Reflections

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:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –History Major, Political Science Minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up outside of Richmond in Mechanicsville, VA. I work part-time as a pharmacy technician, and volunteer at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. In my spare time, I enjoy board game nights with my friends, going on walks with my dog, Lily, painting with Bob Ross, and playing violin.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up around the dental school, I saw the positive impacts dental care can have on one's health and confidence. I love to teach and studying hygiene will not only allow me to offer health education to patients, but it will also give me the tools to pursue a future career in dental instruction.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Biology, Minor Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a DIYer by necessity. I grew up in rural Vermont and moved to Richmond, VA in 2006. I met my husband, a fellow Vermonter, through my dormitory roommate. We have a four-year-old girl, and one-year-old boy-girl twins. I share my love of biology, nature, reading, and volunteerism with my family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My interest in dentistry began in 2008 as a dental assisting career. My passion spreads into my free time. I spend hours researching and testing OTC products for my patients. I am in the process of publishing a review in a dental hygiene journal. I enjoy volunteering weekly at free dental clinics.

Hometown:
Church Road, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry Dental Hygiene Program –Bachelor's of Science Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am twenty-four years old and I'm from Dinwiddie, VA. I bought a house in May of 2017, I am engaged and love my family. Dog Mom. My first year of Dental Hygiene school was an amazing journey and I look forward to continuing my career using evidence-based research to thoroughly care for my patients

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The doors open and excitement started. The smell of the dentist office was my favorite, plus the treasure chest was a plus. I was that weird kid who loved the old fluoride, you know the one in the tray? I have loved dentistry since a child and I cannot wait to continue my education.

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia. I am biracial (Caucasian and African American). My parents divorced when I was very young and I was raised by my single, very hard-working mother. I have an older and younger brother. I am a first generation college student.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry, to me, is a culmination of teamwork and self-drive. It takes a lot of skill and patience to be an efficient dental professional. Teamwork and motivation is essential for optimal patient care and a smooth running practice. Dentistry has pushed me out of my shell and into a stronger person.