Reflections

Hometown:
Harrisonburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Virginia's College at Wise–Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
In my spare time, I love to play volleyball and pickleball. I’ve won 3 intramural volleyball championships at VCU. I’m a huge music lover and listen to every genre, from Broadway musicals to oldies from the 50s-80s. I also love to explore different cultures’ foods, read, hike, and play video games.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has been my passion for half my life. It combines my love for science with my deep desire to help others. The power of a healthy smile is unparalleled, as it can restore confidence and dramatically improve the quality of one’s life. I love that I can give hope to others through dentistry.

Hometown:
Sterling , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up, I spent the weekends with my family watching soccer and grilling in the backyard. We made carne asada and other traditional Salvadorian dishes. Now in Richmond, I still find myself keeping to the same traditions with friends. I also love running and hiking with my Great Dane Stella.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has allowed me to grow closer to the Richmond community. I’m able to use my collaboration and problem-solving skills on a daily basis to help others. Treating spanish speaking and uninsured patients in particular brings me great pride. I’m thankful for the opportunity to help those in need

Hometown:
Herndon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Bachelor of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am married to the love of my life, Steven, and at the end of my first year of dental school, we adopted our dog Bruno. Who is obsessed with peanut butter and does zoomies for no reason. I also love baking, going to the gym and spending time with all my loved ones.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is compromised of what I love - science, art and community. Going to free clinics when I was younger because of my family's financial situation made me realize that dentistry is a field that runs on compassion and instills confidence in all patient's which is what I want to be part of.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Winston-Salem State University–Bachelor of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from the small town of Danville ,VA where I participate in church events and community service. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, and do it yourself projects. I value spending time with my family and often embark on new adventures. I hope one day to travel the world and see the Olympic games.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
It is with enthusiasm and care I select dentistry. This career permits versatility in order to reach patients in many ways, all of which will equip me to educate and promote prevention. Foremost dentistry will allow me to build / strengthen my community through awareness, trust, and diversity.

Hometown:
Abingdon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Bachelors of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m a middle child in a family of 6 born & raised in the mountains of Southwest VA. I’m an outgoing, positive, hard worker. In my spare time I love reading, cycling, laughing with friends, & spending time in the kitchen. Someday I’ll travel the world & have a kitchen that'd make any chef jealous.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry combines artistry & science while giving the opportunity to care for others’ needs. I am excited to be entering a career field that offers daily challenges, lifelong learning, and an opportunity to serve my community. In dentistry I can make a difference and have fun doing it.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor of science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an avid professional sports fan and enjoy playing intramural sports when I get the chance. I spend my free time playing golf and catching up with friends and family. I also enjoy taking trips to the lake to go fishing or engage in water sports.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I feel very strongly that we, as dentists, have the ability to not only relieve patients of pain or restore functionality, but can also improve confidence and self-image. The differences that I can make in a patient's life are what fuel my passion.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Virginia Beach and love all things involving the ocean. I love spending my day outside -- my favorite things to do are surf and body surf. I currently live with my boyfriend who is a Virginia Beach firefighter.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry requires lifelong learning and provides a creative outlet by allowing you to work with your hands.

Hometown:
Carrollton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Old Dominion University–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising third year student from Smithfield, Virginia. I was a nationally ranked high school wrestler, and I am currently talking with past teammates about volunteering as an assistant coach in local Richmond high schools. I also enjoy surfing and playing guitar in between class and studying.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I want to help people. I benefited from great dental care over the years, and I want to share that with people in my community. I was attracted to dentistry because it changed my smile, but I fell in love with dentistry because I have seen it changes lives.

Hometown:
Jarratt, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelors in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I currently live with my fiance in Richmond, Va. I have 2 cats at my house, but I was raised on a small farm with many pets. I'm from a small town called Purdy in Va and there my parents keep my horse, Joe. Wherein my favorite hobby is horseback riding!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My love for dentistry began at my first job during high school. My employment as a dental assistant for the next 8 years strengthened that feeling. I am passionate about the people we service, teamwork involved in the work place, and the overwhelming feeling of accomplishment after each procedure.

Hometown:
Pulaski, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am one of the older students in my class, at the current age of 34. I have been married for seven years, and have a golden retriever named Ginger. My wife and I do not have kids, but would like to start our family in the near future. I enjoy the outdoors: hunting, fishing, and flying airplanes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Working at Lowe's for 8 years gave me a great appreciation for working with the public, and finding solutions for their needs was very rewarding. I feel dentistry gives me the opportunity to work with people, solve problems, and use my creativity and hand skills to help those around me.