On August 2, 2024, Mahidol University Faculty of Dentistry (MUDT) held an orientation for incoming first-year dental students for the academic year 2024. The event was led by Associate Professor Bundhit Jirajariyavej, Deputy Dean of MUDT, and Associate Professor Dr. Somsak Mitrirattanakul, Deputy Dean for the International Undergraduate Program and Network Collaboration, who delivered the opening remarks.

The orientation provided an informative start to the student’s journey. It featured an introduction of MUDT’s alumni from Clinical Professor Emeritus Dr. Nitiphan Jeeraphaet, President of the Mahidol University Dentistry Alumni Association, along with insights concerning the roles of parents and advisors, shared by Associate Professor Dr. Pornpoj Fuangtharnthip, Chair of the Student Advisory Board.

Following the opening session, introductions were made to both the Thai and International Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Programs.

For the Thai DDS program:

• Lecturer Penporn Luangchana, Assistant Dean for Educational Affairs and Educational Technology, elaborated on educational affairs, scholarships, awards, and welfare.
• Associate Professor Dr. Somsak Mitrirattanakul, Chairman of the Mahidol Medicine Scholars Program, and Assistant Professor Dr. Montri Ratanajanchai, Committee Member of the program, introduced and led a discussion session with the students.
• Associate Professor Dr. Naruemon Panpradit, Assistant Dean for Educational Affairs and Educational Technology, guided students through the DDS curriculum and preparedness strategies.
• Associate Professor Dr. Warungkana Chidchuangchai and Associate Professor Dr. Somsak Mitrirattanakul presented on “Educational Management in Professional Elective Courses in Specific Requirement Courses and Free Elective Courses, Year 1–Year 6.”

The orientation for the Thai DDS program took place at the Debaratana Auditorium, on the fourth floor of the 50^th Anniversary of H.R.H. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Building.

The International DDS Program offered an equally enriching experience, with insightful sessions at the 304-305 meeting rooms on the third floor of the same building. Lecturers and staff from the Mahidol International Dental School (MIDS) presented key aspects, including:

• Introduction to Mahidol International Dental Program-Including Overall curriculum, the study plan, general education, and free electives courses, along with an introduction to the Mahidol International Dental School
  by Associate Professor Dr. Ratchapin Srisatjaluk and Mr. Pattapon Tim-am.
• Student benefits and welfare, activity transcript (AT), scholarships, student services, and MIDSA
  by Associate Professor Dr. Ratchapin Srisatjaluk and Ms. Pasiree Boonyawatwichai.

To conclude the orientation, both Thai and International DDS Program students watched a video overview of physical and mental health services, student benefits, scholarships, and the Sirindhorn Dental Museum.