Madeira Student Gains Hands-on Internship Experience with Dentist in Brazil

As Lais Souza ‘25 approached her senior year at Madeira, she set out to gain real-world experience in her dream career—dentistry. Her journey took her all the way to Brazil, where she completed a hands-on internship at a dental clinic. Immersed in the profession she had admired since childhood, Lais not only deepened her passion for dentistry but also gained invaluable professional skills and a newfound sense of independence. 

A Childhood Dream Becomes Reality 

From a young age, Lais knew she wanted to become a dentist. Her inspiration came from her own dentist in Brazil, someone she admired for years. Unlike most children who dread dental appointments, she was fascinated by the procedures, equipment, and patient interactions. "I really enjoyed watching my dentist clean teeth and put braces on patients. I would sometimes stay longer just to watch," she recalled. 

So, when it came time to choose her senior year Co-Curriculum internship—an opportunity for Madeira students to gain real-world experience in their chosen fields—she immediately thought of returning to the same clinic in Brazil where her passion for dentistry began. 

International Internship Provides More Hands-on Opportunities 

With the help of her mother, who maintained close connections in Brazil, she reached out to the dental clinic. They were more than happy to welcome her as an intern, providing a rare opportunity for a high school student to gain hands-on experience. Unlike in the United States, where strict regulations limit minors from directly assisting in medical procedures, Brazil allowed her to be more involved in the daily operations of the clinic. 

"This was a major difference," Lais explained. "In the U.S., I would have only been able to observe. But in Brazil, I got to assist the dentist, sterilize tools, and even prepare materials for procedures. It was much more hands-on, and that’s exactly what I wanted." 

A Day in the Life at the Clinic 

Once the workday started, she played an active role in assisting the dentist. "I would bring patients into the room, set up the protective cloth, give them Listerine, and make sure everything was in place before the dentist arrived," she explained. 

One of the most rewarding parts of her internship was learning the technical aspects of dentistry. She gained experience in: 

• Preparing and handling dental molds 
• Assisting with implants and braces 
• Setting up the blue light for bonding braces 
• Understanding the sterilization process and patient care procedures 

Her involvement in various aspects of dentistry broadened her perspective. Initially, she was primarily interested in orthodontics, specifically braces, but her experience exposed her to a variety of treatments, from cleanings and extractions to implants. "I realized I don’t just want to work with braces—I want to do everything," she confirmed. 

The Human Side of Dentistry 

Beyond the technical skills, one of the most memorable parts of the internship was connecting with patients. Many were curious about her story—why a student from the United States was interning in Brazil. These conversations not only helped her build confidence but also reinforced the importance of patient relationships in dentistry. 

"Everyone wanted to talk to me, which was really fun. But I also learned how much dentists do beyond just making teeth look nice. There’s a lot more to oral health than aesthetics—your dental health affects your overall well-being." 

A Life-Changing Experience 

Spending a month interning in Brazil proved to be a transformative experience. It reaffirmed her career choice, challenged her to adapt to a professional setting, and even helped her grow personally. 

"When I came back, I felt like a whole new person," she said. "It gave me a fresh perspective, a sense of independence, and a deeper appreciation for my career path." 

Her experience was also closely supported by Madeira, where she worked with faculty mentor Ms. Peaks, providing weekly check-ins and preparing a final presentation titled Dentistry is Not Just About Aesthetics. In it, she challenged common misconceptions about the field and emphasized the vital role dental health plays in overall well-being. 

Encouraging Others to Explore Global Opportunities 

Reflecting on her experience, she strongly encourages other Madeira students to consider international internships. "If you have the opportunity, do it," she urged. "You not only gain career experience but also grow as a person. Living and working in a different country helps you become more independent and open-minded." 

With her senior year coming to an end, she now looks ahead to college and a future in dentistry, equipped with real-world experience and an even greater passion for her chosen field. 

“I realized that I was having so much fun with it. I was learning, watching, and working, and I knew—I am completely happy doing this for the rest of my life.”