From Ontario to Otago: How Olivia Self-funded Her Global Dentistry Dream

Olivia doesn’t let obstacles stand in the way of her goals. The Canadian-born Bachelor of Dental Surgery student (also a former OzTREKKer!) is now in her fourth year of study, having traveled across the world to the University of Otago in New Zealand.

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.

By balancing multiple part-time jobs during her undergraduate years at Laurentian University and securing student loans, she took full ownership of her tuition and living expenses. “I am quite proud of having managed to afford studies and living through my own means,” she says. “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.”

Her journey hasn’t just been a financial challenge. Olivia has also navigated a late ADHD diagnosis, a language transition from French to English, and the “imposter syndrome” that often comes with competitive professional programs. She credits her success to a disciplined routine—prioritizing the gym to manage stress—and a mindset that values consistency over “perfect” 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 program 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.”

Olivia 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.

Now in her final year, Olivia is quick to encourage others to consider studying abroad.

“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 the friendliest people I’ve ever met; they made me feel at home from the moment I arrived.”

This article was originally posted by The University of Otago (Kōrero by Kelsey Swart, Division of Health Sciences Communications Adviser).

Would you like to read more about studying dentistry at the University of Otago? Check out Valentine’s and Feng’s student experience!

 

About the Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Otago

As one of the world’s top dental schools, the primary aim of the faculty is to remain a nationally and internationally recognized leader of academic excellence in the areas of research, education and training, and clinical practice by achieving and retaining a reputation for the highest quality research, teaching, and clinical expertise in each discipline; and by fostering an environment that stimulates intellectual and professional development.

Program: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (graduate entry)
Location: Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand
Intake: February
Duration: 4 years*

*This 4-year graduate-entry accelerated pathway is intended for those with a university degree. While Otago offers a 5-year undergraduate-entry option, direct entry into the second year of the program (Year 2) is very competitive and requires a separate application; therefore, it’s possible that a student may not be issued an offer to continue in the dentistry program.

Start your application to Otago Dental School!

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Please let us know if you have any questions about studying dentistry at the University of Otago! Contact OzTREKK’s Australian Dental Schools Admissions Team at dentistry@oztrekk.com.