Reflections

Hometown:
Portsmouth, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia State University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Portsmouth, VA. I enjoy traveling with friends and family to experience new cities and cultures. I like to plan trips during breaks, even if it is just a two hour road trip close to Virginia. When I travel, I love to try new restaurants and food that is unique to the area.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have a passion for dentistry because this profession is challenging, innovative and allows me to improve the health of the community. Dentistry allows me to be creative and use my skills to create art. Providing oral health care and seeing how much I can change someone's life inspires me as well.

Hometown:
Miami, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Florida–Nutritional Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
From rural Miami, FL. I grew up on a 10 acre tropical fruit grove. I am the youngest child in my family. I love to play volleyball, read, and explore nature during my free time. My cat's name is Betsy, and she looks like a small cow with her black spots.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am not a very patient person, so I love the instant gratification that dentistry gives. Being able to help or solve a patients' problem during an appointment is one part of dentistry that I have grown to love. Also, being able to give patients a new smile has been truly life changing.

Hometown:
Woodland Hills, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Utah Valley University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm married with two children. My wonderful wife is extremely supportive of me and spends much of her time raising our three year old son, and a one year old daughter. I love board sports and have most recently been learning how to kiteboard. I also love music and spend free time composing music.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am scientifically minded, artistic and I love technology. Dentistry really combines all of these passions of mine. Dentists get to make a big difference in the lives of our patients through pain management, improved quality of life or esthetic improvement.