From dream to destiny: Dr Fiza Tunio’s inspiring INBDE journey

I still remember the day I got admission into Fatima Jinnah Dental College (FJDC) — the excitement, the pride, and that unexplainable spark of a dream. On my very first day, I bought the NBDE Part 1 book, without even knowing much about the exam or what it really meant. All I knew was that one day, somehow, I wanted to make it to the United States. I didn’t have a plan, a mentor, or any guidance — just a dream and a belief that I could get there. And eventually, I did.

Years later, when the time came to apply for my U.S. visa, that same dream was tested. Almost everyone around me said it wasn’t possible. “You can’t get the visa,” they said. “You can’t travel to the U.S. alone at such a young age.” But I’ve always believed that the difference between “I can’t” and “I can” is just one decision — to try. So, I applied with nothing but determination and faith in myself. And I got the visa.

Once in the U.S., I began preparing for the INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) — a milestone that felt both thrilling and terrifying. With only two months to prepare, I devoted every waking hour to studying. My resources were Mental Dental, INBDE Bootcamp, and Booster, and I made sure to make the most of every single day. The moment I saw my passing score, I couldn’t hold back tears. That little dream I had on my first day of dental school had finally come true.

After passing the INBDE, I was fortunate to complete externships at the University of Maryland and various private practices across the U.S. Each experience opened my eyes to how patient care, innovation, and compassion come together in dentistry. I also attended the Florida Dental Association’s four-day conference in Orlando, where I learned about the latest advancements shaping the profession — from digital dentistry to AI-based treatment planning. Every moment reaffirmed that I was exactly where I was meant to be.

When I returned to Pakistan after my U.S. trip, I felt grateful — but I also remembered how lonely the process had felt. There was no roadmap, no one to guide me when I needed help. So, I decided to become that support for others. What started with helping a few students gradually grew into a community. To date, I’ve guided over 120 students in securing U.S. externships and visas, helping them navigate everything from applications to interviews. Watching them achieve their dreams feels even more fulfilling than achieving my own.

Today, as I continue my house job at Fatima Jinnah Dental College, I often think back to that moment when I first picked up the NBDE book — clueless, curious, and hopeful. I didn’t know where that dream would take me, but I knew I wanted to try.

My journey has taught me that success is not about how many times you fall, but how many times you decide to rise. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that dreams don’t come true by chance — they come true through courage, consistency, and faith in yourself.

About the author

Dr. Fiza Tunio is currently completing her house job at Fatima Jinnah Dental College (FJDC). She is an aspiring international dentist who has successfully passed the INBDE and completed externships in the United States, including at the University of Maryland. Passionate about mentorship and academic growth, Dr. Tunio has guided more than 120 students in securing U.S. externships and visa placements. Her journey reflects resilience, courage, and an unwavering belief that with dedication and determination, dreams truly do come true.