Hi there! My name is Janelle Brown-Walkus and I am from the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Heiltsuk, and Gwa'sala First Nations in BC, Canada.  It is an absolute dream to have been accepted into the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program at the University of Melbourne. For the last 10 years, I've dreamed of working as a dentist for Indigenous communities such as my own - and it is a dream that continues to grow. 

I am currently wrapping up my M.Sc. Dentistry (research) at the University of Toronto - with a focus in dental public health. My current research is looking into the quality of preventive oral health services for Indigenous communities - specifically working with the Norway House Cree Nation in northern Manitoba. 

I believe that the University of Melbourne is a great fit for me and such a blessing as it provides a high standard of training, but also includes a strong component of Indigenous outreach in its curriculum. Additionally, as an accredited program by the Canadian Dental Association I will be able to take the boards exams and work in Canada after completion.  

In order to accept my offer, however,  I am required to place a deposit of $12,800 by September 24th, 2020: 
$2,800 is required to go towards the Overseas Student Health Cover
$10,000 is a deposit that will go towards my tuition, and hold my spot in the program.

With your generosity, I will be able to confirm my spot in the dental program at the University of Melbourne and start a new journey come January 2021! 

Walas Giasixa. Huy chexw.
(Many thanks)

Janelle Brown-Walkus