The Making of a Doctor: Dalhousie Medical Class of 1973, written by Dr. Alfred Bent (MD’ 73), offers a compelling exploration of the experiences, milestones, and legacy of the Dalhousie medical class whose members began their studies began in 1968. This unique class marked the centennial anniversary of Dalhousie Medical School's founding and was the first to embark on its training within the newly built Tupper Medical Building. Dr. Bent recalls his journey with his classmates as memorable, as they piloted a transformative curriculum that defined their initial three years of medical study.

The book revisits the rich history leading to the founding of Dalhousie Medical School in 1868, highlighting the institution’s evolution. Dr. Bent provides a detailed account of the curriculum changes introduced with his class, underscoring the significance of this innovation in medical education at the time. He also offers an insider’s perspective on the challenges and rewards of the application process, the realities of daily life as a medical student, and insights into the practice of medicine in the early 1970s.

Beyond the core years of study, The Making of a Doctor captures the ongoing connections among classmates through reunion narratives and reflections. The final chapters offer short biographical sketches of each member of the Class of 1973, adding a personal touch that celebrates their shared journey and individual accomplishments.

How to Purchase

All proceeds from The Making of a Doctor support the MD Class of 1973 Memorial Bursary at Dalhousie University. Priced at $30, the book is available through three donation-based methods:

1. Online Donation: Visit giving.dal.ca/MD1973 to donate any amount, select the Faculty of Medicine, and designate the MD Class of ’73 Memorial Bursary. Please note the dedication “in honour of The Making of a Doctor: Dalhousie Medical Class of 1973.”
2. By Mail: Send a cheque to either the Dalhousie Alumni Office or Dr. Alfred Bent, made payable to Dalhousie University, with a note dedicating it to the MD Class of 1973 Memorial Bursary in honour of the book.
3. E-transfer: You may send funds directly to Dr. Bent at alfred.bent@gmail.com, but if you donate using this method you will not receive a tax receipt, because Dr. Bent will donate the funds under his name.

Your donation not only secures a memorable account of Dalhousie’s medical history, but it also supports future medical students, keeping the legacy of the Class of 1973 alive.

Once you’ve purchased Dr. Bent’s book, please reach out to Emily Brown, Alumni and Community Engagement Manager at the Faculty of Medicine, with your name and address to receive your copy by mail.