Every year in June, the ITI opens the application portal for its Scholarship Program. We took this opportunity to ask one of our former Scholars, Yalda Nassehi from the United Kingdom, about her experience, her daily work, and what she enjoyed most about it. Yalda began her Scholarship year in September 2024 at the ITI Scholarship Center in Graz, Austria.
What are the three most memorable things you will take away from your Scholarship year?
When I packed up and moved to Graz for my ITI Scholarship, I knew it would be a year of growth, but I didn’t realise just how much it would stretch me, both professionally and personally. It’s genuinely challenging to narrow it down to just three.
Firstly, the one-on-one mentorship from Prof. Michael Payer was truly invaluable. His clarity of thought, calm approach to complex cases, and dedication to teaching left a lasting impression on me. What I appreciated most was how intentional he was in supporting my development – always approachable, generous with his time, and consistently encouraging. From the outset, he made every effort to understand my goals and worked with me to ensure they were met. I’m also extremely grateful to Prof. Jakse, Prof. Kirnbauer, Dr. Arefnia, Dr. Fakheran, and many others who shared their expertise so generously and made my experience deeply enriching.
Secondly, the intensive sessions on digital implant planning were a significant turning point. They opened my eyes to the potential of digital workflows in dentistry – an area I’m now eager to keep on developing in my own practise.
Thirdly, I had the opportunity to attend several ITI events and study clubs, not only within Austria, but also across Europe and in the US, including an unforgettable time at the Harvard Education Week in Boston. These events not only kept me up to date on the latest in implant dentistry but also gave me the chance to connect with other ITI Scholars. Meeting fellow Scholars in Paris during the Annual Global Conference was a particular highlight, and catching up with some of them again in Boston made me realise how strong and lasting these global friendships can be.
I’ve relocated between cities and countries multiple times throughout my life, and each new place has brought opportunities to learn from those around me. Graz has certainly not disappointed in that regard. It’s a cosy and welcoming town, with a lot more to offer than meets the eye. Once you begin to explore it, you discover beautiful trails, great food, and some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets I’ve ever seen. Living abroad, adapting to a new culture, and forming new connections has also contributed to significant personal growth.$
Could you give us an idea of how your working week was structured?
Each week was diverse and engaging. I typically had two dedicated days for my own surgical procedures, gaining valuable hands-on experience. On two other days, I assisted in outpatient clinics – managing follow-up care, new patient consultations, and emergencies. Observing surgeries led by senior clinicians further deepened my learning. The center also thoughtfully allocated time for admin, digital planning, and research, which helped maintain a good balance throughout the week.
I was fortunate to begin hands-on work fairly early on in the year. Twice a week, I was in the operating room, performing a wide range of procedures with Prof. Payer – from straightforward implant placements to more advanced surgeries such as sinus augmentation, block grafting, and even tooth transplantations. These experiences boosted my confidence immensely and complemented the theoretical foundation I had previously built.
Why did you choose this specific Scholarship Center?
The initial recommendation came from a trusted colleague who had previously completed their Scholarship in Graz and spoke very highly of it. After looking into it myself, I found that it offered exactly the kind of hands-on surgical experience I was looking for. The center’s flexibility in tailoring the program to my learning goals made the decision even easier.
Did you get enough support to do your job well?
Absolutely. The support from the team in Graz was outstanding, both in and out of clinic. It was a nurturing, motivating environment that allowed me to thrive.
Did you feel you were learning a lot?
Without a doubt. Implant dentistry is evolving rapidly, and the Scholarship allowed me to immerse myself in it on a daily basis. Being surrounded by highly experienced clinicians and being trusted with increasing levels of responsibility significantly boosted both my clinical confidence and my surgical skill set. Honestly, I wish I could have stayed longer.
What were your plans after the Scholarship, and how did the experience influence your current position?
One of the greatest takeaways from the year was gaining confidence in digital implant planning, something I had previously found challenging. My surgical capabilities also improved considerably, thanks to both pre-op planning and practical exposure. Since returning, I’ve begun integrating these skills into private practice in London. I also developed a strong relationship with the team in Graz, and we’re continuing to collaborate on projects we began during the Scholarship year, including applications for international grants that will support ongoing research and professional exchange.
Another major influence has been my growing interest in teaching. Having learned so much from mentors who not only shared their knowledge but shaped the way I think and work, I’ve realised how powerful that role can be. I’m eager to get more involved in education and pass on the same support and inspiration I was fortunate to receive.
As an active member of the Young ITI UK committee, I’m excited to give back to the community and keep pushing myself academically and professionally.
Why would you recommend the ITI Scholarship to other young professionals?
The ITI Scholarship is genuinely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It offers unparalleled access to global experts in implant dentistry and gives you the chance to build long-lasting international relationships. The balance of academic learning and practical clinical training is something truly unique. Knowing what I know now, I would choose this experience again in a heartbeat.
Each year we enable young implant dentistry talent to spend a year abroad at a highly regarded university being mentored by an ITI Fellow at one of our 34 ITI Scholarship Centers around the globe. Are you keen on getting insight into every aspect of implant treatment? Would you like to dive into the complex world of case planning, implant surgery and prosthetic restorations in an international context? Our application portal is open from June 1 to June 30 every year. Don’t hesitate any longer and apply now!
More information available on our website.
