Millie Bevan talks about her life away from dentistry in this week’s Out of Office. We find out about growing up in Texas, her love of travelling and her perfect start to weekends.
Please introduce yourself
I am Camilla (Millie to my pals) and I’m a dental therapist. I was born and raised in a small town in Norfolk, spent my undergraduate years (and a few more after that) in Manchester, before finally making the move to London in 2018.
I’ve absolutely made myself at home since landing in London. Currently I split my working week across Highgate, Westminster, Russell Square and Canary Wharf.
I feel lucky to say I love working in dentistry. In particular the restorative aspect of dentistry and transforming people’s smiles.
What do you get up to in your spare time away from dentistry?
Dinner parties with friends are a staple; our flat has become the meeting hub for eats or a few homemade cocktails, which is always a great way to start the weekend.
It’s no big secret that I like music as well. So I try to get a gig in the calendar as often as I can.
On a Sunday if it isn’t raining, you can usually find me on Hampstead Heath stretching my legs and doing a bit of celeb spotting. I’m still yet to see Ricky Gervais, though.
Are you a foodie? Why and what particular food do you go for?
Oh yes! Dining out is one of my favourite things about London. The list of restaurants and recommendations is seemingly endless!
Japanese cuisine has to be top of the pops for me. I went to Japan last November and it really was a foodie’s dream; lots of sushi, gyoza and some wagyu beef. I also have a real soft spot for Mexican food having spent three of my younger years living in Texas!
I do like to test my own skills in the kitchen and have really enjoyed Gousto. You never struggle for inspiration and majorly cut down on trips to the supermarket – which was an absolute game changer during lockdown!
Are you into any sport? If so what sport?
Historically, I wouldn’t say I’ve been massive on sport or much of a self-motivator when it comes to exercise.
That said, I got introduced to a personal trainer (Ben) a year ago, who has since given me the requisite kick up the backside. He’s introduced me to burpees.
I also took up running during lockdown and completed my first 10k. I must admit, I hated it at first, but definitely feel a lot happier having done some exercise!
What type of television/movies do you like – any guilty pleasures?
Some of my favourite series over the past few months have been Unorthodox, Money Heist, The Sinner and The Innocence Files.
My favourite film of all time would have to be Stand by Me with River Phoenix. It’s an oldie but easily one of the greats.
In terms of guilty pleasures, there are way too many, but up there would be any of The Real Housewives series and more recently Selling Sunset.
I am also a big fan of podcasts. Anything to do with true crime/serial killers I tend to enjoy. I’m also really into How I made this at the moment.
Do you like to travel and do your hobbies take you anywhere in particular?
I try to do one far flung holiday every year. Greatest hits include Madagascar and Japan.
I mentioned I lived in Texas when I was younger and went to school out there. So I still make time to go back and visit friends. It does feel like a second home.
When things normalise my priority is going to be Tel Aviv! I’m an okay skier when I really concentrate as well, so I try to squeeze some time in on the slopes once a year too!
Why is it important to have hobbies away from your profession?
Having a good hobby or a nice set of friends to do things with on the weekend is the best stress reliever. It’s also great to have something to chat about with patients besides their treatment.
Work is important and I feel lucky to enjoy what I do. But striking the balance is crucial.
I used to really struggle to enjoy my weekdays and even my weekends, as I would be so worried about work on the Monday. I think this is something that definitely eases with time and confidence in your job and knowing when to switch off from work.
