In this captivating DocScopy interview with Dr. Keerthi D, hosted by Dr. Nirainila Joseph from MedBound Times, we explore the harmonious blend of dentistry and music that shapes Dr. Keerthi's life and aspirations. Having recently completed her BDS at the Tamil Nadu Government Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Dr. Keerthi is now rigorously preparing for her postgraduate entrance exams while nurturing her passion for singing.
Dr. Keerthi shares her journey, discussing the significance of music in her life, even during the demanding periods of academic preparation. She talks about her favorite genres, and how she manages to balance her intense study schedule with her love for singing. Dr. Keerthi highlights how her passion for singing not only provides her with a creative outlet but also serves as a vital source of relaxation and motivation during her academic pursuits. Through her Instagram page, she regularly uploads her singing videos, connecting with a growing audience who appreciates her talent and dedication. She also discusses her future goals as both a dentist and a singer, aiming to excel in her professional career while continuing to share her musical talents with the world.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Please introduce yourself to our readers
Dr. Keerthi D: Hey all, this is Dr. Keerthi. I am a dentist. I completed my UG from GDC, Chennai and am preparing for my PG entrance exams.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Can you share your experience of completing your undergraduate dental studies? What were some of the highlights and challenges?
Dr. Keerthi D: As a teenager, I always dreamt of going to college and have fun like they show in movies. So, the story of becoming a doctor started during my 11th class. I opted for the Bio-math group and my parents wanted me to join the NEET coaching. And those two years were the hectic days of my life and I wanted to get out of that phase as soon as possible. Somehow I finished writing my NEET exam but couldn't manage to get an MBBS seat. And that's how I landed in dentistry.
On my very first day of college, I got to know that those two years of my school were not the real hectic days but the coming five years of my college are going to be the real hard days. And the reality hit that colleges are not like the colleges in movies. But apart from heavy books, hectic OP, strict rules, and scoldings from professors, I did have lots of fun and good experience learning and knowing dentistry which was totally new to me.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: This experience is a relatable and realistic portrayal of the journey to becoming a dentist, highlighting the difference between expectations and reality. So, you're currently preparing for your PG entrance exams. What specific area of dentistry are you most interested in specializing in, and why?
Dr. Keerthi D: During the 5 years of my UG, the department I liked the most was problems, sorry Prosthodontics. Guess what, it's the hectic department you can ever be in. Surviving the postings there always spoiled my mental peace but still I always gave my best in treating the patients. The department just made me stronger and two of my guides in the department, Dr. Preethi mam and Dr. Lingeshwaran sir made me like the work I do there.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Your experience in Prosthodontics is a trip down memory lane for me and takes me right back to my own UG days. Surviving those hectic postings was a rite of passage, but the experience and knowledge we gained were invaluable. Now, how are you preparing for your PG entrance exams, and what strategies have you found most effective?
Dr. Keerthi D: I just began my preparation 3 months ago. I have joined the CEDEES coaching institute. I am just following my mentor Dr. Raison sir. He always says "Be with your sir" and I'm just following that.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: How do you stay motivated and manage stress during your exam preparations and dental practice?
Dr. Keerthi D: Songs. That's the only thing that keeps me going in any situation. I sing, listen to songs, pray, speak to my dad and mom, and eat good food (sometimes junk too) when I'm stressed. And the most important thing I do is speak to myself. No one can ever motivate and believe in you as you can. I do that whenever I am low. I always believe that I can do and I always stay positive.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Can you tell us more about your passion for singing? Have you received any formal vocal training, or are you self-taught?
Dr. Keerthi D: My singing talent is basically from my parents, came from genes. My dad used to tell me that during his school days, he used to sing so well. But due to his family situation, he couldn't continue it. On the other side, my mom loves music. When I was an infant, my mom used to listen to good songs on radio. Eventually, it just started influencing me.
Once she noticed me humming with one of the songs and she decided to get me into carnatic classes. My guru Usha mam rejected to take me in because I was so small it seems. Then after a year, she started training me. My mom used to carry me to class, wait there till I finished my class and then carried me back to home. This talent which I have now, it's totally my mom's efforts. I got trained for 7 years and then couldn't continue the classes as my guru shifted to her hometown. After her, I couldn't find someone like her.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: It's so heartwarming to hear that. Your talent shines through your parents' influences, making your musical journey a testament to their love and support. Let's talk more about her singing passion. What genres of singing do you enjoy the most?
Dr. Keerthi D: I am so into melodies. I love listening and singing melodies.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: What inspired you to upload your singing videos in your Instagram page? How do you choose the songs you sing and share on your page?
Dr. Keerthi D: I always wanted to pursue singing. Seeing me singing, lots of my friends suggested to open an Instagram page and post my videos. So I gave it a try. Of course I could not be consistent due to my studies but whenever I have leisure time or don't feel like studying I record songs which I randomly choose and post. I sing songs that I love and listen to most frequently.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: How has the response been to your singing videos on Instagram? How do you approach maintaining a professional online presence while showcasing your singing passion?
Dr. Keerthi D: The response is quite good. I was so surprised to see such a response from my audience. Sometimes it gives me confidence and encourages me to try different genres that I have never tried. I always make sure I am comfortable with my posture and attire. And I try not to mind about negative comments.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: With the popularity of platforms like YouTube and Instagram, do you see yourself integrating your passion for singing with your dental career in the future like creating educational content related to oral health?
Dr. Keerthi D: Yes, definitely in the future I would like to try doing something innovative with my singing that would also be related to my career.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: It's common for students to deactivate social media and go offline during exam preparations, but you've remained active on Instagram, sharing your singing videos. How do you manage to balance your exam preparation with maintaining an active social media presence?
Dr. Keerthi D: Managing social media and studies is really a difficult task. It will take around 3 hours a day for me to record, listen and upload my video. I usually record songs once or twice a week. During my exam weeks, I don't record any videos. Also, I try to record two songs a day if I’m recording, and I usually do most of my recording at night after spending the whole day studying in the library.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: What motivates you to continue uploading your singing videos during such a crucial period of your academic career? Has staying active on Instagram and sharing your singing videos helped you in any way during your exam preparations?
Dr. Keerthi D: It's just the love towards my passion and the peace it gives me. In a 24/7 study routine singing and uploading videos refreshes me and keeps me happy, positive, energized and motivated.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Have you faced any challenges or distractions by staying active on social media during your exam preparation, and how do you deal with them?
Dr. Keerthi D: Yes, I was once so distracted by social media. Eventually, I learned to manage time for my singing stuff and studies. I'm still in the process of lessening the time for my Instagram activities.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: What feedback or support have you received from your followers on Instagram regarding your dual focus on dentistry and singing?
Dr. Keerthi D: Most of my followers recognise me as a person who sings and some of them even leave a sweet text about missing my videos if I have not uploaded for a long time.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Do you think your singing experience helps you feel more comfortable communicating with patients?
Dr. Keerthi D: Communication with patients has never been a challenge for me as I'm more comfortable with my patients and try my best to explain everything about the treatment in a way that my patients eventually become comfortable with me.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your singing journey that you are particularly proud of?
Dr. Keerthi D: Whenever my dad is feeling low, he will make me sing the song "Putham Pudhu Kaalai" by Mr. Ilayaraja sir. He says that whenever he hears me sing that song, he feels at peace and is calmed down. I think that is my best memory of all. I have seen my parents be the happiest when I sing on stage and when they tell their friends, 'My daughter is a singer and a doctor.' I think that’s my biggest achievement so far. I look forward to making them even prouder.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: This reflects the deep emotional bond between you and your parents, with your singing bringing them immense pride and peace. Speaking of achievements, if you could collaborate with any artist in singing, who would it be and why?
Dr. Keerthi D: I always wanted to meet my favourite artist Mr. Ilayaraja sir and sing his song in front of him. It's like a dream from childhood. Coz I grew up listening to his songs.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: Do you have any aspirations to pursue singing more professionally in the future, or do you see it remaining a hobby? Where do you see yourself in the next five years in your dental career?
I always wanted to pursue singing as a profession and what I am doing now is just a base for the dream I have about my singing. May be a good and famous Prosthodist in my place.
Dr. Nirainila Joseph: What advice do you have for other students who are trying to balance a demanding academic career with their passion?
Never give up what makes you happy. Give it a little time. It will make ur dreams true one day.
MedBound Times expresses sincere gratitude to Dr. Keerthi D for sharing her valuable insights on our platform.