Name: Dr. Devika Sanakkayala
Birth Place: Hyderabad, Telangana
Educational Qualification: Bachelor of Dental Surgery from Malla Reddy Institute of Dental Sciences, Hyderabad, India (Admission Batch: 2015)
Languages you speak or write: English, Hindi and Telegu
What are you doing presently?
I am working as a full-time intern at a Hospital and a Part-time General Dentist at a Clinic. I will be soon moving to the UK to pursue my Master’s at University College London.
What’s the best part of your profession? What made you choose this profession?
Being a dentist is the ability to positively impact people's lives every day. As a dentist, I have the opportunity to alleviate patients' pain, restore their oral health, and enhance their smiles. It's in seeing the transformation in a patient's confidence and overall well-being is incredibly rewarding in receiving dental care. Building strong relationships with patients and being able to make a lasting difference in their lives is truly fulfilling.
Ever since I was a child, I had the passion to help others and the utmost curiosity about the human body, which pushed me to pursue a career in dentistry.
Do you like reading? What was the last thing you read?
Oh yes, reading is my form of meditation—a calming sanctuary that grants me solace and cherished ‘me time’. I am currently reading ‘Great Expectations’ by Charles Dickens.
What is your favourite dish?
I relish the flavours of South Indian meals and delight in the indulgence of vegan brownies and vegan doughnuts.
How would your friend describe you?
If a friend were to describe me, they might say that I am a dependable and supportive companion who always lends a listening ear. Additionally, they might highlight my ability to bring a smile to their faces, my loyalty, my trustworthiness, and my willingness to go the extra mile to help those I care about.
Who would you like to travel with?
Embarking on adventures alongside my beloved fur babies, Jerry and Jango, is an experience I eagerly anticipate.
Your favorite subject(s)?
Back in school, it was Biology and English. In Dentistry I have been fascinated by General Medicine and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.
What is your least favourite subject?
As much as I value Mathematics, I have always found it the least interesting.
What’s something you wish to change about the world?
My sincerest wish is for a world that radiates compassion and thoughtfulness in every corner.
If your journey were a movie, what would it be called?
Living Like a Phoenix
What are you passionate about?
Beyond being a doctor, I am a passionate animal rights activist committed to promoting the well-being and rights of animals. With fervour and dedication, I tirelessly advocate for the rights of animals, working towards a world where compassion and respect extend to all living beings.
Best/memorable moment?
Getting accepted to the prestigious University College London, which proudly holds the 8th rank worldwide, was an absolute highlight in my life—a moment that filled me with immense pride and excitement for the promising academic journey ahead.
What do you love to do in your leisure time?
I love thrilling sci-fi movies and find Marvel movies particularly enthralling. I also find solace in poetry writing, playing the piano and listening to Hindi classics.
If given a choice, what alternate career would you have opted for?
If presented with an alternative career path, I would have eagerly chosen to become a Dermatologist or a Gynaecologist.
Where would you like to work in the future?
My dream is to be a part of the WHO, where I can contribute to global health initiatives and make a positive impact on public health worldwide.
A quote you relate to - "The scary news is You’re on your own now, but the cool news is You’re on your own now” – Taylor Swift
(DentiSight/RRG/GS)