Canadian student Olivia Marois has overcome financial, mental, cultural and academic challenges to achieve her dream of studying dentistry internationally.
Canadian student Olivia Marois has stopped at nothing to achieve her dream of studying dentistry internationally.
The determined Bachelor of Dental Surgery student is currently in the fourth year of her degree, with three of those years spent at the University of Otago.
Having dreamed of becoming a dentist since she was young, Olivia knew she wanted to pursue overseas dental study to stretch herself both personally and professionally.
This drive led her to work many part-time jobs while at high school and while completing her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University in Canada to self-fund her dream. She graduated with honours in Canada as well as a Bilingual Certification having completed her studies in both French and English before heading to New Zealand.
“International fees can feel very overwhelming but, between the savings I had from the jobs I did as well as bank loans I was able to take out, I have been able to cover both my tuition and living costs myself,” Olivia says.
“Though my parents and partner Matt are wonderful and would support me if I ever needed it, I am quite proud of having managed to afford studies and living through my own means.
“It isn’t always easy, and many international students do come from high-income families, but I want people to know doing it yourself is achievable.”
Finances weren’t the only challenge Olivia had to navigate, having experienced anxiety symptoms during her undergraduate degree, which eventually led to a formal ADHD diagnosis.
At the time of her diagnosis, Olivia’s life was filled with demands and pressure that didn’t feel typical, so she sought therapy for support. The therapy experience empowered Olivia as it provided her with the resources needed to educate herself and better manage her symptoms, with exercise becoming a large part of that healing process.
“Even with the busy schedule of dental school, I prioritise the gym knowing it greatly benefits my stress levels and helps me think more clearly.”
"Coming from someone who had never moved out of my hometown, let alone across the world, I would definitely encourage other Canadian students to consider Otago."
Travelling to New Zealand to study also meant Olivia had to overcome somewhat of a language barrier.
Though the town she grew up in - Sudbury in Northern Ontario - is relatively bilingual, Olivia herself completed most of her schooling in French, making the transition to speaking English fulltime and having English-only classes in Dunedin quite the adjustment.
“While I was concerned at first, the transition to English-speaking classes at Otago ended up being smoother than expected, as I would speak mostly English everyday while here in New Zealand.”
Finally, Olivia also had to conquer her own sense of imposter syndrome during both her journey to the University of Otago and while in the Faculty of Dentistry.
A demanding work schedule meant her grades weren’t always perfect but she realises there is more to achieving her dream than grades.
“I work hard, sometimes even harder than others might, but what actually matters is consistency, dedication, and wanting to improve a little bit every day.
“Dentistry is competitive and the pressure around admissions and while in the programme can be intense, but less-than-perfect grades does not define a person’s ability to be a good dentist. If you show up, put in the effort, be kind, and genuinely care about helping people, you can be so successful in this field. Personally, it has been a long journey with a few detours, but I am really glad I put all my efforts to get where I am today.”
Olivia also credits much of her success to her friends and family.
“My supportive partner Matt moved to New Zealand with me, and my parents, brother, and long-term pets have been cheering me on every step of the way. Being surrounded by so much love has shaped who I am today.”
This year Olivia will be completing her final year of study at Otago’s Dental facility in Auckland, allowing her the opportunity to explore New Zealand even more.
She says she’s truly enjoyed her time at Otago, with highlights being using the Faculty’s new equipment and beautiful clinics, the supportive staff and professors, walkable city and especially the early exposure to hands-on patient care.
“Coming from someone who had never moved out of my hometown, let alone across the world, I would definitely encourage other Canadian students to consider Otago.
“New Zealanders are genuinely some of the friendliest people I have ever met, and they’re made me feel right at home from the moment I arrived.”
-Kōrero by Kelsey Swart, Division of Health Sciences Communications Adviser
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