Reflections

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Talia Abdo and I am humbled to have finished my first year and excited to begin my second. I value time spent with loved ones and enjoy making special memories. During my free time, I like to focus on doing self-care activities that re-energize me like baking or watching comfort movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry is something that has grown immensely since beginning at VCU. I have observed and experienced the ability dentists have to positively impact a patient’s oral health, self-esteem, and quality of life. I am truly honored to one day hold such an impactful role in my community.

Hometown:
Meadowview, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–1st degree: Biochemistry 2nd degree: Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first-generation college student from Southwest Virginia, and I received my undergraduate degrees from Virginia Tech (Go Hokies). In my free time I enjoy watching sports, getting outdoors, playing board games or video games with my roommates + friends, and exploring new places around RVA.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it is a profession like no other in the healthcare field. I am drawn to the long-term relationships we are able to form, and the impact we are able to have on our communities. We can transform smiles, and lives, with the work we do which is so rewarding!

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
William & Mary–B.S in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 22-year-old woman with various passions, from being a dedicated gym rat, to cooking, to ensuring my Pitbull has the best life a dog could dream of. Due to my age, I learn about myself every day from seeking new passions to navigating what it means to be an adult in today's society.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Coming from a low-income household, where none of us had dental insurance, I have experienced the socioeconomic barriers that prevent access to oral healthcare, and the implications that result. I am determined to help bridge this gap by serving marginalized communities throughout my career

Hometown:
South Boston, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Liberty University–Biomedical Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in a rural town in Southside VA. I grew up close to my family, and have remained that way to this day. I am unmarried and have no children. I enjoy playing sports to keep active, mainly basketball, but also tennis, disc golf, golf, and soccer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When I was young, I had a pediatric dentist who inspired me to become a dentist someday. He was so kind and caring to all his patients, and he made me love going to the dentist. I am passionate about inspiring everyone to love dental care and see the importance of maintaining healthy teeth.

Hometown:
Gaithersburg, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
Clemson University–Financial Management

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I live downtown with my two dogs who I truly enjoy training. I’m hoping to start volunteering with one of them at the Children’s hospital soon. When not studying I am outdoors whether that be exploring the city, hiking, or being on the river. I also love reading, music, and playing my guitar.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the intersection of science, engineering, and art. I love creating something with my hands that is not only beautiful, but also one of the most useful tools that a patient will have. As a dentist, I also look forward to helping patients with both their oral and systemic health.

Hometown:
Fairfax Station, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I practice the Sikh faith, which is founded on 3 main principles: living an honest life, striving for justice for all and community service. My passion for cooking and trying new cuisines is what inspired me to become an avid food blogger. Lastly, one of my greatest joys is playing with my nieces.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being able to provide adequate oral health care to individuals in need, especially those that are unable to obtain basic dental care, restoring confident smiles they deserve and creating a safe and comfortable experience for patients will allow me to receive instant gratification, just by helping.

Hometown:
Gretna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology, BS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have two pets! Pippa is a golden-doodle puppy that I recently welcomed to the family. We are taking nice long walks this summer. Cosmo is my tabby cat, named after Cosmo Kramer from Seinfeld. It's my favorite show, and I love that it has an added bonus of great dental humor.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about the opportunities I am afforded by practicing dentistry. Dentistry brings forth challenges; I like how it feels to overcome them. Developing relationships with patients, and helping them meet their goals, is as rewarding for me as it is for them.

Hometown:
Forest, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Liberty University–Biomedical Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am married and plan on having kids soon as family is very important to me. In my little free time, I enjoy playing music, painting, running, swimming, surfing, rock climbing, and more. I'm heavily involved in a local church where I have volunteered in childcare and worship services.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion comes from the ability of dentistry to serve people. Whether that is helping a patient with something as personal as the appearance of their face, learning about the patient's life and family, or serving on the mission field, my passion for dentistry finds its root in patients as people.

Hometown:
Ruther Glen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Chemical Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I live in Caroline County with my wife, two dogs, and cat. In my spare time, you can usually find me running, biking, playing games, or throwing a tennis ball for the dogs. My wife is a VCU Dentistry graduate so we naturally spend lots of time discussing dentistry techniques and cases.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gives an incredible opportunity to learn, develop skills, and educate while directly helping others. I left my career as an engineer because I wasn't having an immediate positive impact on those around me. I also just find diagnosing, treating, and teaching others to be very fun!

Hometown:
Rocky Mount, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–B.A. in Biology, Minor in Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from the small town of Rocky Mount, VA and a 2019 graduate of UVA. Some of my hobbies include running especially in "The Fan" and trying to improve my golf game. Also, I love to play different organized sports such as basketball, softball, and dodgeball.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides a unique opportunity to have a profound impact on an individual's life and perception of self with their smile. Also, enabling me to develop long-lasting patient relationships through continuous care and to see families grow in a tight-knit dental office.

Hometown:
Gretna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology, BS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 24 years old and the youngest of four children. I am blessed as my three siblings made me the aunt of 6 little ones so far! Spending time with my family is what I enjoy the most. I recently adopted a kitten, Cosmo, to liven up my apartment here in Richmond. He is from southern VA, just like me!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
A patient's gratitude for something as simple as holding their hand during an injection epitomizes my passion to exceed expectations in dental school. Soon, I will of course give the injections myself. However, my ability to positively impact my patient's day--or even their life--remains the same.

Hometown:
Free Union, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–B.S. Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a single woman who loves art, being outside, and gardening. I grew up on a farm and I love horse-back riding and animals of any kind. I have two cats right now and go home often to visit my parents and the farm in Charlottesville, VA.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have been passionate about dentistry since I started shadowing in the Charlottesville free clinic. I think that there is nothing more rewarding than helping someone get out of pain or feel more comfortable in dentistry. I worked under really kind dentists there.

Hometown:
Blacksburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Washington and Lee University–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a second generation Malay-American, born and raised in Blacksburg, VA. I have a passion for soccer that my younger brother and I share. I try to stay as active as possible through exercise, snowboarding, golf, and hiking. I’ve always been fascinated by astronomy and even more so by great food.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When thinking about a career to pursue I realized dentistry was the one. It revolves around scientific evidence while utilizing abilities I greatly value: artistry, creativity, and dexterity. I want to apply these skills to provide the highest level of care to the patients I serve in the community.

Hometown:
Bedford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Lynchburg–Biomedical Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm an accomplished pianist and violinist, and have played in several orchestras and other musical organizations. I enjoy photography, running, and watching documentaries. I am the second-youngest of seven children, and enjoy spending time with my parents, siblings, and eleven nieces and nephews.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion comes from my mother, who stressed the importance of oral care to my family because of her parents and aunt who suffered complications from undiagnosed oral disease. I love dentistry because it allows me to prevent disease, make a difference, and put a smile on the faces in my community.

Hometown:
Pulaski, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–BS in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in southwest VA on a beef cattle and horse farm. Rodeo has always been a passion of mine. I have competed in rodeo/western riding competitions in middle and high school as well as collegiately. I am recently engaged and have a Chiweenie that lives here in Richmond with me.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being from a rural, underserved area I have seen the need for general dentists in small towns like mine. After volunteering at a free clinic in my area I knew dentistry was a passion of mine. I love the patient relationships and the needed service I will be able to provide.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I came to the U.S.A. in 2001 at 14 with my siblings. We were raised by our grandma, who passed away last year. I became a U.S. citizen in 2012. I am the "eccentric" one in my family. According to them, I am usually introverted but secretly outgoing. I love traveling solo and am a huge animal lover.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I want to spread the joy of being able to smile and enjoy good food. I believe those two are the most fundamental actions to live a happy life.

Hometown:
Beaverdam, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–B.A. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Raised in Beaverdam, VA where I learned to love the outdoors and small towns. I enjoy spending my free time traveling, boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, and spending time at the beach.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love being able to work with my hands restoring, creating, and improving a patients overall health through dentistry. Through volunteering weekly at the Charlottesville Free Dental Clinic, I saw how impacting our profession can be in the lives of those who cant afford dental procedures.

Hometown:
Hiwassee, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Radford University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I hail from Pulaski and Montgomery Counties of SWVA. I fell in love with that region from an early age due to the natural beauty it holds in its great outdoors. My life thus far has revolved around my family, the outdoors, and my education. I am beyond excited to practice dentistry back home.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I realized how important dentists were in our community when I was 8 years old. An accident caused me to fracture #9 so my parents drove me 30 minutes to our dentist. She restored both my flawed appearance and confidence that day. Ever since, I have aspired to do the same for others.

Hometown:
Bedford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Lynchburg–Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a music-lover and an accomplished pianist and violinist, playing in several orchestras and my church. I enjoy photography, running/exercise, and learning about new things. I am the second-youngest of seven children, and enjoy spending time with my parents, siblings, and ten nieces and nephews.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion comes from my mother, who stressed the importance of oral care to my family because of her parents and aunt who suffered complications from undiagnosed oral disease. I love dentistry because it allows me to prevent disease, make a difference, and put a smile on the faces in my community.

Hometown:
Haysi, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Virginia's College at Wise–B.A.-Chemistry and B.A.-History

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Haysi, VA. When I'm not studying, I enjoy spending time with my girlfriend, Kaillen, and my family. I also spend much of my free time cheering for my beloved New York Yankees or Tennessee Volunteers. I also enjoy exercising and reading, particularly books about American history.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I come from an underserved population, and I have seen first-hand the need for dentists in southwestern Virginia. I love southwest Virginia and Appalachia as a whole, and I feel that dentistry will allow me to give back to the area that I care so much about.

Hometown:
Roanoke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Raised in the mountains of SW Virginia, I grew up loving the outdoors. I enjoy adventure whether it be down by a river, hiking trails, or being out of my comfort zone and broadening my horizons. Outside school, I spend most of my time with friends and family, including my new five-month-old niece.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The power that dentistry has is insurmountable. Its ability to not only change one’s physical health, but also change the way a person looks at themselves is what fascinates me the most. I cannot wait until I can help someone smile freely and with confidence, as well as without pain or discomfort.

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:
King George, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a lifelong resident of Virginia. I met my wife at King George High School. We were engaged while enrolled at James Madison University, and finally married the year before I enrolled in dental school. We love to fish back home, hike the Appalachians, cook new recipes, and ski if weather permits.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
After his divorce, my dad enrolled in VCU dental school. From age 8, I saw the school and the labs. I eventually shadowed him in his pediatric clinic in Suffolk. Seeing his satisfaction and fulfillment encouraged me to follow. Now, I understand how much happiness can come from serving my patients.

Hometown:
Hillsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Alex Wood. I live with my wife, Jamie, and my beagle, Ruby. I love to fly fish, play disc golf, woodwork and backpack when I get free time. These things keep me active and allow me to be creative. I am from Southwest VA and am the first person in my family to attend a doctoral program.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a unique profession. It allows art, science, and problem solving to intersect with the ability to help others. Dentistry unites some of my favorite skills and interests and I am blessed with the opportunity to use these skills in a single occupation.

Hometown:
Draper, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biochemistry and Microbiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Southwest Virginia where I participated in many outdoor activities. Now, as a dental student in Richmond, I continue to engage in various outdoor hobbies with my golden retriever, Lia. I love hiking, biking, running, camping, etc., especially with a few textbooks packed to bring along!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
In my childhood community, many people overlooked dental care due to lack of providers or insurance coverage. From a young age, I knew I wanted to help with this dilemma. I want to make dental care more accessible to the under-served and educate patients on the importance of regular oral care.

Hometown:
Abingdon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Bachelors of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Southwest Va with an older sister, 2 annoying little brothers & several furry siblings. I'm an outgoing, positive, & determined person. I enjoy reading, running, & laughing with friends. I love cooking & especially baking. Someday I'll have a kitchen that would make Rachel Ray jealous.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry combines artistry & science all while giving you the opportunity to care for others. 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:
Charleston, South Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
College of Charleston–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an uncle to 14 nieces/nephews and a brother to seven siblings. I speak Spanish proficiently and treat Spanish speaking patients. I lift weights and swim before school. My hobbies include playing the keyboard, being an active member of my church and playing intramural basketball and football.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the perfect medium where I can continuously improve the health, confidence and quality of life of my patients while also pushing my limits intellectually in a field that is continuously advancing. It also gives me the privilege to serve the underserved populations through mission work.

Hometown:
Hiwassee, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Radford University –B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 22 year old rising D2 from Pulaski/Montgomery County VA. I lived at home on the family farm while earning my degree from Radford University in three years. While I have really enjoyed D1 year (especially operative lab), I enjoy spending my free time outdoors back in southwest Virginia.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have always admired the constant positive interactions that dentists have with their patients every day. I also love the artistic aspect of restorative dentistry. My favorite part of D1 was restoring large MODBL preparations to proper anatomic form with both amalgam and composite.

Hometown:
roanoke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am currently a third year dental student from Roanoke, Virginia. I obtained a B.S. in Biochemistry at Virginia Tech. After I graduated, I worked as a dental assistant in a sliding scale clinic working with patients from low socioeconomic background to help with access to oral health care.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I believe that each patient is a unique puzzle that requires vision and critical thinking. The ability to recreate a tooth from scratch and change someone's life forever, in itself, is a form of art. I am honored to do this kind of work everyday.

Hometown:
Haysi, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Virginia at Wise–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a fourth year dental student from rural southwestern Virginia. Outside of dentistry, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my fiancée Kaitlyn and my black Labrador Retriever, Max. I also enjoy fishing and golfing in my free time.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry comes from the joy I see on patients' faces when you improve their smile or fix a bothersome tooth. Dentistry allows me to practice my technical skills with artistry every day, it also allows me to provide a needed service in my community.

Hometown:
Forest, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Roanoke College–Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My kitty Callie and I live downtown. This past year, I have devoted more time to running and trying healthy recipes. Highlights of dental school thus far include serving as president of Psi Omega and the Special Care Interest Group, providing dental care in Belize and planning the Dental Ball.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Within a few minutes, new patient’s share intimate details of their life. These interactions create a unique bond centered on trust and friendship. This propels me to continue improving my hand skills, reading literature and learning about new technologies to provide the highest quality of care.

Hometown:
Big Stone Gap, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –B.A. Biology & Religious Studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Big Stone Gap, Virginia nestled within the Appalachian Mountains. I love spending time outdoors whenever possible. I have a passion for the history of Appalachia and I enjoy crocheting, crafting, and writing about Virginia State Parks and the Appalachian region.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it is the only career in which I can combine my passion for community, science, and art. Dentistry allows me to interact and care for my community on a daily basis while providing me the personal enjoyment of not only being creative, but utilizing science.

Hometown:
Cherry Valley , Illinois

Undergraduate school/degree:
Augustana College –Bachelor of Arts in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising D2 student and fur mom to our eight-month-old puppy, Theo. My boyfriend of 7 years, and I adopted him from a non-for profit rescue when he was 9 weeks old. We are avid Chicago Cubs fans, and named him after Theo Epstein (their General Manager) when they won the World Series in 2016.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The initial spark that ignited my passion to become a dentist was illuminated early. After many academic terms, traveling abroad, and completing a master’s degree- one common thread was my love of caring for patients. Dentistry's ability to provide healthcare at such a compassionate level hooked me!

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Economics B.S with International Economics concentration, Asian Studies minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Harrisonburg, Va with my mom, dad and brother. Being outside cycling and skiing with friends and family makes me happy. In Richmond, I love to go to the VMFA exhibits and music concerts. On the artistic side, I make and paint life-size faux sport fish taxidermy from papier mache

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has allowed me to work with my hands, create and truly help others. After being in clinic working with patients, I know I made the right choice. I have been frustrated and stressed but I have also been challenged, learned new skills, given autonomy and have given people a smile.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Carl Leiner and I am an incoming D2 student at VCU School of Dentistry. My most recent achievement is being accepted into a research lab pertaining to periodontal regeneration! I cannot wait until the summer where I will be volunteering at WISE, Mission of Mercy and Give Kids a Smile.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am creative, innovative, communicate well, empathetic, scientifically curious, and have been committed to this field at an early age. Dentistry combines all these features that highlight my character and values. Also, dentistry provides me opportunities to dramatically improve a person's life.

Hometown:
Jarratt, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I currently live away from home with my fiance and our three cats. Back home, in the country, my parents keep my other pets including my horse, Joe. I especially enjoy going horseback riding along trails in the area. While away from home, I also enjoy doing little bits of arts and crafts.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I thoroughly enjoy working with different people, of different personalities, and being able to rely on a team every day. Dentistry is the perfect fit for servicing the community, working with my hands, and using my own creativity. I aim to be a "people pleaser" and to help improve others well-being

Hometown:
Wellesley, Massachusetts

Undergraduate school/degree:
Washington & Lee University–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the youngest of four children and grew up in a small suburban town outside of Boston, MA. After coming down to Virginia for an opportunity to swim in college, I never left. My favorite activity to do outside of school is to visit my 5, soon to be 6, nieces and nephews.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a dentist, I will be able to provide quality dental care and take an interest in my patient's outside life. The opportunity to form a genuine relationship with a patient, which I have experienced at various RAM/MOM clinics throughout VA, epitomizes the passion I have for a career in dentistry.

Hometown:
Cary, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
UNC-Chapel Hill–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a Tar Heel! At UNC I was on the varsity diving team and continue to stay active in the sport by substitute coaching at a local year-round club team. I have a wild 1 year old pug, Olivia, and a partner of 3 years, John, who's a rising 4th year dental student in Augusta, GA.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
There is something so intimate about one's teeth and smile that when fixed for the better, it can drastically improve one's quality of life. I find so much joy in clinic treating my patients and I have a desire to become excellent in all services I provide with exemplary personal bedside manner.

Hometown:
Ricmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–B.S. in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Richmond, VA. Family and I moved to Taiwan when I was four, and moved back to Richmond when I was thirteen. I can speak, write, and read Mandarin Chinese. I took piano lessons for twelve years, which I enjoy playing very much. I also enjoy playing basketball and watching NBA games.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because dentistry is full of caring and passionate people wanting to make a difference to the wider community. It is satisfying to have the ability to provide various procedures to help the patients becoming happier, healthier, and gaining confidence.

Hometown:
Rocky Mount, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Major: Biology Minor: Chemistry (as well as University Honors)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy spending time with family and friends. In my spare time, I stay active exploring Richmond and all the cultural events and history. I volunteer my time through various organizations. I also enjoy exercising, painting and movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
A smile has a huge impact on people just as the ability to smile can affect a person’s personality and confidence. I’ve seen through MoM projects how dental care can positively affect someone. Dental care effects overall health. I want to help people stay healthy through my passion of dentistry.

Hometown:
Haysi, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Virginia at Wise–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Tyler Davis. I am a rising D2 student here at VCU. I am currently 23 years old and single with no children. My hobbies mostly revolve around my love of the outdoors. I enjoy fishing, hiking and golfing. I also enjoy spending my free time with my black Labrador Retriever, Max.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry because it involves so many interesting and diverse fields. Becoming a dentist I can combine my love for science, art, and medicine to provide the best care possible for my patients. Dentistry also provides a great way to make a positive difference in someone's life every single day

Hometown:
Carrollton, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 23 years old and from the small town of Smithfield, Virginia. I was a nationally ranked high school wrestler that transitioned to surfing and playing the guitar in college. I also enjoy writing, which I even had a blog that I used to help people experiencing difficulties in their lives.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I became passionate about dentistry the moment my braces were removed and I could smile without having to cover my mouth. Not only can a dentist fix someone's smile, they can also improve their quality of life. I'm driven because I want to make a difference, no matter how small.

Hometown:
Forest , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Roanoke College –Biochemistry BS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born and raised in Central Virginia, I grew up with two younger siblings and two dogs. In my free time, I enjoy going to amusement parks, swimming baking and running. A fun fact is the next two items on my bucket list are to go skydiving and to run the Richmond Half Marathon.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
From my firsthand experiences of seeing the consequences that people face from not having access to sufficient oral health care, I have developed a heightened sense of compassion and a zealous longing to further assist those who are lacking this fundamental health right.

Hometown:
Clemmons, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Washington and Lee University–BS in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Hello! My name is Camden Smith and am a rising fourth year dental student. I grew up in rural North Carolina and was one of five children. When not in school, I enjoy excercising, spending time on the river, and relaxing with my two dogs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry provides me the opportunity to have an immediate effect on somehow's life. The feeling that one gets from relieving pain or improving a patient's esthetics cannot be matched.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–BA in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising senior dental student. My best friend is my little (well not so little) human-like boxer puppy, Riley. I enjoy hanging out with my friends, taking Riley to dog parks, working out at the gym, shopping, spending quality time with my family, and my most recent hobby of target shooting.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I truly believe dentistry is my calling. I have loved every minute of my journey thus far and I feel blessed that I enjoy my chosen career so much. I love the detailed nature of the profession, along with its artistic quality, and ability to help others in both the health field and esthetically.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am engaged to be married on May 3, 2014, and I am very excited to get married. My fiance and I have a dog named Wrangler that we adopted last year from the SPCA. My hobbies include running, being outside, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to help people in a tangible and life-changing way. Dentistry allows my to develop a lasting relationship with my patients. I also enjoy that dentistry allows me to inspire patients to improve their oral and overall health.

Hometown:
Roanoke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the youngest of six children and a proud Aunt of four nephews. Being from Roanoke, I have always enjoyed being outdoors and taking advantage of the mountains by going hiking and camping. I am Vietnamese and food is a big part of our culture so I enjoy cooking and trying foods of all cultures.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry to me is about being able to help others in so many ways beyond their dental needs. I enjoy being able to address their dental problems, but also being able to form relationships, assist in increasing their self-confidence, and improve their overall health one smile at a time.

Hometown:
Salem, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–B.S. Kinesiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a 24 year old rising D2 from Salem, VA. I went to UVA (go hoos!) for undergrad and love playing tennis, painting/refurbishing furniture, cooking (mostly desserts) and hiking. I'm, also, hoping to adopt a beagle puppy from the SPCA in the near future!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love the challenge and attention to detail dentistry requires of an individual. D1 year has allowed me to develop and hone my skills. I think the greatest fulfillment will come from helping a patient and knowing that the work you did has made such a difference in his/her life.

Hometown:
Covington, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Louisiana, but have lived in Virginia since 2004. My family lives in the small town of Covington, Virginia in the western mountainous region of the state. I hope to practice general dentistry in rural Virginia near the area where my family lives.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
While young, I became interested in the dental field. I realized that not only can it provide a stable income to support my family, but also was a real need in the rural area that I lived. My interest became even more evident as I began to shadow local dentist and visualize their positive impact.

Hometown:
Gate City, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
East Tennessee State University–Health Sciences Major, BS (Microbiology Concentration)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My hobbies include: clogging, listening to music, swimming, scrapbooking, photography, and traveling. I also enjoy exploring the attractions around the Richmond area, such as art museums, historical landmarks, and local parks. Being outside and enjoying nature is one of my favorite pastimes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up in a small town where my mother, a hygienist, and my father, a dentist, have served the oral health care needs of the local community for over twenty-eight years. Their passion for the profession and for helping others is what inspired me to pursue the path of becoming a dentist.