EXPLORING ASPIRATIONS AND REALITIES: A COMPREHENSIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL QUESTIONNAIRE-BASED SURVEY ON THE CAREER OUTLOOK AND EXPECTATIONS OF DENTAL STUDENTS

This study aims to assess the career expectations of dental students across various dental colleges in India through a comprehensive questionnaire.A structured questionnaire, encompassing factors related to career perceptions and expectations, was distributed among dental students in different regions of India. The study received responses from 403 participants, and subsequent data analysis was conducted to derive meaningful results.Among the 403 respondents, 170 (42.2%) expressed a preference for establishing themselves as self-employed dentists, while 140 (34.7%) indicated that family influences played a significant role in their career decision-making. The findings suggest a prevalent interest among dental students in establishing independent practices or working in established clinics, driven by aspirations for financial stability and a harmonious work-life balance. Family considerations emerged as a crucial factor influencing both short-term and long-term career plans. Respondents highlighted factors such as reduced bureaucracy, increased part-time job opportunities, and improved work-life balance as motivations for eventually establishing their own dental practices.The study reveals a notable inclination among dental students towards entrepreneurship and a desire to strike a balance between professional and personal life. Family dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping the career decisions of these students. Factors such as reduced bureaucratic hurdles and enhanced work-life balance were identified as significant contributors to the preference for establishing independent dental practices.