The annual 'So you want to be an orthodontist' meeting was held in London at the British Orthodontic Society's (BOS') headquarters in Central London on 24 November 2017.

Libby Richardson, attendee at this year's 'So your want to be an orthodontist' meeting

Organised by the BOS Training Grades Group, the day featured a busy programme with talks from speakers with a variety of backgrounds and experience. Ms Helen Tippet gave a detailed insight into the national recruitment process from the perspective of an orthodontic consultant which was added to by orthodontic registrar Mr Robert Smythe who outlined his experience of the process from a candidate's perspective. This was an informative introduction to both the application form and interview stations and helped answer many of the delegates' questions about what to expect from the day.

Further understanding of orthodontic training was gained from Professor Susan Cunningham who gave an overview of the various training programmes as well as the importance of the research component of orthodontic registrar training. This helped to highlight the prospect of further academic study and the application of research completed during specialist training in future clinical orthodontic practice.

A career in orthodontics after completion of specialist training was described by orthodontic specialist Mr Neil Patel and post-CCST StR5 Dr Eileen Watt. This overview of career prospects in both specialist practice and hospital settings was well received by all delegates. I found this especially useful to understand the wider career options and possibilities for future training.

Due to the competitive nature of applications to specialist training, advice on building a strong CV was given by Mr Sadaf Khan. This session gave excellent advice and practical tips for delegates at all stages of preparation for their application.

Round table discussions were held in the afternoon and these were the perfect opportunity for informal networking and delegates took the chance to ask the speakers questions about the talks earlier in the day. Examples of previous candidates' portfolios and cases presented at the MOrth examinations were available for delegates to look over. Delegates also had the time to seek advice on their own applications from the speakers.

Overall the day was an excellent overview of a career in orthodontics and has undoubtedly inspired many delegates including myself to apply to specialist training this year and beyond. I would suggest this in an invaluable event to attend for anyone interested in specialist orthodontic training and I wish to thank the organisers for coordinating this meeting.