Reflections

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 30 years old Argentinian and a first-generation immigrant. I moved to the USA 10 years ago straight to Richmond, VA. I am currently living in Church Hill near MCV with my two cats (Lola & Leo). In my free time, I like to go to Latin events for salsa nights or walk around the VMFA with friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My parents have lost many of their permanent teeth due to a lack of knowledge about oral hygiene. I also suffer from all of this and my siblings when we were kids. Their past experience and my own inspired me to become a hygienist and help in need patients by providing oral hygiene care.

Hometown:
Charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Honduras. I am first-generation. I am the only child of a single mother who never went to high school. I have 2 dogs and a cat. I am trilingual (English, Spanish, French). I have been working in the dental field for 4 years. I enjoy doing ceramic art and spending time outdoors.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The Latinx community needs more representation in the dental field. I am often the only person able to translate for patients. I want to help educate and provide care for Latinx and low income families. I received a lot of my own dental treatment at the VDH free clinic and want to give back.

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:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry–Dental Hygiene Program

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is David Wein. I served as a Combat Civil Engineer reservist in the Air Force and was deployed in 2017. I married my wife, Breanne in 2020 and we have been living in the Midlothian area. We have a dachshund named Basil. Between Breanne and Basil, they are my best friend and motivators.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am an incredibly compassionate person who understands how important a smile can be to an individual. I like being able to help those people who need it most. Seeing my patient's confidence rise after completing my work is a heartwarming experience.

Hometown:
Newport News, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Norfolk State University –Bachelors of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from a rural city known as Surry County, VA; however, I recently moved to the city. I am currently living with my twin sister and we share an adorable aussiedoodle. After graduating from NSU, I have been working in an orthopedic office. I enjoy spending time with my family and fur baby.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion derives from the lack of proper dental hygiene in underprivileged communities. Many rural areas or low-income populations lack the accessibility and knowledge of preventative dental care. I want to reach out to these communities with my own education and knowledge to make a difference.

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first-generation Chinese American college student. I enjoy being active in my heritage as I am the treasurer for the Chinese Student Association at VCU. My favorite place in Virginia is Shenandoah Skyline Drive, where my friends and I go to watch the sunrise together.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My parents are diagnosed with periodontitis because they lacked dental care as children. I witnessed the financial burdens of maintenance and restorative visits. It inspired me to become a hygienist to provide oral hygiene care for underserved patients and prevent the likelihood of oral diseases.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bacherlor's of Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a rising senior dental hygiene student who values human interaction, community outreach, and setting goals. I aim to utilize these skills for continued professional development so I can inspire my patients with helpful recommendations specifically tailored their oral health needs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I'm passionate about dental hygiene because I yearn for the opportunity to empathize and provide feedback that motivates my patients to prevent complications rather than rely solely on treating them. It is truly rewarding to be able to help my patients obtain the healthy smile they desire.

Hometown:
Chester, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I currently am surrounded by my two parents and younger two brothers who support me in my endeavours. My parents are successful leaders and role models to me. I enjoy spending my free time with our pets. I often enjoy walking on trails and going kayaking with my dog, when the weather permits.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because of the direct patient care the dental team has with patients. We are able to impact a patient directly in our chair and help improve their self esteem, health, and functionality. I know that my passion is due to the direct impact we have on a patient's health.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
School of Dentistry–Bachelor's of Science in Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a plant enthusiast and this means that I get to explore nature more thoroughly during hikes at the Shenandoah. I have 3 guinea pigs that love to enjoy flowers as their snacks. I love to sing and dance in a crowd of my guinea pigs and friends. I am a Filipina and a first generation immigrant.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
This passion stems from my family's lack of experience in dental care. I did not know the importance of our oral health and its connection with our body until I became a DH student. I want to serve the communities that need it most in order to mitigate oral health conditions that are preventable.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Forest Resource Managment

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 33 years old and enjoy the outdoors including gardening, hiking, and visiting the mountains where I grew up. I have been married for almost 7 years and we have a 4 year old son. I grew up in Giles County in Southwest Virginia and prior to dental school I was a secondary educator for 6 years.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I enjoy educating others on the oral-systemic link and building relationships with patients. I have a strong passion for the underserved areas of Southwest VA and have seen first hand through volunteer experiences the need for support in those communities.

Hometown:
Hampton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –No degree currently earned

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a dedicated student who avidly volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and food banks in Hampton and Richmond.Outside of school, I enjoy road trip travels to visit friends and families all over the U.S.During the weekends,I come home to spend time with my family and take care of my husky puppy.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion stems from my mother who ingrained in me the importance of community service,which I have continued to carry with me upon learning my passion for dentistry.I believe a beautiful and healthy smile is important for everyone and I make it my mission to help diverse communities achieve this.

Hometown:
Newport News, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–BS Health, Physical Education and Exercise Science; BS Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy adventure whether it be making new friends, traveling, or immersing myself in different cultures. My time studying abroad has inspired me to incorporate service in my life.Besides spending time with friends and family, I enjoy exploring Richmond's food and art scene, hiking, cooking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gave me the give of hope when I wasn't aware of my own self-value. The dedication, passion, and artistry that I observed from my own oral healthcare professionals to help their patient achieve a smile they would be confident with is what ultimately inspired me to pursue dentistry.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Claudette Sullano, who was born and raised in the Philippines. I came to the United States about 10 years ago along with my twin sister, brother, and my parents. My favorite hobbies include drawing, painting, playing instruments (piano, clarinet), badminton, table tennis, etc.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Ever since I've struggled with the issue of my teeth, I've gotten lots of exposure in the dental field. And because of this, I fell in love with the dental environment which sparked a major interest and passion in pursuing a career in dentistry.

Hometown:
Reston, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Recent twenty-two-year-old graduate from James Madison University with a B.S. in Health Sciences. Passionate about health and the human body. Enjoys CrossFit and cooking/eating healthy food. Passionate about life and having the opportunity to make a difference for others.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
A tragic incident as a child lead to extensive dental visits. It grew an immense appreciation for dental hygiene. I am excited for the day when I get the opportunity to pay it forward - to turn my comfort, reassurance, and strong connection with my patients into more than fear, but a smile.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, 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 a single mother to a 6 year old daughter. I work part time cleaning dental offices to help support both my daughter and I while attending school full time. When not at school or studying I enjoy spending time with my daughter doing outdoor activities.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I believe that everyone should have access to affordable quality care. Growing up financial unstable, dental needs were viewed as a luxury rather than a necessity. Due to this I did not receive regular dental care. I became a dental assistant at 18 and my love for the field continues to flourish.

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:
Hayes, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
When not at school in Richmond, I enjoy traveling to my hometown of Gloucester, VA and visiting with family and friends. My hobbies include anything art-related (painting, drawing, building), reading, writing, spending time outdoors, and learning about and exploring as much of the world as I can!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Since I was a child, dentistry has had a special place in my heart. I always found the instruments and environment intriguing. From high school to present, I have volunteered my time with free clinics, MOM projects, and more, and seeing the difference I make in patients' lives is truly heartwarming.

Hometown:
Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University –Bachelor's degree

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Before attending VCU Dental Hygiene, I graduated from CNU where I received my BS in Biology. I was one of the only ones in my family to attend a four year college and have always worked hard when it comes to academics. When I'm not studying I enjoy spending quality time with friends and family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
What I love most about dental hygiene is that it's very people oriented and I can build relationships with my patients in hopes of improving their oral health. I have the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life by helping them obtain a healthier smile.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Mechanicsville, Virginia, which is right outside of Richmond. I spent three years as a biology major at VCU before being accepted into the Dental Hygiene Program. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, including my cat Charlie, as well as exploring Richmond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I discovered my passion for dentistry while I started working as a dental assistant in high school. It was truly amazing to see how much dental care can make such a huge impact on someone's life. Seeing patients put good effort into their home care to improve their oral health is so rewarding.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–B.S. in Biology 2016 and B.S. in Dental Hygiene 2019

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the youngest of six children and the only girl! I am originally from New Orleans but have lived in Richmond since I was 12. I love to travel to new places, discover new restaurants, and experience mind-blowing adventures such as skydiving and zip-lining!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dental hygiene began when I became self-aware of my own oral health status around age 13. Ever since then, I became a firm believer of the idea that prevention is the foundation to sustaining optimal oral and systemic health. My goal is to educate and shape lives, one smile at a time!

Hometown:
Dolphin, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Radford University–Sports Medicine

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up playing softball, I love to exercise and stay active. I played Division I softball at Radford University. I am from Southside, Virginia and plan to move back to the area upon graduation. I have two younger sisters, once of which is interested in pursuing dental hygiene.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being able to serve and educate those who may not have access to dental care is the reason I am so passionate about dentistry. Oral health in America is dwindling and educating patients and the underprivileged is a way to decrease this problem. VCU has given me the best chance to experience this.

Hometown:
Powhatan, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU School of Dentistry –Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am Jeriann Douglas. I have recently gotten into hiking as a hobby. I never realized how strenuous it was to hike. I did realized that once you get to the top of the mountain or finish the trail it is so spectacular. All of the rough terrain and the long hours are worth every minute of the view.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Throughout my first year I have learned so much about the field of dentistry. I am even more passionate about dentistry than before, because I realized that in one field alone we can reach into the community to improve overall personal health and the entire health of the community.

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born and raised in Northern VA; I moved to Richmond about 7 years ago where I received my B.S. in Biology at VCU. In my free time from school I enjoy working out, being outdoors as much as possible, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying the variety of activities Richmond has to offer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
For as long as I can remember I'v had an interest in the field of dentistry. I've seen many people who haven't been able to receive the dental care that they wanted or needed. I want to be able to provide others with dental care so they may feel not only comfort, but also confidence with their smile

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Bachelors of science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
When I was in middle school, I visited India and I decided to stay there. In my 3 years in India, I learned so much about the Indian culture and importance of loving and caring for each other. Keeping in mind what I learned I moved back to the states and finished the rest of my education here.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
During shadowing in dental clinics and discovered the Dental Hygiene profession. After witnessing the patient to clinician relationship, I realized this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life and I applied to dental hygiene school.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
John Tyler Community College–General Studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy spending time with my family as much as possible! I love to knit and give my projects away as gifts. I also play piano, guitar, and sing with the worship team at my church. Puppetry is another passion of mine. I have been involved with the puppet team at my church since I was 9.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides me the opportunity to work with my hands, make an impact in people's lives, and serve the those who may not have access to care. I have been on 4 international mission trips, and plan to go on dental trips after I am licensed.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 27 years old, and a dental hygiene senior student. I was born in S. Korea and I moved to U.S. in 1999. Ever since I joined VCU SoD, I became more involved in the community services. I am looking forward to volunteering more this summer as I came to enjoy serving my community.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I had a passion towards dentistry since I was an undergraduate student at VCU. I find helping the people in my community achieve excellent oral health is very meaningful. My passion towards dentistry grew deeper during my junior year as I began to provide services to many patients myself.

Hometown:
Powhatan, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
A little bit about me is that I am 20 years old, born and raised in Powhatan Va. Also I am the youngest of two other siblings and the first to go to college. I am currently engaged to an amazing guy and we are to be married August of 2018. I am also working at a coffee shop downtown as a barista.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I became passionate about dentistry when I realized dental professionals can help and care for people through oral health. I want to practice in the pediatric field of dentistry to teach children about the importance of dental hygiene and care for them.

Hometown:
Sterling, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Northern Virginia Community College–Associate of Science in Social Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Paola, I am a 22 year old rising dental hygiene senior student. I am originally from Northern Virginia where I live with my parents,brother, and puppy named Coco. When I am not focusing on school I enjoy reading, watching netflix and going hiking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The field of dentistry has allowed me to meet patients from various backgrounds all while working with other health care professionals.Finishing my jr. year has validated how important communication is and how happy I am to be in a field where I can use my interpersonal skills to provide better care

Hometown:
Charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am passionate about my career choice. Once I complete the dental hygiene program, I plan to work for a few years and later apply to the dental school. I love to spend time with family and our dog, Jack. I like to jogg and go hiking. I love listening to music and going to the movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love to make people feel better. I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I also knew i wanted to focus on a specific area of the body. Dentistry is fascinating and fun to me and time flies in clinic, because I truly enjoy spending time with patients and making them healthier individuals.

Hometown:
Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love scrap-booking and knitting. Any hobbies involving my hands. I also really enjoy helping people. Seeing the gratefulness of patients after helping them is an irreplaceable feeling.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love working with my hands, and it gives den the opportunity to help people in under-privileged areas. I enjoy forming relationships with my patients and getting to know them, which is important in the hygiene field because every patient has different needs as far as their oral hygiene goes.

Hometown:
Gainesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State Univeristy–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Chase Garris and I'm a third year dental student. I'm happily married to Sarah Garris who is also a third year dental student. We have two Labradors that are full of love and energy. When I'm not at school, I'm home-brewing beer, enjoying the outdoors, or spending time with family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry affords me the opportunity to fulfill many of my career goals. It allows me the unique ability to help others, serve the community, and challenge myself both physically and mentally. In my limited experience, the joy of improving the life of my patients has confirmed my love of dentistry.

Hometown:
Williamsburg , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU –Bachelor's in Dental Hygiene 2016

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Alex and I am currently a junior dental hygiene student. I commute from Williamsburg daily to school and love volunteering at the SPCA and the local heritage humane society and foster dogs in need. I love to volunteer in community events such as the annual 'Give Kids a Smile.'

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was always embarrassed by my about my discolored, crooked and crowded teeth growing up. I felt very shy and smiled only with my mouth closed. After the long process of getting my teeth fixed, I wanted to work in a profession in which I could also contribute to people’s lives in a meaningful way.

Hometown:
charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene Program

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
my name is Husai Azami. i will be attending Virginia commonwealth University upcoming fall of 2014.i am a single adult, and i do not have kids. i adore animals, especially cats.i have a couple hobbies that i enjoy enormously, such as gardening,and reading books.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
i have always wanted to become a dentist. To me, dentistry is bringing smiles to peoples' faces, and that has unlimited value. i love helping others out, and i believe the only way to come close and buildup relationships with others is throughgiving them happiness and bringing smiles in their live

Hometown:
Frederick , Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am just about 22 years old, single and currently working as a waitress. In my spare time I find myself being very active, at the gym, with friends or giving back to the community. I have asthma so I am allergic to animals but they still have the softest spot in my heart, I have two chihauhuas!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My mom worked in a dental office for over 20 years so that is where my fascination sparked. When I shadowed a dental hygienist that is what confirmed it for me that this is what I want to do! I also love that I can have different careers in this field with this degree.

Hometown:
North Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU School of Dentistry–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have lived most of my life in Chesterfield. I went to Longwood and earned a Biology degree. I returned to school after graduating in 1998. I am married & have 2 kids: a 3rd grade boy and 1st grade girl. We have 3 fish. I love family time, reading, movies, and spending quality time with my husband.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My mother did the best she could to raise two kids by herself. One thing she stressed was good dental hygiene. She ensured we had regular dental visits and her insistence on taking care of our teeth helped form my outlook on dental hygiene. I want to educate people about the importance of oral care.

Hometown:
Annandale, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–BS Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
In 2010, I won Miss Teen Philippines. The pageant gave me a sense of purpose to engage in the community and become passionate to represent it. Since then I have constantly been improving not only myself, but others around me. My goal is to become a stronger leader and encourage others to excel.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion stems from my childhood experience when my dental care providers helped me reverse gingivitis. Moreover, my parents grew up from a poor family and did not have the dental care I am blessed with. This made me about realize the importance of oral hygiene.

Hometown:
Stuarts Draft, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–N/A

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am single and interested in serving the Medicaid community. I worked at a pediatric office that only accepted Medicaid and it became my passion and joy to help those children in need. I love animals and currently have a dog and cat of my own. Both were rescued from dire circumstances.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dental hygiene because it is my way of helping others. I enjoy being able to give back and the dental community has many resources that allow us to help the community. Volunteering at the Mission of Mercy is one my best memories involving dentistry.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Michelle Grider. I am 22 years old and am currently living at home with my parents while attending Dental Hygiene school. I am a waitress at night to pay for tuition. I enjoy dancing: ballet, point, and jazz. I'm a happy person and enjoy spending time with my huge family of nine siblings.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I had a lot of dental work done growing up. I had an appliance, expander, two sets of braces, retainers, and some restorative work. I always enjoyed my dental visits, and my goal is to help break the stereotype of dental visits being a terrifying experience.

Hometown:
Herndon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Egypt and became a US citizen a few years ago. In my spare time, I like to play volleyball, go to the gym, and cook. I also like travelling and visiting new places. I went to visit my cousins in Germany and Belgium two years ago which was the most amazing trip in my life.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry for many reasons. First, it is such a great and a successful field that benefits our society by offering the best treatment for them. Second, dentistry does not only focus on teeth but it also focuses on the general health of the patients.

Hometown:
North Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a single female with a family of 7. I have a step dad, mother, 3 little sisters, and a brother. I have a dog named Missy and she is my world. In my free time I enjoy going to the gym to work out or playing field hockey. I also enjoy watching football in my free time. The Steelers are my team!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have been in the dentistry field since I was a junior in high school when I was a dental assistant. I have always loved to go to the dentist and it has made me want to become a dental hygienist. My hygienist I have been going to for years has definitely encouraged me to stay on this path.

Hometown:
Fredericksburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Germanna Community College–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a single mom of my 16 month old son Bryce, who is my whole world. My time is consumed of being a full time mom, a full time student, and a volunteer at my church in my hometown in Fredericksburg.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have wanted to be in the dental field since I was 5 years old and believed that I would grow up being the best dentist in the whole world. However I learned about hygiene and felt my heart leading towards the prevention side especially in children which is why I am enrolled in the hygiene program.

Hometown:
Warrentown, VA

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech, Environmental Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I consider myself a strong student academically, but outside of my studies my favorite thing to do is find fun and new ways to challenge my body physically or simply put - fun exercise. I play sports year round and also enjoy doing any sort of water or mountain sports (activities that allow me to appreciate the great and beautiful outdoors while being active).

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about it for many reasons. First - it is my dream career and naturally I am passionate about what I plan to do the rest of my life. My drive to be the best I can at what I do fuels my passion. Second, I feel dentistry embodies the 3 things that move the world - science, technology, and people - all at the tips of my fingers. And that gets me really excited about practicing.