University of Liverpool alumna Cat Burford, now fondly known as the ‘Molar Explorer’, recently became one of only 13 women in history to ski solo and unsupported to the South Pole. The journey began at the edge of the Antarctic continent, eventually traveling 704 miles to complete the expedition. In total the journey took 53 days, braving temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees and battling 60 mph winds all while pulling the food and equipment she needed to survive on a sledge.
Cat made the incredible journey in support of Bridge2Aid, a charity that supports the provision of emergency dental care and training in east Africa and Community Action Nepal, which aims to promote health education and development in Nepal.
But before Cat was exploring the South Pole she was a student at the University of Liverpool School of Dentistry. We asked Cat to reflect on her time at the School of Dentistry and how it has shaped both her her professional career as an NHS dentist in Cornwall but also her experience on the polar ice too!
What was it like studying Dentistry at the University of Liverpool?
When I started at the University of Liverpool’s School of Dentistry in 2000, the clinics had recently been refurbished, so it felt like we were working with the latest technology. It’s incredible to see how much has changed and how far dentistry has advanced since then.
One of my more memorable experiences was collecting teeth from my dentist back home, which were then emptied into a communal ‘grot pot.’ We would rummage through it, searching for enough teeth to set up the dental arches so we could practice our fillings. The smell of that bucket is something I’ll never forget!
Dentistry is a demanding course, which sometimes made it difficult to relate to other first-year students who had more free time. I was always the last one off the bus for dinner and the first up in the morning. Because of that, my year group became such an important part of my university experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for the friendships I made. A lot of effort went into making sure dental students not only worked hard but also had the chance to enjoy themselves. By the end of the five years, we had truly bonded, and those connections have lasted well beyond graduation.
What clubs and societies were you a part of as a student?
I was a member of the Outdoor Club, and I absolutely loved it. We’d catch a coach from outside the student union on a Saturday morning, and by 10 am, we’d be at the foot of a mountain, ready to start climbing. By 7 pm, we’d be back in Liverpool, just in time for a night out. Looking back, I can’t believe the stamina I had back then!
I also got involved in the annual sports days, which were always a great mix of competition and socialising. There was a fun rivalry between the UK dental schools, as well as matches against the medics and vets. It was never just about the sport—we’d pull together a football team (of sorts) and enjoy weekends away, exploring other university cities and making the most of the events hosted by different dental schools.
How have your experiences shaped your career and polar ambitions?
Qualifying as a dentist was a long-term goal, just like training for the South Pole. Both took a lot of dedication, perseverance, and the ability to stay focused, even when things got tough. I had to keep reminding myself why I wanted it was so important to me and push through any moments of doubt.
When I passed my final exams, I felt genuinely proud of what I’d achieved. It wasn’t just about getting the qualification, it gave me the confidence to believe that if I set my mind to something, I could make it happen. That same mindset has carried over into my polar adventures. Whether it’s dentistry or extreme expeditions, success comes down to resilience, preparation, and just keeping going, no matter how challenging things get.
Like at university, I’ve always aimed for a good work-life balance. Dentistry can be intense, and having goals outside of work, whether that’s training for an expedition or taking on a new challenge, keeps me motivated and fulfilled. Finding that balance has been key.
As someone who has achieved a lot, is there any advice for students who are interested in following in your footsteps?
Don’t wait until you feel completely ready before you share your goals—because that moment may never come. Big goals or ambitions often feel daunting, but by voicing them and putting them out into the world, you create momentum. The more you express what you want to achieve, the more opportunities will arise, and before you know it, your journey will begin to unfold.
I would also encourage students to build as many connections as possible. Seeking out mentors and talking to those who have already walked the path you’re interested in is invaluable.