Dr. Ramsarran during a practical session at dental school.
Moving from a career in journalism to pursuing dentistry is an unusual path, but for 28-year-old Sasha Ramsarran of Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, it was a journey shaped by unexpected opportunities and unwavering determination.
Her story began in the sciences, where she completed an Associate Degree in Biology in 2015. Medicine had always been her goal, but a gap year turned into a transformative chapter when she saw an advertisement for a News Reporter position. She applied on a whim and quickly found herself excelling in journalism. “Journalism was never the plan; it’s something that just happened,” Sasha explained. “I decided to take a gap year and figure out my next steps, and the rest is history.”
Though she thrived in journalism, her passion for healthcare never faded. A pivotal moment came while she was covering a regional outreach featuring a mobile dental unit. “I learned that persons could only have simple procedures like checkups and cleanings done, while more complex procedures required appointments, which were filled until the next year,” Sasha recalled. “Dental procedures are among the most expensive services, so many people wanted to take advantage of the free services at the hospital. That was the moment that reinforced my decision to pursue dentistry.”
Balancing her journalism career with academic ambitions was no small feat. Sasha worked full-time while pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology at the University of Guyana’s Berbice Campus, commuting daily for classes. “Juggling work and academia taught me how to manage my time better,” she said. These time management skills became invaluable when she transitioned into dental school at UG’s Turkeyen Campus in 2019.
Photos of Dr. Ramsarran during her time as a journalist.
For Sasha, the skills she gained as a journalist have seamlessly carried over into her medical journey. “Journalism forces you out of your comfort zone, especially as an introvert like myself,” she shared. “You’re expected to interact with persons from all walks of life, and the same is true for dentistry. When interacting with patients, you need to be calm, collected, and professional. You need to ask the right questions, be empathetic, and have the patient’s best interest at heart.”
Her background in storytelling also proved invaluable in patient care. “In journalism, you learn to take difficult ideas and present them in a way anyone can understand, which is crucial in dentistry. Whether it’s explaining procedures, diagnoses, or treatment plans, I always aim to use plain, relatable terms so patients feel comfortable and informed.”
Despite her determination, Sasha’s transition to dentistry wasn’t without challenges. “When I decided to make the switch, I encountered questions from people who wondered why I was leaving something I was good at for something entirely new,” she admitted. “I had moments of doubt too, wondering if I had the right skills or if the investment in education would pay off. But over time, I realized the skills I developed in journalism, like critical thinking and time management, helped me navigate the transition.”
With the completion of her Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Sasha is eager to make her mark in dentistry. Her goal is simple yet profound: “Whether it’s helping someone overcome dental anxiety or restoring their confidence with a healthier smile, I want to create an environment where patients feel heard, respected, and valued.” She also hopes to contribute to broader conversations about healthcare access and preventative care, especially for underserved communities.
Dr. Ramsarran receiving an award.
Looking back, Sasha has no regrets about her time in journalism. “Every experience, whether good or bad, becomes part of the foundation for your next chapter,” she reflected. “Journalism taught me to listen deeply, communicate clearly, and connect with people, all skills I carry into my medical career.”
Sasha Ramsarran’s journey from journalist to dentist is a testament to the power of adaptability and following one’s passions. Her story exemplifies how diverse experiences can come together to create a meaningful career, leaving a legacy of compassion, service, and impact. “My advice to anyone looking to make a major career change is simple: Go for it. Have a plan, surround yourself with support, and don’t be afraid to evolve.”
Photos of Dr. Ramsarran at dental school.
