She will mark the milestone on Saturday, January 31, when she graduates from the Joint Colleges of Medicine, Oral Health and Veterinary Sciences.

Edgar had long imagined a career in healthcare, first aspiring to paediatrics. That changed in sixth form, when she became drawn to dentistry. “I was drawn to dentistry because of its profoundly patient-centred nature, which would allow me to build meaningful connections and see the immediate impact of my work,” she said, noting that the profession also offers a healthier work–life balance.

Her path was hardly smooth. Beginning university in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic brought severe challenges. She struggled to focus during online classes, and the daily commute from Old Harbour, St Catherine, to Kingston for in-person sessions proved both physically and mentally draining. “The long commute often meant that I had less time during the weekdays to dedicate to studying…When I received unfavourable grades, I realised that I needed to pivot, become accountable for my own learning and develop a level of organisation and self-discipline that would guarantee laser focus towards my studies,” she said.

A disciplined weekend study routine soon paid off. The academic turnaround brought excellent grades and two scholarships – both a financial relief and a personal vindication after earlier disappointments. “Although my mother didn’t express it, I knew she could benefit from assistance. Being one of the recipients of the UTech 60th Anniversary Scholarship facilitated a smoother transition. As I approached the finish line, I received the Dr Barry Wint Memorial Scholarship and was in a better position to complete my studies,” she said.

MEANINGFUL INTERACTIONS

Beyond academic training, Edgar treasures the dental outreach initiatives organised by the College of Oral Health Sciences, which allowed her to treat individuals with limited access to care. These encounters strengthened her sense of purpose. “Knowing that I was restoring not just oral health, but a person’s comfort and confidence is one of the greatest rewards a student clinician can receive,” she said.

One moment stands out: delivering her final complete denture during one of her toughest semesters. The patient’s immediate joy eclipsed months of difficulty and deepened her conviction in the value of restoring not just oral function, but dignity.

Central to her success is a strong support system, led by her mother, whom she calls her greatest cheerleader. “Even in moments of self-doubt, my mother was always there to remind me that I am destined for greatness.” She also credits lecturers at the College of Oral Health Sciences for their high expectations and steadfast guidance. “Lecturers such as Dr Mark Edwards, Dr Denise Brady, Dr Nicola Charlton James, Dr Jerren Chambers, and Dr Meleka Daley emphasized the importance of producing quality work. My success is truly a reflection of the confidence and efforts poured into me by my lecturers, dean, and programme director,” she said.

Having passed her licensing exam in November 2025, Edgar hopes to serve as a dental surgeon in the public health sector – a path she believes will allow her to give back to her childhood community. Her advice to aspiring dental students is simple: be clear about your goals, stay focused and aim to make a positive impact. “We don’t just graduate with degrees … we graduate with confidence, competence, and the ability to make an immediate difference,” she said.