Let's Meet Pam Chowdhury

What are three words to describe you?

Authentic, empathetic, calm

What are your hobbies and passions?

Travel, hot yoga, spin classes, photography

Do you have any pets?

YES! a Toy Maltese named Milo <3

What’s one thing people don’t know about you?

I am a Fantasy Hockey Champion ;)

What is your favourite song at the moment?

A Head Full of Dreams - Coldplay

A genie grants you one wish; what do you wish for?

A kinder, more understanding world

What would you title your biography?

Know Your Worth

What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?

Learn to surf

What is your favourite travel story?

Being terrified riding a Vespa along the narrow roads of the Amalfi Coast in Italy, but at the same time feeling a sense of calm and peace because of the absolutely beautiful scenery.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background. How did you end up at the Mike Petryk School of Dentistry?

I was born in India but came to Canada in 1969. My parents both worked at the University of Calgary - my dad was a mechanical engineering professor for over 40 years, and my mom worked in payroll/administration. I had a younger sister who was a chemical engineer; she passed away about 10 years ago. I graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry at the U of A in 1991. I am married and have two sons.....and of course my baby Milo!

My family has been my biggest supporters over the years, and I value my parents, husband and boys over everything. They have been my support system throughout my career from the time I was in dental school, graduation, setting up my practice and then my decision to join the U of A as a part-time instructor back in 2016. Eventually, I would find that the supportive environment of the dental school and the rewards of supervising and mentoring students helped me decide to sell my practice and join the wonderful CC team full-time. It truly was the best decision. It is an honour to watch our students evolve and grow into future dental professionals.

I have learned that life is short and you must live your life on your terms...always "love the life you live….live the life you love”

Tell us about a moment in your career that you are particularly proud of.

Starting my own practice. Even though I had no business background, I started my practice from the ground up and worked hard to grow and manage it over 23 years before I decided to sell and start teaching at the MPSoD.  I was able to develop long lasting relationships with patients that made going to work feel like being around family and friends. Those relationships are still strong today.

What do you love about your profession the most?

Dentistry allows us to help people. We have an opportunity with every patient that we meet to develop a new relationship and care for their needs. Their appreciation and oftentimes, their friendship are the rewards. It is a humble profession that gives back in more ways than one can imagine.

What subject do you wish were taught in every school?

Empathy

What are the most interesting parts of your job?

It is so rewarding to be in clinics with the students and help guide them through the treatments that are being provided to our patients. Watching the students as they develop relationships with their patients, as well as support each other during their dental journey, and grow into dental professionals has been a privilege. I am so grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their clinical education and earn their respect and appreciation.