Reflections

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Science - Professional Science, Minors in Biology and Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Since my senior year of high school, I have worked as a dental assistant. Beyond dentistry, my passions center around nature - hiking, fishing, hunting, and caring for animals. I am currently training my 6 month old black lab to retrieve waterfowl for this upcoming winter season!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry is fueled by anatomy, knowledge, and discovery. However, personal experiences have been the primary driving force behind my dedication. Witnessing the impact of oral health on people's lives, the challenges they face, and the barriers to proper care has ignited my passion.

Hometown:
New Kent, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My fiancé and I live in New Kent, Virginia, just 25 minutes east of Richmond. I enjoy gardening, cooking and doing DIY projects around the house. Our family is most important to us so we spend as much time as we can with them.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dental hygiene has been a passion of mine since high school. It took me three years to get into VCU’s program so my determination was evident. The thing I love most about dentistry so far is the connections I make with my patients. I know I am making a difference in my patient’s lives.

Hometown:
Hanover , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–N/A

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Marissa Balducci, and I'm a rising senior dental hygiene student. My values consist of family, community, and serving others. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring the many different restaurants in Richmond, tap dancing, and taking walks along the James River.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I'm passionate about dentistry because it fulfills my desire to serve others while also allowing me to build unlikely relationships with people from all different walks of life. I believe treating patients for their oral conditions and positively impacting their health is both a privilege and honor.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelors of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am currently a fourth year dental student enjoying life in Richmond. I enjoy spending time with my classmates. Most of all, I value every moment spent with my family, my biggest support system. We have overcome many obstacles after immigrating from Colombia, and I owe my success to my parents.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the cross-section of my passions for healthcare, ethics, and art. The attention to intricate detail in dentistry can lead to an immense improvement of quality of life to a patient. Its universal impact has lasting effects in people beyond the dental chair.

Hometown:
Manassas, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology Major, Chemistry Minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Manassas, VA and moved to Richmond for college when I was 18. I love exploring the city with my rescue dog, Clover. I also enjoy singing, songwriting, cooking, and watching hockey. In my time off, I enjoy visiting my family and playing with my sweet toddler nephew and baby niece.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gives me the opportunity to combine everything I love - science, art, helping others, and socializing. I have found each day to be exciting, with no interaction the same from patient to patient. It is constantly advancing and pushing us to become better. I am so lucky to be a part of it.

Hometown:
Roanoke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The College of William and Mary –Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I live on a farm in Roanoke, Virginia. I have been riding horses since I was six, and I have been playing flute and piano for even longer. I have two birds that I take care of in addition to the horses, and I enjoy gardening and knitting when I have free time.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has been a part of my life since I was young. I have always been passionate about helping people, and I have seen how good dental care can transform patients. Making patients happy and healthy inspires me daily, and I am excited to build long-lasting relationships with them.

Hometown:
Rocky Mount, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–B.S-Biology, Minor in Chemistry, All with University Honors

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from a rural area but really love the city! I enjoy spending time with family, friends, exploring RVA, restaurants and cultural events. Being of Hispanic heritage, I have enjoyed many different cultural events throughout the city. Painting, movies and traveling satisfy any spare time I have.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry is based in medical science, but allows me to work with my hands and use my artistic side. I enjoy a patient coming in with many concerns and sorting through possible treatment options, putting the puzzle pieces together.