bump. Are there any more discussion about being a general or specialty?
I've been debating that same question these days, since it is the summer after my first year, and I actually have the time to ponder about these kind of things.
The whole culture at UCLA is about specializing - as if one don't specialize then one is a loser. I see that culture, that bias, and I'm reminding myself to re-examine the intentions behind specializing or not.
Schooling: I don't mind going through more school, that doesn't bother me.
Earning: I think as a dentist (assuming earning on average 150K), we are already at the 95 percentile ranking. What more money would I need? But if I can double my salary, then that means I can work less.
Interest: Don't know enought about each specialty to know where my interests are.
Lifestyle: I don't mind being busy, but I do mind the physical toll that generatl dentistry takes. After a whole day in the lab, I feel so physically dull. My posture is off, and that whole tired, icky feeling. I like a lifestyle that doesn't have to go through that physical toil.
Success: I don't think I would do a very good job brown-nosing GP's. Ass kissing is way too much for me, and I don't want to do it. GP will take some business savvy, so hopefully that'lll come with time.
I do know that whatever it is that I do, GP or specialty, I want to do a good job at it. As a student, dedicated to learning, there is nothing worse than not knowing my material. I want to be competent in whatever it is I do. Period. GP or SP (specialist) for that matter.
Your response is appreciated.