Reflections

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the oldest of three kids and grew up in Fredericksburg. I moved to Richmond for undergrad, and after receiving my degree, I relocated to Minnesota with my partner to teach for a year. When I am not playing with my dog, Bruno, or catching up with loved ones, I am planning my wedding on a dime.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The constantly evolving field combines science and art, providing me the opportunity to be a lifelong learner. There are multiple avenues to promote a healthy smile; I can do nonprofit work, private practice, or teach. I love that the diversity of work can fulfill me while supporting the community.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I taught at a rural high school for 5 years and then got my M.S. in Anatomy before coming to VCU. I spend a lot of my time running (former XC/track coach), sitting in coffee shops, and kayaking with one of my 3 siblings. I’m looking forward to graduation so I can have multiple Australian shepherds.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to combine several of my passions. I love caring for others and providing a service that relieves pain and discomfort while supporting my community. I love science and education, which I can do each day with patients and perhaps in the future as I continue on as an educator.

Hometown:
Moseley, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–B.A. double major in Biology & Archaeology with a minor in Spanish

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in England and moved to Chesterfield, VA when I was six and am a dual-citizen. Children bring me joy, so I babysit whenever I can. In my free time, you might find me cheering on my brother at his tennis matches, preparing dinner for friends, helping a classmate move, or learning salsa.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I see dentistry as an application of science and art, two fields I love, that helps people in a practical way. Working for a year in a rural office, I saw how dentistry can change people’s lives for the better and this gives me the motivation to learn and be able to give back once I am a dentist.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–B.S. Dental Hygiene (2014), B.S. Psychology (2018)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a Richmond, Virginia native, married to my super supportive husband, and we have three daughters, two dogs, and a cat. I enjoy anything involving music -- singing, dancing, theatre. In my spare time I enjoy baking/decorating cakes, having fun with family, and reading whenever I can.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because of the versatility it offers. Dentistry is not only the perfect blend of science, artistry, and public service, but it also offers the possibilities of practice ownership, teaching, research, outreach, and a career filled with countless learning opportunities.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Randolph College–Bachelors - Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising second year dental student. I am married with one four year old daughter. I am a nontraditional dental student. I graduated from undergrad in 2000 with a degree in chemistry

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has so many facets of care that I believe extend well beyond the traditional definitions, and I am excited to be a part of this ever evolving field. I am excited to care for others through educating and empowering my patients. It is also a lot of fun!

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University–Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 28-year old lifelong learner. I have been married for three years and have a cairn terrier that I adore. Before dental school, I was an algebra and chemistry teacher at an alternative high school, and I still have a passion for teaching. My family lives in Pulaski County (southwest Virginia).

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have always treasured helping people improve their lives, either through education or dental care. Additionally, I am passionate about dentistry as it merges my loves and strengths of science, art, and attention to detail. After experiencing other careers, I know I am meant to be in dentistry.

Hometown:
chapel Hill, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Oral Roberts University–Theology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
After 10 years working working as a youth/music/missions pastor I was able to pursue dentistry. During the next 5 years I worked for NC MOM as well as an oral surgeon and as a construction contractor. I still enjoy traveling abroad, gardening, building furniture, and playing music in my free time.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Although I have a varied background, for me dentistry is the perfect synthesis of everything I have done. The years I spent working in medical care for the underserved, construction, and doing relational work with people have helped prepare me in a unique -and advantageous - way.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU School of Dentistry–BS in Accounting , BS in Business Management, Certificate in Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My favorite hobbies are snowboarding, mountain biking and soccer. I enjoy traveling and experiencing different cultures through native cuisine and dance. Before I began my pursuit of dentistry, I worked in the finance industry.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the perfect combination of art, science, and business. It allows me to be creative and artistic while at the same time utilizing interpersonal skills and critical thinking. I can immediately see the results of my work while also being in a position to positively impact the community.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU –Bachelor of Business in Accounting/ Post Baccalaureate Pre-health Sciences Certificate.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a second year dental student, mother of two, and married. I have a passion for life and people. I love the fact that I finally was able to get into dentistry despite pursuing another career early on. I have been very fortunate to have the life that I have, and appreciate every minute of it.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My love of dentistry comes from my love to educate, reach out, and communicate with people, in addition to influencing their health. I have always loved science and love to see my accomplishments right away. Dentistry brings my passion of art, workmanship, science, and psychology together.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Economics B.S. and Asian Studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Harrisonburg, Va with my mom, dad and brother. I studied Economics and Chinese in collage and lived in Beijing for 2 years. When I am not in dental school, I want to be outside or traveling. I love mountain biking, hiking and skiing. I also love ballet, sculpting, painting and concerts.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was working in NYC and realized the financial industry did not satisfy my curiosity, give me the opportunity to work with my hands, create something or truly help someone. I went back to school to apply to dental school. Now that I have been in school for a year I know I made the right decision.