Reflections

Hometown:
Rockville, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, Baltimore County–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an outgoing D.5 student who will be entering the dental class of 2026 in the fall. I am originally from Rockville, Maryland, and attended UMBC for my Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, and George Mason University for my Master's of Science in Biology. I love running, hiking, and biking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because of my experiences with how vast an effect oral health can have on a person’s life, as witnessed in my home country of Lebanon. I have seen firsthand the mental, emotional, and financial toll poor dental education or care can have on both a person and community

Hometown:
Lorton, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a proud son of immigrants, an enthusiastic learner, and a reflective individual. This is my base. From there, I love to cook, go outdoors, and hang out with friends and family. This is what I value in my personal life. Now, I look to become a dentist who establishes his own business one day.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me, dentistry is what I am looking for. The medical techniques are intriguing and the patient-doctor relationships are priceless. Furthermore, I see a lot of possibility in dentistry, from establishing new businesses to creating new techniques and technologies.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
William & Mary–Bachelor's of Science: Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I revel in stories of human connection. It is comforting to see how we are the same as people in my Egyptian translations or in Classical poetry; it is heartening to see how much we have grown from those times too. We are always seeking to connect, heal, and love. I wrap myself in these stories.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I look at dentistry and I see a field where I can make a positive, more inclusive change. There is opportunity for me to create space for voices that often feel underrepresented in a dental setting. I want to set that example and be a safe space for marginalized patients and practitioners.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Shahzina “Michelle” Ali, and I’m a recent graduate from Emory University where I completed my master’s in Public Health. Beyond my academic background, I love to spend my free time with my nephews and nieces, practicing yoga, and volunteering in youth development projects at my mosque.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a former cleft palate patient, I spent a great deal of my childhood in the dental office dealing with the many issues it left behind. But from my first shadowing experience, the idea of using your own hands to heal someone was enthralling, and I knew the dental operatory is where I wanted to be.

Hometown:
Layton, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Weber State University –Zoology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My wife and I love to spend our time going on little adventures, exploring the city with our dog, Honey. We find joy in serving in our local church by teaching youth. I play the ukulele, work out, and play disc golf when I am not busy. My family, faith, and learning dentistry bring me happiness.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I live for that moment when you connect with a patient and help them overcome a fear, doubt, or self-image problem. This daily experience fuels me to want to be the best practitioner and community leader I can be. It really is about those who we serve and helping improve their lives.

Hometown:
Lewes, Delaware

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Lynchburg–B.S. in Biomedical Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up on the beaches of Delaware, but have lived in Virginia for the past 6 years. I have 3 siblings, which have always kept me busy growing up and cultivated my love for sports. I played soccer in college, where I met life-long friends and my amazing girlfriend. I enjoy golfing and traveling.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I become passionate about dentistry during my childhood as my grandfather was a dentist and showed me what a great man is. I like fixing problems, serving my community, and enacting good change. Dentistry has allowed me to cultivate these skills through meticulous and systematic oral care.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of South Carolina–Environmental Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a hard-working and fun-loving 26-year-old from Fairfax, Virginia. My favorite thing to do is enjoy live music with friends. At home, I enjoy crocheting, listening to vinyl, and birdwatching. I head down to Virginia Beach to spend time with my 1 and 3-year-old nieces every chance I get.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry because it combines artistry, science, and service. As a dentist, I will get to use my creativity and hand skills in creating and implementing treatment plans that will improve patients’ health and function while transforming patients’ appearance and confidence.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm from Vienna, Virginia. I graduated with a BA in English Literature from UVA. In my free time I enjoy volunteering, exercising, baking, reading, and traveling. I'm excited to delve further into the world of dentistry and advocate for a better future for patients and healthcare workers alike.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry is marked by the ability to truly engage with patients. In my experience, a dentist can help someone build confidence and transform their outlook on the value of a smile. As a field, dentistry is a beautiful combination of art and science, appealing to my greatest interests.

Hometown:
Gainesville, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences and Criminology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My boyfriend and I have been together since 2017. We both were raised in Virginia and met while at Virginia Tech studying entomology. We have two rescue cats, a leopard gecko, and many happy houseplants! Outside of dentistry, I enjoy drinking tea, exercising, and helping run the family food truck!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up in the underserved areas of Flint, Michigan and rural Virginia. These communities outlined to me the need for dental care and its impact on people’s lives. The most important thing to me is helping people to live long, healthy lives, and dentistry is the perfect way for me to aid in this.

Hometown:
Gaithersburg, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
Clemson University–Finance

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
The circus is my family business, but in college I discovered a passion for dentistry. I enjoy doing anything outdoors, playing guitar, and spending time with family and Sadie, my dog. For the past year I have been a pediatric dental assistant and found a love for working with children.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Most people consider poor oral health as a standalone issue. In actuality, oral health can be the hidden cause behind ADHD, breast feeding issues, or insomnia. Nothing is more fulfilling than improving lives through helping patient’s realize the connection between the mouth and rest of their body.

Hometown:
Huntingtown, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–General Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Calvert County, Maryland, which is a very rural part of the state. I grew up on a small farm, so a major part of my childhood was spending time with my goats, chickens, and ducks. During my free time, I play video games, watch anime, and take my Australian Shepherd on hikes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Getting braces fixed my severe insecurity of smiling, and sparked my initial interest in dentistry. Volunteering on a dental brigade in Honduras allowed me to help others obtain that same feeling of confidence, and made me realize that I want to continue doing so in my future as a dentist.

Hometown:
Murray, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Microbiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I've been married for almost three years now to my amazing wife. I love spending time with her, spending time in the outdoors, playing disc golf, watching and playing just about any sport and I love just helping other people. I love being busy and always need something to do.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a fourth generation dentist, it is something I have always been around, but never pressured to join. The more I learn, the greater my interest becomes and I really have not found an aspect of dentistry that I don't like, guiding me to want to do general dentistry.

Hometown:
Lewes, Delaware

Undergraduate school/degree:
Emory University–Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology B.S.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a born and raised Puerto Rican living in Delaware after Hurricane Maria hit the island in 2017. I attended Emory University and majored in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology. My hobbies include dancing, playing tennis, medical interpreting for LEP patients, and spending time with friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Getting to know diverse individuals and treating their health in the most creative way possible is one of the things that I look forward to the most. A blend of art and science, dentistry can change people’s lives. It employs a wide range of technology that can transform the world of science.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I graduated from the VCU Dental Hygiene program in 2021 and have been a practicing clinician for the last year. I love to spend time exploring the outdoors with my golden retriever Finnegan, training him to be a service dog for hospital patients, and attending dental mission and volunteer projects.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because of the interactions I am able to have in the lives of my patients. I strive to be a provider who breaks barriers of dental fear and anxiety in our community. It is important to be compassionate and recognize that there is more to a patient than their teeth.

Hometown:
Blacksburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Blake Carroll. I am from Blacksburg, Virginia and I have lived in Virginia my whole life. I am a single woman with a dog, Remy. On my lazy days I enjoy sitting with a book and a cup of coffee. In my free time I also enjoy painting, hand-lettering, working out, and going on walks.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is more than oral healthcare; it is important for systemic health and quality of life. Teeth are an insecurity for many people, and dentistry is a place where you get to help someone go from hiding their smile to showing it off. I am excited to help reshape people's self-confidence.

Hometown:
Chantilly, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love live music, camping, and skiing. I have a big family with whom I love to spend time. Professionally, I took a gap year before dental school while I worked as a dental assistant in private practice. I would like to enter private practice after I graduate and eventually own my own practice.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love the blend of art and science. Building a healthy patient is a rewarding experience that I have fallen in love with over the last few years. I also enjoy getting to know my patients on a personal level. Creating relationships with my patients is the best part of my day.

Hometown:
North Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Hampden-Sydney College–2022

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in southwest Virginia and moved to Richmond with my mother in 2019. I attended Hampden-Sydney College and played 4 years of varsity soccer. In my free-time, I enjoy singing, playing guitar, building structures with my hands, and running. I also love spending time with my family and 3 dogs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love close and personal interactions with people and building a personal relationship with them. Also, I have always loved working with my hands and knowing that I can combine these two passions to make a significant impact on someone's life inspires me to provide the best dental care possible.

Hometown:
Powhatan, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm 26 years old. I have the best support system which includes my beloved parents, sweet siblings, and my amazing husband. Powhatan county is where I call home. It's where I spend most of my time cooking traditional Lebanese and Peruvian food, gardening, and playing with my German Shepherd, Sambo.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have always been intrigued by the artistry of dentistry. Working with patients not only intensified this interest in art but also solidified my calling to help others to alleviate them from pain and allow for immediate results. To be able to not only treat patients but educate them is rewarding.

Hometown:
Montclair, New Jersey

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I run a small business designing friendship bracelets using knots to make concise patterns. My current craft project is embroidering Appa from Avatar on a t-shirt. Activities I enjoy are hiking, weight lifting, and playing with my cat Missy. Musically, I learn to play new songs on the ukulele.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry demonstrates just how much a more confident smile can lift one's self-esteem and perspective. I have witnessed many patients transform once their rotten teeth have been repaired. Dentistry is a wonderful tool that can be life-altering and affirming for any patient in need.

Hometown:
McLean, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I've lived in Virginia all my life and I'm proud of my Lebanese heritage! I am currently helping to prepare my younger brother for university. My brother and I are avid soccer players, playing whenever we get the chance. What I value most is making meaningful and authentic friendships.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry stems from when I became my father’s first Invisalign patient. His efforts replaced the shame I carried from my smile with a new sense of confidence. As a result, I have made it my mission to positively impact the lives of my future patients, just as my father did with me.

Hometown:
Pensacola, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of California, Los Angeles–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Being the oldest child in an immigrant family has given me the title of interpreter, teacher, babysitter, accountant, and more. Being the cultural bridge has helped me find a passion for fusion cooking, painting, outrigger canoeing and cultural dance.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up in rural Taiwan, my dad never learned to care for his teeth. He thought getting extractions and dentures would fix all his dental issues. Watching his pain inspired me to pursue dentistry, so I could provide quality dental work and advice to those with limited access and education.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am always in search of new adventure and information. You can find me kayaking, hiking, or cooking up a new dish I heard about from my girlfriend. I value strong relationships and actively build up my peers. I was born in India, moved to Canada, then to the US but I feel most at home in Richmond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My learned life lesson is, health is irreplaceable. Objects can be replaced but you only get one ticket at life. My dad was a dentist and suffered a debilitating stroke. He inspires me to be in healthcare, to change someone's life, and to educate that oral health does impact overall health.

Hometown:
Springville, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Microbiology and Business

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have coached High School and College soccer as a volunteer while also leading a Refugee service program for the past few years. My wife and I love to travel so we can experience and appreciate other cultures. We have visited Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Greece, and we hope to travel more in the future.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about being the difference for others. The first thing anyone notices about a person is their smile. Additionally, some of the most inconsolable pains in life are directly or indirectly caused by the mouth. Dentistry is the conduit for better living, and I want to be the catalyst.

Hometown:
Powhatan, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 20 years old and come from Romanian heritage. I have a strong passion for calligraphy. During school, I have started my own calligraphy business and enjoy pursuing it during my free time. I enjoy to travel spontaneously and most importantly spend quality time with friends and family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about promoting oral health to undeserved populations. This hits home for me, as after graduation I plan to travel and do missions/volunteer work in Romania where my mother and her family are from. They have a dire need for better health care and I am passionate about serving there.

Hometown:
HAMPTON, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The College of William & Mary–B.S. in kinesiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Norfolk, VA. I'm a libra, and I love cats! Before dental school, I was a dental assistant for a few years. In my free time I enjoy camping, going to the beach, playing guitar, sports, and trivia.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've always loved going to the dentist, but it wasn't until I went on a service trip to Alaska that I realized how many people lack something that was routine for me. It was then that I decided to devote a career to bringing dental care to those who can't afford or access it.

Hometown:
Land O Lakes, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of South Florida–Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm the youngest of 6 siblings, and am lucky to share a mix of culture with my Chinese mom & Syrian dad. Growing up, athletics was a big part of my life - I enjoy all sports, especially hiking, soccer, and swimming! I love visiting my family and hanging out with my fat white cat when school is slow.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a complex career of life time learning, and no two cases are ever the same. The challenge it presents is exhilarating and success always bears the sweetest reward. I never had the dental knowledge I do now, and I love sharing it with my patients to improve their health and confidence.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–General Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first generation Iranian American UMD alumni and have a cockapoo named Ginger. I was a resident assistant during college, tutored ESOL students every week, and was a 5th grade volunteer basketball head coach. I also restore sneakers as a hobby and bring dirty shoes back to life for customers.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Working with my hands and service opportunities are why I love dentistry. I like to use my hands to build Legos and do wax-ups in my mom's dental lab. As a Mission of Mercy volunteer, I saw dentists help alleviate patient's oral pathology in underserved population which I also want to do.

Hometown:
Cary, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
UNC Chapel Hill–B.S. in Biomedical Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
As a rising D2, I am excited to master new hand skills in lab and look forward to assisting more in clinic while also interacting with patients. In my free time I escape into thriller books and like to paint scenery. My favorite outdoor activities are paddle boarding and finding waterfalls on hikes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Seeing how dentistry is nothing short of a form of highly skilled artistry drew me to the field at first, but I knew it would soon become my passion once I witnessed how it could transform the lives of patients through the vulnerable yet trusting relationships formed with their dentists.

Hometown:
Lexington, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Military Institute–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
-Eagle Scout -Virginia Military Institute Graduate -United States Army Intelligence Officer -Served in Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan -Single, but I have a cat named Princess -Digital designer

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
All my life I have felt a strong sense of duty. I served my country as a Soldier and now it is time to serve my community as a dentist. Many aspects of dentistry are very appealing to me, such as helping those in need, working as a team, and utilizing my artistic abilities to treat patients.

Hometown:
Davison, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Davidson College–BA English

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My fondest memories have been made with friends and family over good food, even better conversation, and my labradoodle trying to get a hold of the table scraps. I, myself, enjoy whipping up recipes in the kitchen and sharing the results. To balance it out, I exercise my mind and body at the gym.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry combines art, science and skill to solve problems that garner life-changing results. I strive to improve patient confidence with restorative dentistry and advance clinical treatment through research. I will apply and build upon my prior experience in biotechnology and ultramicrotomy labs.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Duke University–B.S. in Evolutionary Anthroplogy

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m a first generation Ethiopian American raised in Virginia. I currently reside in Richmond and work for a digital dentistry technology company based out of Northern VA. In my free time when I’m not spending moments with loved ones or my dog, I love working with new tech and digital designing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Not only does it change people’s quality of life and overall health for the better, it also changes the way patients view and interact with the world around them. I love how dentistry is the cross section of art, design, and engineering, and that it allows me to problem solve in such meaningful ways

Hometown:
Burke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Pittsburgh–B.S. in natural sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 22-year-old African American woman with a plethora of hobbies from skateboarding to crocheting. I love creating new things with my hands, being active, and learning! I strive to incorporate my practice with both patterns and techniques into perfecting the art of dentistry.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry stems from the personal connections I can make with future patients. These connections will lead me to my goals of improving healthcare equity and access to dentistry for all people. My passion stems from the service and activism I have accomplished throughout adulthood.

Hometown:
Sanford, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill–Biology (BS) and History (BA), Chemistry Minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Andrew Faulk and I am from Sanford, North Carolina. My hobbies include cooking most of my meals, staying active as much as possible while in school, going to trivia, and discovering new places to eat in Richmond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because for as long as I can remember I have wanted to be someone other people can rely on, especially in times of need. If someone is suffering from pain, I want to be that person to help them. Additionally, I enjoy the collaborative nature of Dentistry.

Hometown:
Moseley, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelors of Science in Health Preparation and Professional Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a husband and father to three children ages twelve, five and eight months. I enjoy spending time with my family, improving my mental and physical health through weight lifting and coaching youth football. The ability to coach allows me to improve the lives of young men through mentorship.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows providers to improve patient health both mentally and physically. Dental providers can alleviate pain and improve oral health while simultaneously improving the self esteem of their patients. This ability, along with the dexterity required to practice is why dentistry is my passion.

Hometown:
RESTON, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Bachelor of Arts - Biology, Minor - Anthropology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Fairfax County, Virginia, and I graduated with distinction from the University of Virginia in 2020, majoring in biology and minoring in anthropology. In my free time, I enjoy hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains, going on road trips, and exploring the Richmond restaurant scene.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a career in which I can provide essential and meaningful care to patients; I can employ the work of my hands to empower others, and, through honest and compassionate interactions, I can develop strong patients relationships. These attributes of the field inspire my passion for dentistry

Hometown:
Homestead, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Florida International University –Bachelor's in Biological Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm from Venezuela, and came to the U.S when I was 17 (9 years ago). I became a dental assistant as a detour of my studies, since at the time it was much more expensive to enroll in college. I like to try out new things with my husband and family. I enjoy sharing and giving back to others.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to get to know someone by working on a side of them that is very personal, their smile. Our teeth can define many other characteristics of our world like personality, health, emotions, self-esteem etc. It changed a part of me and I would love to see that change in others.

Hometown:
Kannapolis, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
East Carolina University–Biology Major, Business Administration Minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Currently a D4 trying to finish the gauntlet of dental school which has been my dream since third grade. I recently engaged my high school sweetheart of 8 years, and we look forward to a large family with plenty of pets. In my free time I enjoy a round of golf or learning about ancient history.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to encourage healthy lifestyles, build everlasting relationships covering all backgrounds, provide stability to support a beautiful family and overall inspire philanthropy and the future of my community. My passion of dentistry allows me to live life to the fullest.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Vassar College–B.A.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I played tennis in college and have been coaching high school tennis since graduating . I enjoy running and weightlifting, so I also began working at an Orangetheory Fitness. I've always been passionate about community service as well and volunteered at a local free clinic in Virginia Beach.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry not only improves the quality of life of patients but also improves their self-esteem. There is also a greater continuity of care, allowing stronger doctor-patient relationships to form. Most importantly, dentistry is continuously evolving so I will be learning for life in this profession.

Hometown:
Haymarket, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Those closest to me would describe me as driven and passionate. Each day I invest my time in things that bring me joy, such as advocating for reproductive rights by volunteering at Planned Parenthood and exploring different cultures through through my passion for cooking and learning new recipes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My interest in dentistry stems from my past experience with braces, implants, veneers, and sinus lifts. Since achieving my favorite smile, I’ve immersed myself in the field and found a passion for creating long-term relationships with and boosting the confidence of patients, especially children.

Hometown:
Yorktown, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Bachelors of Arts in Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Aside from dentistry, my interests include: spending time with friends and family, listening to music, reading, playing and watching sports, and fashion. While my studies will be my priority, I hope to continue to pursue my interests and discover new hobbies in the city of Richmond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up I always wanted to enter the healthcare field because my mother is a physician. As a hands-on type of person, dentistry is the perfect field for me to combine my mother’s love of caring for patients while also getting to work in a tactile manner.

Hometown:
Forest, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Utah State University–Human Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been married for a little over a year and do not have kids yet, but we are planning on having our first in two years or so. I love almost any activity outdoors; hiking, swimming, and visiting historical sites in the area. Museums have become a favorite of mine since moving to Richmond!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love the marriage of so many different skills that are required to be a great dentist: medicine, art, business, hand-eye coordination, service, finance, interpersonal skills, and many others. Growing up my family always emphasized service and I am excited to provide service to my community.

Hometown:
GLEN ALLEN, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Biochemistry Concentration

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Voted for the most contagious laugh by my peers, I am an easy-going individual who desires to help others. I have two beautiful daughters who inspire me to be a better version of myself. I am alerted by our beagle to prepare me for the unpredictable and get my exercise running after our pet bunny.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to be the person that I was intended to be by my Creator. My passion is to provide dental services to those persons in need in the same manner that oral surgeons took care of me when I fractured my jawbone as a child. Dentistry brings me joy.

Hometown:
Mendham, New Jersey

Undergraduate school/degree:
College of William & Mary–Bachelor of Science in Biology (BS)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My partner, Alex, will be finishing the VCU Accelerated BSN Program in December. We will be living in Richmond with our dog, Stella, for the foreseeable future, with plans to get married within the next 2-3 years. I enjoy both physical and digital artwork, revamping antique furniture, and cooking!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the perfect marriage between my artistic passions and love for science. I maintain a strong desire to serve underserved populations in Virginia. By building relationships with patients, their families, and the community, I intend to uplift Richmond through the smiles of its people.

Hometown:
Hillsborough, New Jersey

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm the oldest of three siblings and have a dog named Luna. I love to paint and am always ready to do something outside, like hiking, kayaking, or snowboarding. Another fun fact is that I started an earring collection during the pandemic. My favorites are hand earrings I wear for every practical.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up fascinated with art and science! Dentistry combined those interests and would allow me to use my hands to impact someone's life. While shadowing, I was always amazed at how a dentist could provide immediate care and have a patient leave feeling better than they had when they arrived.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
North Carolina A&T State University–Biology, Pre-Med

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. I have many hobbies including thrift shopping, baking and decorating cakes, going to museums and aquariums, painting, and spending time with my loved ones. I have a deep love for science, which led me to biology and several research-centered opportunities

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry stems directly from the fear I had of the dentist as a child. My personal dentist changed my entire perspective on dentistry and because of that, I have an immense passion to alleviate the same fear of the dentist as I once had in my future patients.

Hometown:
Greensboro, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
UNC Chapel Hill–Neuroscience B.S.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Coming from a single mother household in Greensboro, NC, I have acquired several hobbies that I am interested in. Painting is one hobby that allows me to release my emotions and creative side into my work. I also like to watch and play sports, such as soccer and basketball, in order to stay active.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry first stemmed from my own experiences as a patient. The gratitude I felt after my procedures made me want to do the same for others. As I gained more knowledge about the field, I realized the huge impact our oral health has on our lives.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University –B.S. Cellular, Molecular, and Physiological Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m a native of Southwestern VA and was surrounded by educators growing up, so it was a no-brainer for me to spend 5 years teaching science at a rural high school. In my free time you can find me at the gym, circling the block meditating on a walk, out dancing, or trying a new coffee shop.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the perfect intersection of education and welcoming in the vulnerable. Historically, the dentist’s chair is viewed as a scary space. Creating an environment for folks to be welcomed, be made comfortable, be educated and then be empowered to make positive change is one of my passions.

Hometown:
Centreville, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in South Korea and became a U.S. Citizen in 2021. I can speak Korean and English fluently and am able to translate for both. Lately, I have been interested in digital art. I am currently learning independently on how to draw digitally including the use of layers, shading, and proportions.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion grew along with my shadowing experiences. I especially loved seeing the artistic aspect of dentistry as my interest in creation was great since young. Coming from a family that believed dentistry was not a necessity, shadowing helped open my eyes to the importance of managing oral health.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biomedical Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Outside of my love for dentistry, my hobbies include hiking the Blue Ridge Mountains of VA and reading psychological thrillers. I love playing tennis and golf and am always looking to sharpen my game. I am an avid fan of all sports teams based out of Philly and enjoy catching games with friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry is centered around patients and serving them with optimal care. I aim to bring my engineering skillset to improve treatments and ensure accessibility and affordability. I will use my dental education to promote positive change in the health of the communities I work in.

Hometown:
Alpharetta, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Duke University–Linguistics, B.A.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love seeking out obscure niches in all my hobbies. On stage, I perform a folk dance from Punjab; on the easel, I experiment with uncommon media and techniques. I also enjoy engaging in Richmond by keeping active in local tennis leagues or exploring the city with my family and partner of 4 years.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
In my culture, patients rarely visit the dentist without an emergency. While my initial passion for dentistry was inspired by my artistry and patient experience, it is now driven by a desire to demystify dentistry and inspire patients of under-resourced communities to prioritize their oral health.

Hometown:
Chantilly, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Bachelor of Science With a concentration in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 21 year old student and have recently graduated from VCU with my bachelors in biology. My family and I immigrated from Iran when I was 14 years old, so my culture is very important to me and I enjoy attending cultural events and joining cultural. organizations to learn about other cultures.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I see it as a way to serve those in need while also enjoying the things I enjoy things I am passionate about including art and science. I understand that dental care is not accessible to many and hope to be able to provide those who don't have access to it.

Hometown:
Aldie, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 23 years old and though I have lived in NOVA my entire life with my parents and three brothers, I am originally from Pakistan. I currently have experience working as a pediatric dental assistant and a pharmacy technician. I also enjoy exploring new places with friends and listening to music.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
From my personal experience at age 12, I was introduced to a concept often overlooked: oral systemic health. As I started to directly work with the diverse underserved population, I also learned the importance of preventive care and being able to efficiently treat in a culturally competent manner.

Hometown:
Yorktown, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University–Major- Clinical Neuroscience / Minor- Violin Performance

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Since immigrating to the US from South Korea, my family has lived in rural Southeastern VA. During my free time, I love helping out at my parents' diner and playing the violin, guitar, and piano. My most recent hobby is filming and editing music videos to document my musical journey on youtube.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being a dentist allows me to be a lifelong learner, a teacher that educates patients on oral health, a friend that comforts the patients in the chair, and an artist that has great hand skills. Dentistry is such a rewarding career and I am constantly finding new aspects to love about this profession.

Hometown:
Manassas, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Eric and I am a 23-year-old Korean-American student who has been working as an endodontic assistant since graduating college. I am thrilled to take the next step in my dental education this fall. When I’m not thinking about teeth, you can find me playing the violin or hiking with my dog.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentists have the potential to make a huge difference in individuals’ quality of life and self-confidence. Knowing this, I am passionate about continuously improving my skills and holding myself to a high standard so that I can provide the best care possible.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
CUNY Queens College–Bachelors of Arts

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 30 years old and have been married to my best friend for the last 6 years. We have a beautiful daughter and are expecting another daughter in a month. I am originally from NY but moved to Richmond 5 years ago for my wife's job. I love playing sports, spending time with family and brewing beer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to impact people's lives in a very important way. There are too many people close to me who are self-conscious about their smile. Dentistry will allow me to help them overcome these feelings and help them, and others, improve their everyday lives.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor–Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising D2, originally from Seattle, Washington, and a recent of resident Virginia as of 2020. My passions outside dentistry were explored during undergraduate, such as cognitive psychology research and mental health awareness, two concepts which I hope to include in my future career.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me, dentistry meets all my career interests: studying medical sciences, working with novel technology, creating a positive aesthetic in my work and my work environment, and solving problems effectively. While I still have much to learn about individual specialties, I am excited to learn more.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a Richmond, VA native who enjoys spending time with family, staying active, and eating good food. I also love to keep up with the latest trends in interior design. I am excited to transition into clinic this year to experience the role of being a student provider.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is truly a super career. It incorporates science, art, problem-solving, and people skills to deliver something that impacts the overall well-being of a person. Dentistry will allow me to educate, advocate for, and serve my community while simultaneously building long-term relationships.

Hometown:
Rehoboth, Massachusetts

Undergraduate school/degree:
Providence College–B.S. in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an incoming VCU D1 student coming from Massachusetts, but I have lived in many states, primarily Arizona and Kansas. I work at a plant nursery over the summers and enjoy spending my time outdoors. I also enjoy oil painting, ceramics, and other artistic activities.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry brings together the health and cosmetic needs of everyday people. Dentists interact with new people every day, get to know their patients, and support them by providing individualized healthcare. Dentists help their patients stay healthy and feel confident in themselves.

Hometown:
MANASSAS, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising D2 student from Manassas, Virginia. I am the middle child between two brothers and we have five dogs! I played softball in college, I am rather competitive, and I hope to join a co-ed intramural team at VCU. I like to jump rope, try new foods, and spend time with my family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry for many reasons. I prize the opportunity to help people feel good about themselves, engage with people of different backgrounds, and build relationships. Dentistry is intriguing and challenging, and there is great satisfaction in helping a patient with their health.

Hometown:
Alhambra, California

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Richmond–Bachelors of Arts - Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Elliott Lee. I am from Alhambra, California. Though the majority of my free time goes into my studies as a dental student, when I have free time I enjoy cooking, golfing, and calling my loved ones back home.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I had my first exposure to dentistry from my uncle, who is working in a private practice. By working under him, my passion for dentistry sparked. I found that dentistry was a career that both interested me and challenged me, because of the patient interactions and the operative aspect of dentistry.

Hometown:
Pinehurst, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Davidson College–Bachelors of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Shann Leonard and I'm 24 years old. I love getting outdoors and hiking trails; golfing is a great way to challenge my skills personally while also playing with friends. Assembling, repairing, and modifying small electronics is something I find not only interesting but rewarding too!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I’ve always loved biology and the study of human anatomy, and wanted to go into medicine. After I started shadowing, I found myself desiring the relationship dentists cultivate with their patients. I also love working with my hands and meeting new people - so dentistry has been for me ever since.

Hometown:
Falls Church, VA, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology and Spanish

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in a multicultural household in Virginia with my little sister and my parents who immigrated from Spain and Taiwan. There’s nothing more I enjoy than seeking out new adventures with my family. In my free time I like to create art in various forms from simple drawings to graphic designs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentists hold the unique power of impacting their patients by alleviating pain and transforming self-perception. My dentist not only fixed the gap between my front teeth, but he gave me the confidence to smile. Everyone deserves to have a confident smile, and I want to be able to create that change.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Newport News, Virginia and I now live in Richmond with both my twin sister and older sister. I love all sports and did club swim in undergrad. I love to be in nature, especially going to the beach and hiking. I love to dance, read mythological fiction novels, paint, and play the viola.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry combines everything I could want in a profession: working with my hands to create, interacting with people, and giving back to an underserved community. Working in an underserved community to try to help eliminate the disparity in oral health is very important to me.

Hometown:
Springfield, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a Thai-American who enjoys playing the guitar and folding origami. I love to cook foods from various cultures and experiment with different flavors. I recently got into fitness and started incorporating it into my daily routine. My dog's name is Keiko, who I rescued from a local shelter in RVA.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry started when I was in elementary school. I will never forget the feeling of sitting in the dental chair and being completely enthralled by watching the dentist provide healthcare through her artistic abilities. That moment solidified my love for the profession.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Vienna, Virginia with my parents and younger brother. I enjoy dancing traditional Chinese dance and ballet. I also like practicing meditation and learning about mindfulness and wellness.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I had many dental issues growing up like caries, ortho, and GERD and it was thanks to modern dentistry that I smile and be healthier. I really enjoy passing on my education to patients and seeing their oral health improve as well.

Hometown:
Orlando, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Miami–BS Psychology, Minors: French & Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Florida and my ethnicity is Indian. I love to stay active in my free time as well as relish in my hobbies such as singing, dancing, and playing the piano. I am very family oriented and love spending time with my family. When I graduate dental school, I plan to adopt a puppy!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry as it is the perfect union of science & logical reasoning with creativity & art. I love using my hands and my knowledge simultaneously to perform my best work, knowing that once I get to clinic and beyond, I will contribute to my future patients' health and happiness.

Hometown:
Clearwater, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Florida–Bachelors of Science in Nutritional Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in St. Pete, FL with my parents and two younger siblings. We have two dogs. I love the beach, swimming, sports, and traveling. Although I am vegetarian, I like to cook and create new recipes. Before dental school, I taught infants, toddlers, and individuals with special needs how to swim!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows for creativity. Dentists are doctors, leaders, engineers, scientists, and artists. Dentistry also allows for the opportunity to better communities. After graduation I plan to serve at a federally qualified health center and work to reduce inequalities in oral healthcare.

Hometown:
wantagh, New York

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Scranton–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Long Island, New York and the youngest child of a large family. I pride myself on living a balanced life full of exercise, meditation and continually trying new activities.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is an art that I have learned to love through the ups and downs of dental school. I have no relatives in the profession so the learning curve was steep, but incredibly rewarding. Its a great privilege to positively impact so many peoples lives.

Hometown:
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Health Science Minor Pre-Dentistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the youngest of four children and the only one going into healthcare. I enjoy adventuring to new places and exploring food and coffee shops, especially a good latte. During the spring and summer, I like to garden and plant vegetables. This winter I will be trying indoor gardening.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion stems from watching my mother struggle with her oral hygiene. Her first visit to a dentist was at the age of 15. She instilled the importance of taking care of my teeth and regular visits. As a dentist, I hope to educate people about the importance of dentistry.

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Duke University –Bachelor of Science in Evolutionary Anthropology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia and love living in, and exploring, this city and being close to my family. I am an avid reader and tennis player, and am happiest when spending time with loved ones. Recently I have discovered a new passion for cooking and trying out new recipes!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me, dentistry is one of the most meaningful ways to make an impact and to care for those in need. I am passionate and excited to become a clinician who gets to know my patients on a personal level and who works to improve the oral health, overall health, and confidence of my patients each day.

Hometown:
Martinsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Dual degree: BS in Biology and Economics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 24 years old with a steady girlfriend and loving life. I enjoy all things outdoors such as kayaking, wakeboarding, surfing, and hiking. I love all music and frequently attend music festivals. I've wanted to be a dentist since 6th grade and every day I love it more.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about interacting with people everyday and hopefully changing their lives for the better. A smile is the first place peoples eyes gaze and if I can improve that, ultimately giving that person more confidence and a better quality of life, then I will lead a fulfilling career and life.

Hometown:
Falls Church, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Major: Public Health, Minor: Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Northern Virginia and was raised in a Persian household. I love learning about different cultures and trying good food wherever I am. In my free time I enjoy playing soccer, going to my favorite food spots, exploring nature, and learning more about the world around me.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To bring confidence to patient's smiles through research and education are some of many features in dentistry I always admired. The field enables me to make a positive impact on patients while utilizing my manual dexterity and creating solutions to problems that patients may face.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the only child in my family and have been living in Virginia since 2017. In my free time, I like to work out, go on hiking and mountain biking trails, or just relax and read a book next to the river. Other than that I like to travel and learn about cultures and languages around the world.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for art, science, healthcare, and service drew me towards dentistry. I want to utilize my skills and creativity to improve the health of my patients. In addition, dentistry is full of innovations and I want to contribute to it through research, lifelong learning, and educating others.

Hometown:
Manakin Sabot, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology and Spanish

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an incoming D2 student, a Richmond native, and a recent graduate of UVA. I love to swim, read, make jewelry and spend time connecting with others. I am especially excited that I will be an ADEA ADCFP teaching fellow this year at VCU, as I hope to rejoin academia after some time in practice.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The dental profession is the perfect blend of problem solving, artistry, intellect, precision, and personal interaction, which align with many of my strengths and goals. Dentistry provides me with a greater purpose and a vessel through which to humbly improve the lives of others every day.

Hometown:
Summerfield, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Massachusetts Amherst–Psychology / Neuroscience

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a single 28-year old guy from North Carolina. So far my experience here has been amazing! Some of my hobbies include tennis, golf, swimming and waterpolo.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
It allows me to be in a field that is always growing. It is a field that allows you to learn and get better at being a provider with each year of practice. There is always room of learning and continuing education.

Hometown:
West Jordan, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Utah–Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am happily married to a loving wife with a two year old daughter who is my greatest joy in life. We have been trying to have another child for a year now but due to infertility complications we have not been successful yet. Our family loves hiking, swimming, and spending time together!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have been very fortunate in my life to have outstanding dentists who have served my financially challenged family and I hope to serve families like mine as I pursue a career in dental public health in rural Virginia. I know how much it means to be the recipient of oral health during trying times.

Hometown:
Cary, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
North Carolina State University –Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Raleigh, North Carolina. I chose to attend VCU SOD because I truly believe that I needed to adventure outside of the Research Triangle Park and find my own path. I love to workout because it helps with my ADHD. I also practice the piano regularly for stress relief.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I’ve wanted to be a dentist since I was a little kid. Seeing my dad, who is a dentist, piqued my interest, but I made the journey to become a dentist my own. Working in prosthodontics and seeing patients’ quality of life increase changed my life. It solidified my desire to be a part of this field.

Hometown:
Charlotte, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of North Carolina at Charlotte–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. I graduated with a B.S. in Biology from UNC Charlotte and a M.S. in Physiology from NC State. In my free time I enjoy exercising, cooking, trying new restaurants, and spending time with my family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to combine my love for science, art, and service. I enjoy the instant gratification in making a difference in someone’s life as a part of my daily career. The variety of dental cases, materials, and patients make dentistry unpredictable and exciting.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Virginia. My favorite hobby is weightlifting, as it allows me to continuously challenge myself both physically and mentally. Outside of the gym I also enjoy painting, reading, and spending time with my family. I am also a fish mom to two beta fish named Leo and Bubbles.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
On a mission trip I saw how oral health is an often overlooked yet vital component in one's well-being. I saw how education on oral hygiene was just as impactful as the procedure itself. Through this, I found my passion for educating others on the importance of their oral health and proper hygiene.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences and Clinical Neuroscience (dual-degree)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
There are many things that encompass the essence of me. From a lighthearted obsession over corny chemistry jokes, to my love and devotion for family and friends, leading up to my passion for service and learning. To living every day following the quote "a day without laughter is a day wasted."

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being able to make lasting connections with patients and colleagues is one of the many reasons I am passionate about dentistry. Volunteering in under-served areas made me whiteness firsthand how much it truly changes patients' lives by providing them access to healthcare that they desperately need.

Hometown:
Round Hill, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S. in Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
While I build gaming computers and collect retro gaming consoles, I also enjoy playing classical piano solos and being a bassist in an alternative rock band. I previously taught online block coding classes and now have plans to learn a new coding language with the goal of creating music through code

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was always self conscious about my smile, and dentistry has allowed me to go from the shyest kid in class into a someone who is not afraid to be themself. I look forward to give others opportunities to live confidently and improve their quality of lite through patient centered care and education

Hometown:
Evans, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Youngki Noh. I was born in Seoul, South Korea. I have served military for 7 years as a dental lab technician/assistant. I am married, and live with a beautiful wife and a 8-year-old son. I love outdoor activities such as a hiking, camping and a snowboarding on winter times.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My philosophy in life is to share what I have with others and to use my skills to give back to the community. The reason I joined the military and try to become a dentist is to give back what I have received and provide medical services to people who have difficulty receiving medical benefits.

Hometown:
South Riding , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –Bachelor's degree

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I come from a family of 5, including my lovely puppy, Lucky. I was born and raised in South Korea throughout elementary school and also lived in Thailand for 2 years before we moved to the U.S. I love spending my leisure time hanging out with my friends or working on things like embroidery.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me, dentistry is a means of creating positive impressions, building trusting relationships and making a lasting difference in the lives of others while continuously striving to be a lifelong learner. Many people still have limited access to care, and I hope to serve those in need in the future

Hometown:
Chesapeake, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Biology BS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I will be a first-generation dental student this Fall 2022. My parents were unable to have time for their hobbies due to their hard immigrant life. Due to their hard work, I can enjoy all the hobbies (such as traveling, trying different foods, and drawing) I have, and I am truly grateful for this.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Good oral health not only keeps the mouth healthy, but also the overall body. Many people do not know the importance behind dentistry; therefore, my goal in the future is to spread more awareness to the underserved by directly serving and educating them.

Hometown:
Roanoke, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I live at home with my parents and younger brother. For half of the year, my grandparents from India live with us full time. I wish I could spend my free time with pets, but we do not have any because my family is terrified of any animals. Instead, I spend my free time cooking and embroidering.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have learned so much through my own experience as a dental assistant for a dentist who works with Veteran Affairs about the health disparities in dentistry. I have seen how much people are in need of dental care, and that is something I wish to contribute to and make an impact on people's lives.

Hometown:
Columbia, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland College Park–Neurobiology and Physiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first generation Indian American and first in my family to purse dentistry. I enjoy kayaking, hiking, and traveling. My most memorable trip is kayaking Lake Powell to Antelope Canyon two weeks ago. When I am not outdoors, you can find me completing puzzles, a hobby I have had my entire life.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When younger I had two ectopic maxillary canines that destroyed my self esteem. Dental work regained my bright bubbly personality and piqued my interest in the field. Time spent in both rural communities and private practice showed me dentistry perfectly combines service, science, and technology.

Hometown:
Castle Rock, Colorado

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Alabama at Birmingham–Bachelor of Science in Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I recently got engaged in June of 2021 and shortly after I was accepted to VCU School of Dentistry. I packed up my car and drove about forty hours after saying bye to Colorado, my fiance, and my puppy. We recently saved a kitten that adores her dog sister. I like to travel, hike, eat, and read.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I chose dentistry in fifth grade and honestly I don't know why. I did not get routine cleanings growing up, but I do remember begging my parents to take me to the orthodontist. After my experience with orthodontics and oral surgery, I knew I wanted to help change people's lives with dentistry.

Hometown:
Missouri City , Texas

Undergraduate school/degree:
Texas A&M Univeristy–B.S. Biology and B.S Genetics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in India and moved to the United States when I was in middle school. I have been a Texas resident for almost 12 years and attended Texas A&M University Go Aggies!! I am a very outdoorsy person love hiking, exploring new cities and foods. I have an adorable pug puppy named Levi.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My motivation to pursue dentistry come from my grandfather. He inspired me to become a better individual and give back to our community. I want to carry this inspiration as a dentist and help under developed communities in any way I can whether it’s through free clinics or organized dental events.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Professional Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a native Virginian who loves VCU. It all started when I was born – literally. My twin brother and I were born at MCV and raised in a family of six children just outside of Richmond. Growing up, I always enjoyed the outdoors, hanging out with friends, and, of course, going to the dentist.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Healthcare has always fascinated me, and when I was 13, dentistry became the focus of this fascination. The importance of such a small area on overall health, such as the connection between periodontal disease and heart disease, was very intriguing to me. Dentists save lives.

Hometown:
Roanoke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Cognitive Science- concentrations in Neuroscience and Linguistics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have always been infatuated with the arts. In my free time, I do Bharatnatyam (Indian dance), play the drums, paint, bake, and hike with my dog. I am currently working as a dental assistant which has helped me connect with my community while gaining skills to further my dental education.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry interlaces skills from art, science, and engineering into one all-encompassing career that has endless rewards. Dentistry has the power to make one feel secure and confident in their overall self-image, providing personal fulfillment in helping others throughout the course of their lives.

Hometown:
Cramerton , North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Elon University –BS Environmental Studies, Minor: Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from North Carolina. Two of my favorite hobbies include running and trying new cheeses. Previously I was scared to run a block, but I am so proud because I completed my first half amrathon this past fall. There endless cheeses to try, my current favorites being gruyere and brie.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Through my own experience in the dental chair, I learned how transformitve dentistry can be externally and internally. I vowed to use my empathic personaility to not only restore patient's smile but also assist in any confidence issues patients may have faced due to their nontraditional smile.

Hometown:
Catharpin, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia COmmonwealth University–B.S. in Biology, Minor in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I like to play guitar, ukulele, kalimba, and sing. I love the outdoors and being active, whether it be through hip hop dance, volleyball, or working out. I also love making crafts and baking. But nothing beats spending quality time with my friends whether it be getting groceries or travelling,

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I wanted to choose a career where I can best use my strengths to make a positive impact for others. Loving art, service, science, and technology, dentistry was a perfect fit. I love building lasting connections with patients and bettering the lives of others where I can, no matter how big or small,

Hometown:
North Easton, Massachusetts

Undergraduate school/degree:
Villanova University–Bachelors of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Massachusetts and I attended Villanova University. In my free time I love to run, workout with November Project, spend time with my large family and my friends, read, and explore the outdoors. I am a huge college sports fan and I will rarely miss watching a Villanova basketball game!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a dental professional, I am able to combine my interests in healthcare, science, and art while taking a hands on approach to restore the oral health of my patients. I am able to form genuine relationships with my patients by seeing them on a regular basis and I can serve the needs of my community

Hometown:
Riverside, California

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of California San Diego–B.S. in Human Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was raised in Riverside, California in a family of 5 and studied Human Biology at the University of California San Diego. I graduated in June 2021 and relocated to Virginia where I worked as a dental assistant for 8 months. In my free time, I like to bake, play tennis, dance and go on hikes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My life was transformed when my overlapping front teeth were restored into a beautiful smile. Therefore, I admire dentists for not only enhancing smiles but also confidence, all while building rapport. Volunteering, research, shadowing, and dental assisting solidified my passion for this career.

Hometown:
Arlington, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Business Management

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
The opportunity to travel and experience other cultures is something I value greatly. I lived in Guatemala for two years as a volunteer for my church and am now fluent in Spanish. I also love sports and music, and I play guitar in a band. I find the songwriting process to be difficult but rewarding.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a dentist, I will have a unique opportunity to improve the quality of peoples' lives. Every day will represent a chance to have a meaningfully positive impact on others through my work, and I am thrilled to have skills that will be useful to the communities of which I am a part.

Hometown:
Leesburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the oldest of three back at home in Leesburg Virginia, and a hard working determined dental student in Richmond. I love to stay active and Richmond allows me to live that out in a variety of ways. I love sports, organized dentistry, and most importantly bringing people together. Go Rams!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I believe dentistry is an amazing profession to have a true and genuine passion for. To bring the community and people together is what I love most about it. As I grow into becoming a successful dentist my goal is to form impact relationships and build a welcoming, and healthy environment.

Hometown:
Madison, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–BS - Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have recently gotten engaged to my high school sweetheart after being together since the 10th grade. We have two cats, both of which were adopted from local animal shelters. I grew up on my family's cattle farm, so I have always enjoyed being outside whether it be fishing or throwing baseball.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up watching my father practice general dentistry in my hometown. It always amazed me how many people were so appreciative of his service, often making a remark while we were simply grocery shopping. I also have great interest in the hands-on, detail-oriented aspect of dentistry.

Hometown:
Charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–B.A. in Biology with Minor in English

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm single with on children, with a cat I take care of. I've always been interested in reading and writing, specifically fantasy. When I'm not doing work or spending time with my friends and family, I can usually be found reading or working on the writing I hope to publish in the near future.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've always loved to make people laugh, whether it's making childish jokes on the playground or making my fraternity brothers laugh with my horribly unfunny standup. This, combined with my desire to help led me straight to dentistry, where I can help people be more comfortable with their laugh.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Northern Virginia Community College and Virginia Commonwealth University–B.S. in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I make time to appreciate art (seeing the Cassatt exhibit at VMFA next), read thought-provoking books (finishing “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” and “Moneyland”), run cross-country (completing another triathlon next), and travel to unique destinations (dreaming of visiting Antarctica one day).

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because of its lifelong impact on people. At the end of a workday at Pediatric Dental Care, I felt satisfied knowing I had made a potentially lasting difference for others, whether by comforting a tearful child or addressing the oral health misconceptions of a parent.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Biology with a business minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My partner and I have a beautiful 5 y/o girl husky. My hobbies include roller-skating, painting, cooking, and trying new food in Richmond. I enjoy traveling and exploring new cities. When life gets stressful, my escape is time outdoors with nature, however, the grad-perio clinic is a close second.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is my passion because it allows for creativity and improves peoples’ lives. After 10 years in clinics, I am still thrilled to be there and I'm still learning daily. I love hearing the patient’s stories and celebrating their wins. Dentistry offers great work-life balance & a career I love.

Hometown:
Chantilly, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland Baltimore County–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an avid adventurer and try to stay as active as possible. I tend to spend my free time playing tennis, hiking, running, or any other stimulating activity. I am not married, but plan on proposing to my best friend this year.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I look forward to winning my patient's trust through casual conversation, staying calm, and being confident. Very few people like going to the dentist, and that is something I want to change. I really believe we can change the profession by being more approachable and showing our human side.

Hometown:
Sandston, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University //// Virginia Commonwealth University–Cellular, Molecular, Physiological Biology //// Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm an "always smiling", "fun loving", single, 25 year old! I love hanging with my friends/family, eating good food & being outside! I've been a waitress for 6 years now which I consider a hobby as it gives me happiness. I was a DA for a year & loved it as I learned something new everyday!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is extremely unique & rewarding. Each patient is different & I love getting to know them on a personal level. Making the patients experience a priority as well as educating them, finding their motivation & connecting with them, makes a tremendous difference. They all leave with a smile :)

Hometown:
Gainesville, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Adventure by bicycle is what describes me best - I can never get enough! The only thing that I love more is spending time with friends and family! Volunteering in the community is an equal passion of mine. In fact, I joined the VCU Vaccine Corps and have vaccinated well over 150 people!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I want to serve in places that other dentists turn down. It is my life's goal to deliver the highest caliber of care with the latest techniques and technologies to patients near and far. Everyone deserves the best treatment, no matter where they are in life.

Hometown:
Arlington, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in a poor and rural village in Vietnam. Ever since I came to the U.S. to care for my disabled dad, we've lived on government subsidies. Working as a volunteer with low-income young people enabled me to realize how hard work and strong values can lead us to where we need to be in life.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry is correlated directly to my own experiences, where I both experienced myself and saw in others the debilitating effects of dental pain on our overall quality of life. This made a strong and lifelong impression on me to pursue dentistry to help ease suffering for others.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The College of William and Mary–BS in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in the lovely city of Richmond, VA. I currently live with my dog, Cody, who is a Yorkshire Terrier. When I am not studying, you may find me in the gym, eating at my favorite restaurants or somewhere near a beach spending quality time with my family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I believe that oral health contributes to quality of life by influencing traits like confidence and self-esteem. Therefore, I have the ability to transform and improve someone’s life by practicing dentistry and educating people on the importance of oral health

Hometown:
BOHANNON, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University –Bachelors of Science in Cellular, Molecular, and Physiological Biology with a minor in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been working as a dental assistant for over 5 years while attending both an undergraduate and master's program. I am an avid chef and baker, as well as a fervent artist, participating in ceramics classes every weekend. I am also a proud dog mom to a 15 year old rescue chi-weenie named Batman.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have found my calling with dentistry. I am driven by my desire to help my patients, and in turn have found that they help me grow and learn more about myself. I am interested in a career that allows me to balance my personal life and professional career and feel as though I have a lot to offer it.

Hometown:
Miami, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Florida International University–Biology BS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
As an only child, I was born and raised in the countryside of Cuba. At the age of 10, to escape communism, I sailed to the USA in a homemade boat. I love fishing and everything that has to do with the ocean. Family is the most important thing in my life, including by husky, Filix. I love America.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up in a very underserved Cuba, where my mom had a great impact on the community as a dentist. I saw my mom as a passionate superhero with the powers to provide oral healthcare to very needed people who had nowhere else to go for care. I want to make such an impact as well through dentistry.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a recent graduate from UVA. Although I am not yet married, I come from an extremely large and close-knit family. I have 37 first cousins alone and countless more second cousins, so interacting with people from different walks of life is something I am used to and enjoy! I am also an avid baker!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides the unique opportunity to be a hands on provider. I love that this profession helps me give newfound confidence to others or take away any pain and open the door to a pain free day-to-day life. Seeing the results of my hard work and the patients perseverance is the ultimate reward

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is David Wein. I am a Virginia native who currently resides in Midlothian with my wife Breanne and our dachshund named Basil. I enjoy spending time with family and learning about new things in my spare time. I am a compassionate person who likes to help people no matter their circumstances.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I LOVE this field of work! My wife gets tired of how much I talk about enjoying going to school. Being able to help and educate those members of your community with their smiles really gives me a feeling like that of no other. These are lasting impacts that you can make on your patients'.

Hometown:
Bethesda, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Delaware–Exercise Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Zak Weintraub and I am from Bethesda, MD. I have two younger sisters, one of which is in nursing school and other who is in high school. My family owns a dog whose name is Dawson. I love to watch and play sports, and stay active. I love spending time with my family and friends as well.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because oral health is such an important aspect of overall health. Oral health is not emphasized enough and it has many impacts on ones life, whether it be confidence or something to do with systemic health. I want to have a part in spreading importance of dentistry.

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
College of William and Mary–B.S. in Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 23-year-old who grew up in Northern Virginia and graduated from William and Mary with a B.S. in Psychology. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, painting, singing, and exploring new restaurant venues with my friends. I love dogs and hope to have a corgi and husky of my own in the future.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a field that is greatly undervalued despite its importance in an individual’s health. As a dentist, you have the power to educate patients and improve their self-confidence. Moreover, dentistry is a career that combines my passion for science, creativity, and improving health.

Hometown:
Boynton Beach, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Florida Atlantic University, East Tennessee State University, Chattanooga Community College–Bachelor of Science in Allied Health Leadership, Associates of Applied Science in Nursing

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Reuben, recently married to his wife Sarah, enjoys the opportunity to be a dental student as he understands this is a great privilege that only few have the opportunity to experience. Reuben has a dog and a cat, and loves to be outside doing anything active such as hiking or running.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is an opportunity to do something no other profession can provide, that is highly specialized surgical care and health attention. Dentistry is a people business, and I am passionate about interacting with and improving the lives of others through uplifting their oral health and function

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Science and Human Development

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a Bi-racial Korean American who lives with my mom, dad, and grandmother with Alzheimer's. I enjoy bullet journals, yoga, spending time with friends, or learning a new skill or topic outside of academics. My favorite things to draw in my journal are Pokemon and greek mythology stories.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides an opportunity to impact a patient's life entirely. A motivator for me is serving people with limited resources, so contributing to this one area will positively impact other aspects of their life. This feeling of helping others uplifts me and inspires me to continue to serve.

Hometown:
Providence Forge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Chemistry, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a concentration in Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I migrated alone from Hong Kong and became a cat dad of two. I speak 5 different languages and can write in 3 of them. I love nature so I hike often. I love basketball as much as dentistry. My idol growing up is Kobe Bryant. 'Dream the impossible and seek the unknown' is my life motto.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry and basketball go hand in hand. They both acquire flexibility and integrity. They work as a team to accomplish tasks. They require dexterity and skill. The only thing that dentistry and basketball don’t have in common is that I can make a difference in one but not the other.

Hometown:
Clarksville, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–Public Health Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
More recently, I have been learning how to use a camera for both photography and videography. I have always loved looking back a photos from trips that have changed me significantly. I realized that dental school is only four years short, and I want to be able to document all the memories I can.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My dad has always taught me the value of hard work, and my mother has shown be how to care for family, friends, and even strangers. Dentistry is a true combination of all those values, and I want to carry on those traits into my workplace. Dentistry allows me to continually learn and improve myself.

Hometown:
Arlington, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Over the last two years with dental school my hobbies have disintegrated into thin air. However, my girlfriend and I are enthusiastic about cooking and nutrition. We love to experiment in the kitchen with local farmers market ingredients and attempt to make incredible dishes for family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry because of the life changing impact we can have on a community. As a dental practice owner, not only can you enhance patients' confidence and health but also can create an incredible office culture where staff feels fulfilled and satisfied with the work they do.

Hometown:
Rockville, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–Bachelor of Science, General Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Sanam and I am from Rockville, MD. I am the middle child of three girls and the first dentist in my family. I enjoy being outdoors, whether it be going on a hike with friends, or to the park with my nephew. During my free time, I like to read and am always looking for new recommendations.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As both a patient in chair and a member of the dental community for many years, I have experienced how meaningful being a dentist can be. This field combines my desire to help others with my artistic skill to instill confidence in my patients while also improving their quality of life.

Hometown:
lilburn, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Saveetha Den tal College and hospital–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m a foreign trained dentist from India. I moved to USA to be with my family.Richmond holds a special place in my heart as I met my husband here for the first time at Maymont Garden.I’m passionate about cooking, dancing & drawing.Family means everything to me,& all my free time is dedicated to them

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was a naive 15 yr old when I wanted to be the “cool” dentist that perfected smiles. I would always spend time with creative arts,& watch science documentaries.As I grew older,I developed a deep passion for health sciences,patientcare,aesthetics & manual dexterity, and dentistry unified my passion.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–BA in Cognitive Science, concentration in Neuroscience, minor in Classics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a middle child, and I have the most loving and supportive family. For fun, I like to go see live music with friends, binge TV series, or come up with new recipes using whatever I have in my fridge. In dentistry, I enjoy volunteering and learning about new advancements in dental technology.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to accomplish my goals in life: to work with and serve others, to use my hands skillfully and artistically, to continue my education in science, and to make a difference in people’s lives.

Hometown:
Tucson, Arizona

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am foreign-trained dentist from Iraq who is currently going to join D2 class. I am married and have two little babies, 18 months girl and 5 months boy. I enjoy spending my spare time playing with my babies. My hobbies are watching soccer and travelling and learning about different cultures.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was fortunate to see my old brother doing diverse dental treatments while I was in the high school and I said to myself “it is fun and art work that makes people smile happily, I want to do it”. Since then, I make a commitment to optimize oral healthcare of people and improve their quality of life

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The Ohio State University–Bachelors of Science in Business Administration

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 24 year old rising D2 that has spent time living in Dallas, TX; Columbus, OH; and Alexandria, VA. Outside of dental school, my hobbies and interests include improvisational comedy, music (playing trumpet and appreciation, especially of jazz music), running, and skiing (in the winter).

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I lost number 8 and number 9 in a biking accident when I was 8 years old and congenitally born without 24 and 25. I spent a lot of time the decade after in the chair ultimately culminating in 2 bridges & seeing almost every specialty first hand as a patient. This made me want to help others like me.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love the outdoors and spend my time outside hiking, gardening, and at the park. I also love art and am always drawing and painting. My third passion is animals. I have an adorable rescue cat named Dexter who loves to play fetch. He even lets me brush his teeth; he’s a perfect little patient!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dental hygiene melds my two passions- helping people and artistry. I’ve always been interested in health topics. After my uncle experienced a health scare following a tooth infection, I realized how connected oral health and overall health truly are- it's my mission to help my future patients.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia commonwealth university –bachelor of science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Iran. In 2011, I moved to the United States for better life opportunities. I love working out, playing badminton and I also enjoy fishing. Being raised by a woman who was a hairstylist also sparked my passion for cosmetics and beauty.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry because is it an extraordinary career that provides care for patients health, appearance, and function. Dentistry allows me to build a relationship with my patients, and combine my leadership skills, knowledge and art to help others.

Hometown:
Herndon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I graduated from Virginia Tech in 2017 and am a current D1 student. I am also a first generation American and the first in my family to go to dental school. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, running, skiing, and any outdoor activities. I also enjoy travelling and trying new and different foods.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me, dentistry is a remarkable combination of my two passions: art and science. Not only does it allow me to work with my hands, but also gives me the opportunity to literally put smiles on people's faces. Seeing satisfied patients gives me the motivation to continue doing my best every day.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia commonwealth university –bachelor of science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Iran. In 2011, I moved to the United States for better life opportunities. I love working out, playing badminton and I also enjoy fishing. Being raised by a woman who was a hairstylist also sparked my passion for cosmetics and beauty.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry because is it an extraordinary career that provides care for patients health, appearance, and function. Dentistry allows me to build a relationship with my patients, and combine my leadership skills, knowledge and art to help others.

Hometown:
Lorton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a twin and I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. Family is important to me; my parents are my role models. During my free time, I like to play basketball, exercise, travel, try new restaurants, explore the outdoors, listen to music, and watch movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry helps to fulfill my perfectionist needs and more importantly, I enjoy the friendly relationships formed with patients while serving to improve their health and well-being. It also combines my interest for art and science, it's a rewarding career.

Hometown:
LAKE ZURICH, Illinois

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Illinois at Chicago–Bachelor's degree in Biological Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from South Korea and came to US in 2006 as an exchange student. I lived with my American family for a year in PA. Living in a foreign country was difficult; however, I learned to accept different environment and embracing the language and culture.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When I volunteered at the Giving Heart in Richmond, I was touched to see how many people were happy to receive toothbrush and toothpaste. It strengthened my appreciation for dentistry and helps me realized the satisfaction the can be achieved within this caring procession.

Hometown:
SPANISH FORK, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Utah Valley University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My wife and I have been married for 3 1/2 years, we have a big dog and a small cat and plan to have our first child this year. She's a painter and currently works with kids with special needs as an ABA therapist. I love bass guitar, good music, Star Wars, animals, and dental school.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I think it's ridiculously cool to have a career that enables you to have a positive impact on people in your community every single day. Dentistry is a quintessential example of such a career that also provides personal challenge and development of multiple skills, all based on scientific evidence.

Hometown:
Suffolk, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology and Religious Studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am third year dental student and a native Virginian. I enjoy spending time with family and friends and in my community volunteering my time and efficiency. I am a first generation American who really enjoys the best of both worlds. I enjoy my cultural heritage and American values.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry is deeply rooted in my affection for service. Dentistry allows me to serve patients to directly alleviate symptoms and to provide holistic care by treating the patient and not just the symptoms. The longevity of dentist-patient relationship allows for compassionate care.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Radford University–Bachelors of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Richmond, VA and have always looked up to my father, who is a dentist, as a great role model and now I am following in his footsteps! I have an African-American brother who was adopted and we could not be more opposite. This has taught me to value the interests of others.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is such a unique profession in that it incorporates other professions like engineering, carpentry, medicine, and art all into one. It is rewarding to relieve patients of pain, make them more confident in themselves with an esthetic smile, and ensure normal functionality of their teeth.

Hometown:
Ashburn, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology and Cognitive Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born in Kazakhstan, I moved to the U.S. with my mom in 2003. Most of our relatives living out of the country, my immediate family is very close. I visit them often and we enjoy cooking, going to the beach, and watching Virginia basketball together.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Aside from seeing a patient's immediate relief after remedying an oral pain, I love dentistry because it's a very unique profession --combining science, surgery, art, materials science, etc. I'm excited to become a master in this profession and contribute to its wealth of knowledge.

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
College of William and Mary–Kinesiology with a Concentration in Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Virginia. I enjoy spending time with friends, family, and nature. While volunteering at the Chesapeake Care Clinic, I assist VCU dental students. My hobbies are fishing, meteorology, and thrift shopping. I appreciate trying new foods and activities.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My decision to pursue dentistry occurred at Sentara Norfolk General Trauma Center. That night, I observed nine out of the fifteen low income patients who were seeking dental pain relief. There were limited treatment options. My goal is to properly address the dental needs of underserved populations.

Hometown:
Brunswick, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Georgia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm the only Georgia boy the Class of 2022 has to offer! In my time away from dental school, I enjoy playing golf with classmates and friends, strumming a tune or two on the guitar, and attending my church. I am single right now, trying to nail down my career before starting my family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a fantastic blend of art and science. D1 year has certainly emphasized both of these skill sets. I truly love the craft, regardless of how frustrating it can be at times when I am first learning it. I'm driven to master these skills, for doing so might just impact a person's way of life

Hometown:
Keswick, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Piedmont Virginia Community College–Associate's Degree in Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I recently graduated from Piedmont Virginia Community College with an Associate's Degree in Science. In my free time outside of academics, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, singing, volunteering in my community, and mentoring middle school girls through a program at my church.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The common joke among family friends is that dentistry is “in our blood” and that my family was born to practice dentistry and commit our careers to serving others. I have watched my family serve the community for so many years, and through my own volunteer experience, their passion has become mine.

Hometown:
Williamsburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S. Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
When I am not studying, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family and friends either in Richmond or in my hometown of Williamsburg, Virginia. I am a charismatic people person, as well as a foodie, so I have really enjoyed trying all of the new things that Richmond has to offer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry stems from my experience volunteering as a dental assistant at the Lackey Free Clinic and seeing the impact it makes on so many people's lives. Since then, this passion has further grown due to the dentist's role in connecting with others and the ability to be artistic.

Hometown:
Orem, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Italy, but I also lived in Spain and London. My wife and I are expecting a baby girl in October. I have one small dog named Prince. I play the cello and the piano. I love fitness, playing soccer, listening to music, and watching movies. I like reading self-improvement books.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
It's one of the noblest professions focused on helping people with something they need but can't or don't know how to do on their own. It's both challenging and exciting. It requires continuous education which is perfect for me as I am obsessed with learning. It requires high moral standards.

Hometown:
Chester, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy having Netflix marathons with my husband and cat, woodworking, playing guitar, going to the gym, and home-brewing beer. I spend a lot of weekends exploring Richmond restaurants, parks, and breweries, and have recently challenged myself to become a better cook and baker.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the perfect amalgamation of science, art, and problem solving. I love that it gives you the opportunity to work with your hands and to help alleviate people's pain, as well as help them gain self confidence and smile more! It combines all of my passions and is an exciting challenge.

Hometown:
Jersey City, New Jersey

Undergraduate school/degree:
G.D Pol's Foundation Yearla Medical Hospital and Trust–Bachelor in Dental Surgery( B.D.S)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Personally I am a fun loving person, living a happy married life with a 3 year old toddler who brings all the happiness and excitement to our lives. As a family we like to travel, explore places, food, outdoor activities. Given a chance we love spending time with our parents.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry stems as a childhood experience I had with my dentist. An experience which become fascination and soon I became passionate about dentistry and opted for it as a career. By every passing day, I learnt how multifaceted it is and its importance in people's life in maintaining good health.

Hometown:
richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Manipal University–Bachelor Of Dental Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up in a small town in Hyderabad in a close knit joint family, family has always been a big support system which I can rely on. It helped me do well in school, balance sports, volunteering, and my extracurricular activities. Being brought up in a huge family, It has always been very easy for

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me dentistry seemed more of an avocation as it is a vocation. The ability of a dentist to make a profound difference in an individual's life and potentially prevent disease conditions is what makes me love the field.

Hometown:
Old Bridge, New Jersey

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a natural leader, speaker and a liberal lady. I like to explore nature. I am always in constant pursuit of enlightenment. I like to share happiness and joys with others. My hobbies are to make candles, cakes, bags and I love doing photography.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a very diverse field. As a dentist, one is not just a leader, but also a caring doctor, an artist, an educator, a scientist who likes to innovate and a team player. Overall, a dentist serves his community and strive to improve others' quality of life through all his abilities.

Hometown:
Germantown , Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland College Park –Neurobiology and Physiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My husband and I have developed a passion for running and motivate each other to live healthy lifestyle. In my free time I like to cook traditional Peruvian recipes to stay in touch with my cultural background. I also enjoy reading psychological thrillers.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was born and raised in a very poor community in Peru. I saw first hand how crippling having a failed healthcare system can impact your way of life. Having many dental issues as a child and traveling hours to get to a dentist has immensely impacted my drive to become a dentist and serve others.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Chemistry- Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Having played piano for twenty years, I was a piano teacher. I am a photographer, sculptor, comic artist, and wood-worker. I am interested in sustainability, chicken farming, and aquaponics. I love to cook and maintain an active lifestyle via blues dancing, rock climbing, and hiking

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry dovetails my passion for art, science, and helping others. I want to not only resolve a patient’s pain, but also to make aesthetic improvements and send patients home with happier smiles. Every patient fights their own inner battle. I want to be their trusted confidante.

Hometown:
Mclean, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University–B.S. in Human Nutrition, Foods and Exercise

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
It is difficult to introduce myself without mentioning my involvement at my local church. I love to spend time with the youth, teaching them how to read the bible. I often volunteer at the local soup kitchen to serve the underprivileged with my church community.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up, I must have visited the dentist every month. Every appointment, I remember walking out of the office fully relieved of whatever was bothering me. The profession of dentistry can make an immediate impact in the lives of those in need, and I want to share these gifts with my community.

Hometown:
Voorhees, New Jersey

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland –B.S. General Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an outdoors loving, adventure seeking, foodie. This year I have focused a lot on running and continue to set goals for myself, a major goal being the Richmond Marathon. I also enjoy cooking, but there's nothing like exploring a city through food. I love spending time with family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that I will have an impact on someones life every single day I go into the office. I look forward to building close relationships with not only my patients but my coworkers as well. Dentistry allows me to be creative, hands on, and continue to learn as the field is always progressing.

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Chemistry/Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising second year dental student that enjoys the outdoors, playing intramural sports, and hanging out with classmates outside of school. My hobbies include practicing operative in Woolwine Lab, baseball, hiking, and exploring all that Richmond has to offer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry offers me the opportunity to work with patients one on one and be able to develop a relationship within the community that I practice dentistry. Dentistry offers the ability to actually talk to patients and develop trust within each other and that is one of the things I am passionate about

Hometown:
Land o lakes, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of South Florida–Biomedical Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Tampa, Florida, and really enjoy sunshine, outdoor adventures, and being active! I am the youngest of six children, and feel lucky to share a mix of cultures with my Chinese mother and Arabic father. I love to travel and look forward to starting a new adventure in Virginia.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As I grew older, I recognized the serious expenses my parents sacrificed for me to get proper dental care because we could not afford good dental insurance. After leading 2 mission trips to South America, I am determined to one day provide service for underserved communities and spread this passion.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first generation American, born into a family of mixed French-Vietnamese culture. I am the youngest of 3, if you count my twin brother who is 5 minutes older than me. I enjoy reading, working out, and playing tennis. This past year I was a D.5 student and worked in the Endodontics department.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry’s ability to heal and restore confidence is what excites me about this field. It allows the opportunity to give back to the community while building positive relationships and educating others. Making a difference, no matter how big or how small, is what matters to me.

Hometown:
Chantilly, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a newly wed with many hobbies that includes Arabic calligraphy art and crochet knitting which I learned at a young age. Through these hobbies, I have been able to give back to the community by selling my pieces art and donate the money to organizations devoted to immigrants and refugees.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My experiences solidified my decision to pursue a career in dentistry based on the principles of technical skill and humanism. After shadowing in a dental clinic and providing relief work, both of these foundational principles shone through time and time again, making dentistry the perfect fit.

Hometown:
Virginia beach, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Hampden Sydney College–Bachelor of the Sciences, Biology major chemistry minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
When I have time away from dental school, I really enjoy spending time with my Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Rudee, and being outdoors, especially being near the water. When outdoors and when the season is right, I enjoy most kinds of hunting as well as saltwater fishing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've always been passionate about helping others and dentistry has truly allowed me to find my way. While oral health is extremely important to our physiologic state, I greatly enjoy the renewed look of confidence patients gain after their less than perfect smile has been fixed.

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Woodbridge, Virginia. I enjoy photography and oil painting of wildlife and landscapes. On the weekends when I am not studying for an exam or volunteering, I may be found on the Virginia Capital trail running or exploring a new hike.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry encompasses my passion for helping others while expressing my artistic ability and problem-solving skills. Seeing the relief of a patient who is no longer in pain and pleased with their smile gives me incredible gratification and the knowledge that dentistry is what I am born to do.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a military brat from Tidewater Virginia. I moved so often that I just claim that entire region instead of a specific city. In my spare time I enjoy keeping up with the latest black sci-fi authors and reading their novels. The most recent author I have kept up with is Nnedi Okorafor.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a dental hygiene student, I am most passionate about the preventative aspect of dentistry. I have volunteered in various public housing communities as an outreach volunteer and as a teacher to students and there is such a disconnect between overall health and oral health; I want to change that.

Hometown:
Springfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a first-generation graduate student from a large Vietnamese family. Besides spending time with my family, I enjoy volunteering, hiking, and baking delicious treats. My goal for the future is to be a passionate dentist that help others and is involved in my community.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allowed me to express my artistic ability, work with my hands, and improve my patient's quality of life. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to use my passion in dentistry to help others.

Hometown:
Burke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Virginia. I grew up playing the piano and cello, and have taught myself guitar and ukulele. I love the outdoors, whether it’s a walk in the park or hiking. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, weightlifting, reading, and exploring new places!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have always had an inclination for healthcare and serving others, but dentistry is unique for the art aspect and ability to make an immediate impact. I am driven by its platform to educate, empathize, and empower others. The fulfillment of making patients happier and healthier is unlike any other.

Hometown:
Great Falls, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been working as a pediatric dental assistant for the past three years and am very excited to be moving toward a career as a dentist! In my spare time, I love embroidering, reading novels, and drawing. My girlfriend and I also love to travel together, whether in the US or abroad!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gives me a conduit to fulfill my desire for meaningful interaction. As an assistant, I have enjoyed building relationships with patients based on trust and communication. As a future dentist, I look forward to also combining my love for art and science into a means of caring for patients.

Hometown:
Montclair, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S. in Human, Nutrition, Food, and Exercise

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 23 years old from Basque Country (northern tip of Spain) and grew up in Woodbridge, VA. I am a 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, lifeguard supervisor for 4 years (saved 4 year old with CPR), regional champion in wrestling, played the piano and violin for 9 yrs, and now serve in the U.S Army

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I really love working with my hands and the autonomy that dentistry provides. I love the lifestyle of being able to come home to my family at night and spend time with them. I love the satisfaction I get from helping others improve the way they look and giving back to people who cant afford it.

Hometown:
Cedar City, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Southern Utah University–B.S. Human Nutrition

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from a very small town in southeastern Utah called Monticello. I have been happily married for seven years now. My wife and I have a 4 year old boy and a 8 month old little girl. I enjoy riding motorcycles, camping, fishing, hiking, and spending time at home with my family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a child I had a horrible fear of the dentist. My neighbor was my dentist and was an incredible person. He was very patient and gentle. His ability to turn a negative situation to a positive one motivated me to follow in his foot steps and emulate that care for patients with the same fear as mine.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a bilingual Iranian-American living in Great Falls, VA with my family of 4 and my cat. My brother and I both commuted to college from home allowing family hikes on Saturdays and bike rides on Sundays. I also enjoy woodworking, painting, playing the piano and attending group workout classes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is not available to a significant proportion of the population. With empathy, manual dexterity, creativity and academic drive, a dentist can have a major impact on underserved populations. The ability to relieve pain, fix a smile or provide the ability to chew in one sitting is remarkable.

Hometown:
Palm Harbor, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Florida–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love the beach, especially reading on the beach and beach naps. I also love traveling. My favorite place I have visited is Ireland. One of the most exciting things I have done is paraglide in Switzerland. I love pasta. I really enjoy spending time with my family. I am getting married next year!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows for innovative treatment solutions. It takes a special kind of person to feel excitement over teeth, but dentistry is more than just teeth. I love that dentistry allows me to care for the entire person, while seeing their joy when they love their new smile.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Sharad Pawar Dental College–Doctor of Dental Surgery

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 30 years old and in my free time I enjoy playing the guitar. I spend my weekends by the river and reflect back on my week. I also enjoy yoga and meditation.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about my profession because it brings me the utmost joy to treat somebody and bring joy to their lives by either getting them out of pain or bringing their smile back. It is a truly rewarding profession as we see results first hand and these drive me everyday to achieve success.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
K. M. Shah Dental College & Hospital, India–Bachelor of Dental Surgery- BDS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a foreign trained dentist currently pursuing a dental career in the USA. I’m married and blessed with a supportive family. I’m an excellent team player with good work ethics, quick learner, professional, and empathic. I enjoy spending time with my family, watch movies, travelling and cooking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The joy of changing a person’s life by creating a beautiful smile, improving their appearance and self- confidence is priceless. The opportunity to relieve pain and suffering is a rare privilege you get when becoming a dentist. I love to work with my hands and enjoy interacting with people.

Hometown:
Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising D3 student from Yorktown, VA, where we won our country's independence. Outside of dentistry I enjoy spending time outside; running, biking, golfing (both disc and regular), tennising, and making up words. I enjoy traveling, I've been fortunate to visit a few new states this past year.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry keeps me excited and engaged with its puzzle like nature. It makes you think and breeds creativity in ensuring patient satisfaction. It allows me to be engaged with my community and to build a rapport with patients that lasts a lifetime. It keeps me satisfied knowing I will never be bored.

Hometown:
Sunrise, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Warner University–B.A.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Colombia, but raised in Florida. I love going to the beach whenever possible and playing tennis since I grew up playing the sport. I do not have kids but do have an adorable Samoyed dog called Bentley, and we like to go on hikes or new adventures anywhere he is allowed.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a beautiful profession that allows me to combine the art of working with my hands and helping people obtain health and confidence. It is also a career that allows me to interact with people on a daily basis, and create a strong patient-provider relationship.

Hometown:
Stafford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am currently an undergraduate student at VCU, but during my free time, I enjoy knitting and crocheting. This hobby is relaxing, tedious, and it also helps show great hand dexterity which is an important skill to have as a dental hygienist. In a short period of time, I was able to make a blanket.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
About six years ago, I had both of my front teeth knocked out and with them went my confidence. The feelings I encountered at the time were unfamiliar and scary, but the role of the hygienist brought comfort to me and it was this specific experience has driven my passion to become a hygienist.

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Aaliyah Gibbs and I'm from Woodbridge, Virginia. I grew up with mom, dad and brother. Recently I lost my dog of 15 years named Dallas. With that being said I love animals, especially dogs. In my free time I enjoy watching sports and spending time outside with my family and friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is an importance to me because of my family's past. Both sides of my family have struggled with access to oral health for a majority of their life. For that reason I strive to give back to my community and provide oral health care to those who otherwise may not have access to it.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am Indian American and the younger of two siblings.I love to make an effort to enjoy the delicacies in life including food, arts, and travel. My ideal weekend is going to a place in the world I have never been to and immersing myself into the culture.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry wraps science, art, engineering, business, and community service all into one profession. It allows me to express each one of my interests every day and it is truly the greatest profession.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University–Bachelor of Science in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My husband and I have been married for 4 years. We live in the west end with our 10-year-old Cairn Terrier, Reegan. Outside of dentistry, I enjoy gardening, walking with my dog, and working on our home. As a former chemistry and algebra teacher, I am a lifelong learner with a love of audiobooks.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about educating my patients about their oral health and its connection to systemic health, in addition to the importance of oral hygiene in disease prevention and control. Dentistry allows me to educate and empower my patients to take an active role in their oral health management.

Hometown:
Harrisonburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–Management

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love playing my ukulele and guitar. I’ve been painting since childhood and enjoy creating nail art. I’ve been a gymnastics coach for the past seven years, and I have a passion for business and entrepreneurship. I also love babies and young children and babysit as often as I can.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry is a mix of science, art, and intricate hand skills. It will give me the opportunity to help others build confidence, and it’s a challenging, ever-changing field that inherently possesses opportunities for lifelong learning. Dentistry allows me to pursue my business interests.

Hometown:
Chantilly, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Stone Ridge, Virginia. I work as a basketball referee and a lab technician at a local orthodontics office when I am home for break. During my free time, I enjoy hiking, playing guitar, cooking and watching movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
In high school, I went on a clinical trip to an impoverished area near my hometown in Vietnam. I assisted a local dentist with tooth extraction procedure to local patients. My experience showed me that dental care goes beyond cosmetic treatments and is critical to one’s quality of life.

Hometown:
Yorktown, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Bachelor of Arts Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a second generation Korean-American student from Yorktown, Virginia. I am a big fan of national parks and the English Premier League, Arsenal Football Club in particular. I spend most my weekends with friends and family, either by enjoying Richmond's sights or driving over to them.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being able to use my own hands to help alleviate someone's health issues is an absolute privilege. I have witnessed firsthand how desperately needed it is around the world during my travels abroad. The prospect of helping needy people in the future is what drives me to work hard in school.

Hometown:
Norfolk, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
UNC - Chapel Hill–BSPH in Environmental Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Norfolk, VA and spent my undergrad in Chapel Hill, NC (go Heels!). I moved to Richmond for dental school and have loved exploring the city, especially Byrd Park and the James. In my free time, I like to enjoy the outdoors with friends, and have recently taken up pottery on the wheel.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry holds the power to change lives, by relieving patients of pain, restoring confidence in their smiles, and spotting malignancies that may otherwise go unseen. As a dentist, where I choose to dedicate my service holds the power to empower a community, by providing care to the underserved.

Hometown:
Free Union, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from the rural outskirts of Charlottesville. I spend my days riding horses, raising farm animals, and growing vegetables and flowers. At school, my friends and I take trips to different parks to pick up trash while listening to music. I have been with my high school sweetheart for 5 years now.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I have seen the overwhelming need for compassionate dentists in myself and in my own community and want to aid in preserving dental health throughout. I admire the doctors who remove themselves from their practices to help as volunteers. The skills that dentists have is a privilege to share.

Hometown:
Duluth, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Georgia–Biological Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Though I have lived in Georgia for 20 years, I am very excited to return to the state where I was born. When I have the time, I hope to explore the many historical sites, miles of backpacking trails, and fly fishing streams Virginia has to offer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As much as I enjoy engineering, it often lacks personal connection to the people I am trying to help. In contrast, dentistry is hands on, and I would directly interact with patients to alleviate their pain. The satisfaction of personally helping patients would motivate me through years of practice.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S. in Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a single rising D2 from Southside Virginia. I enjoy weight lifting, clay target shooting, comedy and reading. I am the human to three dogs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to perform precise technical work while forging ongoing patient relationships, a facet that is missing in many technical fields.

Hometown:
Burke, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My ideal day consists of spending time with family, exploring new places, and eating...anything. I'll try everything at least once! On other days, you can find me rock climbing, making music, or just finding new things to do!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I originally chose dentistry to serve others with education and treatment. Seeing these aspects enhanced with the advancements of digital dentistry and dental materials has shown me that I can further serve my community through clinical research and development of these technologies.

Hometown:
Springfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a fitness enthusiast and have competed in powerlifting. Guiding and motivating people towards a successful path of self-improvement, whether that is fitness or academically related, is both energizing and self-satisfying. My time spent with loved ones is the most valuable aspect of life for me.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I'm determined to have a gratifying career that fulfills my desire to positively impact others; dental school is my dream come true. Surrounded by limitless opportunities in the field, my dream is to be an exceptional dentist and own a practice whose mission is to help, educate, and inspire others.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Central Oklahoma–B.S. Biology and B.S. Chemistry - Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I moved to the United States as a teenager to pursue a career in dentistry. My hobbies are ones that involve working with my hands such as woodworking, leatherworking, and gardening. I also spend my free time hiking in the Shenandoah mountains with my dog and exploring historic sites nearby.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Throughout my academic career, I have successfully balanced my studies and employment. Recently, I completed my D5 year while working full-time in order to support my family. Receiving academic financial aid will assist my goal in owning a local practice and give back to the community.

Hometown:
Clover, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
A little about myself, I have numerous hobbies which include anything that involves the outdoors (fishing, mountain biking, kayaking, etc.) I have a pet cat and four pet dogs. I played a lot of golf and baseball growing up, with playing golf at the collegiate level.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I feel like it is a good career choice to give back to the community by communicating and keeping them healthy. Also it allows me to have a good family life once I graduate from school to spend time with my family and my future kids.

Hometown:
MIdlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bacherlor of Science (Chemistry)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I lived in Virginia for 19 years, and I recently started my own family with a woman I dated for nearly 10 years. We do not have kids yet, but we are enjoying our new life together with Brownie, our little Dachshund. I enjoy learning golf, and I am hoping to be out there in the field very soon.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gave me purpose in life when I was lost and showed that my life can be meaningful by serving those in need.

Hometown:
Manassas, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –Systems and Information Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up in a military family, I gained an appreciation for travel early on. I am open-minded, inclusive, and inquisitive with a profound appreciation for my home: Virginia. With an engineer’s attention to detail, I approach dentistry with the passion and fastidiousness of an artisan.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has allowed me to apply my professional and technical skills to heal and educate my community. This past year, I used my engineering skills to develop a new dental innovation aimed to protect dental professionals from bur sticks. My project won 1st place at the annual VCU research day.

Hometown:
Stephens city, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an international dentist who is married and lives in Stephens city, VA with my husband and a three year old daughter. We spend as much as time together travelling, exploring, cooking, watching movies and gardening. I came to US to fulfill my lifelong dream to pursue DDS degree.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
With my personal experiences, dentistry made me realize that professional education is not only about getting grades and awards but also its a mission to be social while developing your useful skills. My experience gained was second only to the gratitude and happiness expressed by my patient.

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–BA in Cognitive Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Amr Khatib. I was born in Fairfax, Virginia and raised in Damascus Syria. I came back to the US 6 years ago fleeing the Syrian civil war and seeking a dental education. In my free time, I like to swim, meet new people and volunteer at the dental school.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up with a lot of TMJ disorders and my childhood dentist helped solve some of those problems. This disorder became an aesthetic problem causing a mandible shift which lowered my self-esteem. My dream is to become an Oral Surgeon with a specialty in TMJ disorders to help other people in need.

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:
Lorton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 24-year old rising D3 student, excited to begin my journey in clinical dentistry in a few weeks. Home is Lorton, VA, where my amazing mother raised my brother, Pedrom, and me. Outside of school, I love to spend my time running along the Capital Bike Trail, listening to music, and writing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to be someone that I myself needed while growing up. In and out of doctor appointments, I still remember my most genuine doctor, whose compassion suppressed my fears. Ever since, it was my life goal to be that for my own patients, as a dentist.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Queens College–BA in Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 27 years old and have been married to my best friend for the last 4 years. I am originally from NY but my wife and I moved to Richmond 2 years ago and recently purchased a house. I love spending time with my wife, visiting the local breweries and playing sports such as softball and tennis.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to impact people's lives in a very important way. There are too many people close to me that are self-conscious about their smile. Dentistry will allow me to help them overcome these feelings and help them, and others, improve their everyday lives

Hometown:
Ashburn, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Forensic Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a 3rd year dental student, about to enter clinic! I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, and exploring trails around the James River. Basketball has been one of my favorite sports growing up as a kid and I love playing it in my free time. I also love trying new things and being adventurous!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love being able to perform a craft using my hands and technical skills in order to serve the oral health needs of others. In addition to that, the flexibility dentistry offers with a great work-life balance as well as autonomy over my career path is something I find very valuable!

Hometown:
Santa Rosa, California

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of California, Irvine–B.S. in Public Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m the eldest of 4 girls with a mother from the Philippines. I worked as a lake lifeguard, city mascot, 4th & 5th grade afterschool teacher & dental assistant. I’ve been on 4 dental mission trips to Honduras, Panama & Jamaica. I won a D1 tooth building competition. I'm in the Occlusion selective.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry lets me apply my love for science, artistic skills, and interpersonal skills towards the improvement of someone's smile, health, and self-esteem. It's especially rewarding to provide quality care and education to children, patients with special needs, and those in underserved communities.

Hometown:
aliquippa, Pennsylvania

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown–BS in Biology and Minor in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Being from Pittsburgh, PA I'm a huge Steelers fan. I enjoy playing golf with some of my classmates. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it is hiking, fishing, swimming, or tennis. Indoors, I like to play board games, cards, watch movies, and cook.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I'm passionate about dentistry because it gives me a chance to give back to my community. As a dentist, I would be very important for the health of my patients, especially their smile. The ability for patients to be confident in their smile can really make their day and even their whole life

Hometown:
CHARLOTTESVLE, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Korea until my family moved to Chester, VA when I was 13. I am a dog mom to the cutest but slightly crazy Pomapoo puppy. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, especially when there's good food involved. I also enjoy exploring new places, playing tennis and kayaking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love how dentistry allows me to help and care for others in very personal ways. Also, the more I learn about dentistry, the more I find this profession a perfect fit for me. I love how it requires strong attention to detail, artistic abilities, manual dexterity, delicacy, and compassion.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a single, asian-american male who loves to cook, jam out on the drums, and spend time with my family. I would say that I love to golf especially with my family, however, Charles Barkley seems like a professional golfer compared to me.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I first became interested in dentistry from a missions trip I went to as a kid in The Gambia, Africa. At that point I was only allowed to carry blood buckets, but I found that the more I served the community (like during MOM projects), the combination of hand skills and empathy drew me close.

Hometown:
Portland, Oregon

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’ve always had a passion for studying biological systems. However, aside from school I love networking. I love meeting and befriending people from different backgrounds via new clubs or sports I join. I then make memorable experiences by having genuine conversations with people.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
300 characters is nowhere near enough for me to explain my passion for dentistry. What I can tell you is that from past experiences I have observed those more adept and seasoned than I, and I realized the extent of thing I could achieve if given the opportunity to pursue my ambitions.

Hometown:
Weston, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Miami–Economics and Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love working out, spending time with friends and family and being on the water. I love to travel and explore new places and meet people all around the world. I do not currently have a pet, upon graduation I want to adopt a dog. I also enjoy teaching, as I do online tutoring every day after school.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gives me the ability to make a direct meaningful impact on someone's life. Whether giving them confidence by transforming their smile, relieving their pain, or helping them make positive lifestyle changes, my experiences thus far have only deepened and excited my passion for dentistry.

Hometown:
Gainesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Emory University –BS in Biology and Economics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in China, grew up in Cedar Rapids, IA, and lived in Atlanta for college while my family moved to Gainesville, VA. I have a rescued cat named Dingleberry and I taught him how to sit and shake. I am a Disney enthusiast and I enjoy traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to directly help patients with regaining smiles and confidence through interpersonal relationships. I appreciate the sense of accomplishment that accompanies every procedure. I also love that dentistry allows me to serve the underserved community with practical services they need

Hometown:
Springfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Capital University–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love sports, national parks, and food. I am on every intramural sports team my class has and have joined city leagues as well. With my family, I have been to over a quarter of the national parks. I hope to visit more. I love trying new food and consider myself lucky Richmond has so much to offer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about the first hand service I get to provide that has an immediate life-changing impact. I will never forget the experience of my first denture patient that covered his mouth while he spoke then couldn't stop smiling and wanted to show off his new dentures once we delivered.

Hometown:
Warrenton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Alabama at Birmingham–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Warrenton, Virginia and I am the oldest of two sons. I am an avid sports fan and I especially like watching and playing tennis, basketball, and soccer. I also love going on adventures with my parents and little brother exploring surrounding cities of the northern Virginia area.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has been the most consistent part of my life since I was a 15-year-old kid. I have always said that helping change someone's smile for the better can radically improve their quality of life. I want to demonstrate empathy and humility with my patients to develop life-long relationships.

Hometown:
Livermore, California

Undergraduate school/degree:
Southern Virginia University–B.A. Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My wife will be studying genetic counseling at VCU, where we are ecstatic to continue our education. We are avid explorers, and often forgo a night indoors to hunt for new sites in the city or in nature. We both enjoy reading in our downtime, as well as learning how to leash train our cat Jane.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Volunteering with Remote Area Medical helped me see the impact that one dentist can make. The dentists I assisted were selfless with their time and resources, showing me the kind of dentist I want to be. My passion has revolved around participating and promoting free clinics for the under served

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Richmond–B.S. in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm originally from Iraq and I've lived in Virginia for almost 10 years. This month I will celebrate my first wedding anniversary. I enjoy music and fitness. I spend the little free time I have cooking and working out with my wife. I also play the drums in my church band.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion about dentistry started when I was 8 years old. My cousin who was a dental student at the time performed a lot of dental work on me and he explained each step to me. That sparked my interest in dentistry and I continuously worked to get into dental school to start my career in dentistry.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Cornell University–B.S.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up Vienna, Virginia, with my mother, father, and younger brother. I love to garden with my family and explore our surroundings. I also do Chinese dance, and am interested in exploring other dance styles. I also enjoy practicing meditation and learning about mindfulness and wellness.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because of the ability dentists have to educate and empower patients to care for their oral health and prevent future issues. The oral cavity is a part of the whole body and overall wellness.

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Liberty University –Biomedical Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have worked since I was in undergraduate courses and have been a lifeguard, certified pharmacy technician, and a dental assistant. I love time spent outside exploring Richmond and running races. I have been moved around a lot since I was little due to my dad having financial/career changes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up the oldest of 4 siblings showed me how to be devoted to people when they need me especially when mom had health problems. Serving others in the health field has always been my passion. I have found that dentistry is what I am good at and where my heart is devoted.

Hometown:
Miami, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Miami–Double major in Advertising and Microbiology & Immunology, Minor in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born in Buenos Aires, I moved to Miami when I was six years old. I adore going on outdoor adventures, like rollerblading or paddle boarding, with my two sisters and beagle. I love baking (my favorite: chocolate chunk peanut butter cookies), playing piano, singing along to musicals, and sightseeing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Idleness is my greatest enemy and dentistry is my ultimate superpower. I want to be challenged while being able to serve my community. I want to improve public health, create a trusting relationship with my patients, and give people confidence in their smiles. I want to craft, learn and contribute.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Bridgewater College–Health and Exercise Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Some of my favorite hobbies have always been doing outdoors things like hiking and biking, while also trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle with running and lifting weights. I have also just recently started to play the guitar and taken steps towards learning to speak Spanish.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it provides an opportunity to connect with others in a way that meaningfully impacts their lives. I look forward to becoming a part of a community, and providing care that improves or maintains the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of my patient's lives.

Hometown:
Caracas, Other

Undergraduate school/degree:
Nova Southeastern University–BS in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
In 2015, I came to America by myself in order to seek freedom. Having to learn a new language and start from zero in a foreign country has been one of the greatest challenges in my life. Since I moved, I've been running marathons. Running has helped free my mind and disconnect from the world.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Although this answer is not yet clear to me, now I know dentistry is more than just a job. It is a lifestyle, one in which I'm devoting my time and energy. It allows me to develop myself both intellectually and humanely, where I must combine critical thinking, leadership, and communication

Hometown:
Cochin, Other

Undergraduate school/degree:
Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, Tamil Nadu, India –Bachelor of Dental Surgery

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I completed my dental training and residency (Orthodontics) in India. Completed a project titled ‘Portraits in Dentistry’; Combines my love for photography and the need to raise dental awareness among the marginalized population (Link: https://adobe.ly/2HnLXja). Avid reader, runner, and swimmer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry holds a unique role within the medical sector. It possesses the ability to relieve pain and vastly improve the social perception by means of smile design(aesthetics) and structural enhancements (dentofacial orthopedics). Helping a patient smile confidently lends accomplishment to my work.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a father of two children, a very active two and a half year old boy and a sixteen month old daughter. My hobbies are playing tennis when time permits, reading books and listening to music.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry began since I was in high school. I love the ability to build relationship with patients, help them ease their pain and feel good about how they look and eat. I'm excited to get to work with my hands and use my talent as well as the ability to give back to the community.

Hometown:
Mechanicsville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Reynolds Community College –

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 20 years old, and currently live in Mechanicsville, Virginia. I completed my undergraduate classes at Reynolds Community College.I love being around people young and old. Since the age of 13 I’ve been a nanny/babysitter which enhanced my love for children and my desire to go into dental hygiene

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry was reaffirmed when I started volunteering as a dental assistant at Mechanicsville Christian Free Dental Clinic. Helping and educating those in my community is my top priority, and the dental field meets them.

Hometown:
Suffolk, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a guy who loves enjoying the outdoors with friends, family, and my cat Teego. I live a very active lifestyle between organizing intramural sports for the class and discovering new activities. These include old hobbies like skiing and golf and more recently new ones such as hiking and kayaking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has everything. Being in the profession allows me to pursue business, science, engineering and architecture (though on a mm scale) all in one. It provides the opportunity to run a business and develop relations with coworkers, while at the same time building rapport with patients that last

Hometown:
Manassas, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor of Music

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
So I am a dental student who has a degree in Jazz music. I perform around Richmond in some Jazz club when I afford the time. Music occupies a big aspect of my life as I also write music for Arabic Christian Teams. I am single and have a puppy - Zalata.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I believe I am passionate about dentistry for 3 main reasons. First, I love how dentistry gives confidence to the patients. A patient life can be changed completely if they are confident about their smile. Second, I love the hand skills/artistic aspect of it. Thirdly, I love fast results.

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 am a non-native Spanish speaker who treats Spanish speaking patients. I lift weights and swim before school. My hobbies include playing the keyboard, being an active member of my church, playing intramural sports and salsa dancing

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:
Payson, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been married for three years. We love anything to do with the outdoors. We enjoy helping underserved and vulnerable communities. When I am not studying you can find me riding the Capital Trail, serving meals to the homeless or building houses for families in need through Habitat for Humanity.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it allows me to build long-lasting relationships with patients, and give back to those in need throughout my community. Additionally, I love the scientific nature of dentistry and being at the cutting edge of science, art, and engineering.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Minor in Studio Art

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy sharing my life with my high school sweetheart. I love water from activities such as wakeboarding, scuba diving, and canoeing to preserving wetland ecosystems. Currently, I am helping my dad grow oysters in our hometown of Virginia Beach. I also love painting and drawing in my free time.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a field that combines my passions of service, science, and art. I discovered this combination volunteering in high school with Operation Smile. While teaching basic oral hygiene and observing the art of oral reconstruction, I determined that art and science serve others through smiles.

Hometown:
Midland, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Georgia Southern University–Bachelor of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Columbus, Georgia with my parents and little brother. I played competitive softball for 13 years and then switched to intramural softball in college. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends hiking, playing sports and hanging out by the pool.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion was sparked through my childhood experiences as a patient in the dental office and then continued as I assisted with exts in a clinic. Dentistry is a profession that will give me opportunities to build lasting relationships with patients and have a positive impact on their overall health.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born in Vienna, Austria; I was lucky enough to witness the tail-end of my parents' ten year journey to the US. In many ways, that journey - one that started in the middle of the night in Northern Iran, took a pit-stop in Istanbul, Turkey and then at a refuge camp in Northern Austria - defines me.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
If this year has been anything, it is confirmation that I am exactly where I need to be. Appreciating first-hand the minutiae that goes behind this art, and just how big of an impact that can have on a person's life; it only makes me more excited for my career to come.

Hometown:
Falls Church, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy traveling, zumba, and cooking. Growing up a Persian-American, I have always been very curious about the world around me and getting to know different cultures/traditions in different countries. Travelling impacts my capacity in lifelong learning and being able try new foods along the way!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry in my eyes is a form of art and I love the dynamic aspect of dentistry. This field enables me to use my creative side along with my love for science to create healthier and brighter smiles. I enjoy the doctor to patient relationship that I can form throughout the years with my patients.

Hometown:
Garland, Texas

Undergraduate school/degree:
Medical University of Villa Clara. Cuba–Doctor in Stomatology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Cuba, I graduated as a dentist and Maxillo-Facial surgeon in my country. I came to the US in 2015 with my wife and 2 daughters, 7 and 14 years old, and we were living in Texas until I was accepted into VCU. I love spending time with my family and traveling to explore different places.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the perfect profession that combines art, science, and hand skills. The dentist can alleviate pain, restore smiles, functions, and happiness. At the same time, by helping others you feel valued and useful, especially those living in underserved areas, who need it the most.

Hometown:
Summerfield, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Massachusetts Amherst –B.S. in Neuroscience with a Chemistry Minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m from North Carolina and recently completed a 2-year graduate program (Master of Physiology with a Biotechnology Certificate) at NC State University. I enjoy working out, making electronic music, spending time with friends, traveling and learning from different cultures. I’m also fluent in Farsi.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I’m very passionate about dentistry because it will allow me to make a positive impact (emotionally, psychologically and physiologically) on individuals in need of care. On top of providing service, I can also get involved in education and research to improve oral health in selected population.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Howard University–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the first in my family to pursue dentistry. I am completing a Master of Public Health degree to empower myself to better serve vulnerable communities. I also babysit and volunteer weekly at my church, and I enjoy singing, playing piano and guitar, baking, drawing, and learning ASL.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I believe dentistry creates opportunities to improve health while instilling the self-confidence that comes from having a beautiful smile. It would be humbling to bring awareness to an overlooked field, reduce health disparities, and watch people grow as they progress through their treatment plans.

Hometown:
Lorton, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a first generation Vietnamese/Chinese American. I love the analytical aspect of science applying it to my hobbies such as brewing kombucha and cooking sous vide when I'm not taking care of my Bernedoodle puppy, Franklin . After graduation, I look forward to serving my country as an Army dentist

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has given me the opportunity to work with patients of all backgrounds especially those with special needs. I am especially grateful for being able to provide these individuals with comprehensive treatment to not only help their oral disease, but also improve their self-esteem and outlook.

Hometown:
Denver, Colorado

Undergraduate school/degree:
Regis University–B.S. Biology and Minor Religious Studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My wife and I have been blessed to introduced to the world our wonderful son Noah. I enjoy the outdoors and soaking up the sun and am ecstatic to show Noah the beauty of world. He is the light of my life and I am excited for the day he can assist me in future dental procedures, father and son.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is so great because you have the chance to change their lives forever. I love that I am in a profession where I provide a service to others that help them feel good about themselves. I am humbled to be able to help others. I am humbled to be able to help others and empower their confidence

Hometown:
Dallas, Texas

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Texas at Dallas, Midwestern State University–BA in Psychology, BS in Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love trying new foods, traveling, and immersing myself in different cultures. My happy place is anywhere with sunshine and water nearby – beaches, lakes, rivers. Family is very important to me and I love spending time with them.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
In many ways, dentistry extends beyond just working with teeth. The oral cavity is the gateway to the rest of the body and can affect a person’s systemic and mental health. I love dentistry because in taking care of one aspect of the body, other areas are able to benefit.

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:
Cary, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
North Carolina State University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising D3, originally from North Carolina and have greatly enjoyed exploring my new home in Richmond. Most of my hobbies revolve around food such as eating different cuisines, learning about nutrition, and cooking new dishes. I am happiest when traveling, hiking with my fiance, or painting.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My mother, a nurse, inspired me to pursue a career in health care. Dentistry encompasses my passions for service, art, and learning. I have witnessed how a dentist can affect a person's life by improving their smile or taking them out of pain. I greatly look forward to these patient interactions.

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:
Hampton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in the Hampton Roads area my entire life. Since I've always been close to a beach or river, my favorite things to do while I'm free are going wakeboarding and surfing. In addition, I played sports like baseball and football so a huge aspect of my life has revolved around staying active.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
After I got my braces taken off as a kid, my self esteem and confidence went through the roof. Being in dentistry gives you the ability to not only relieve people's pain and discomfort, but you can positively change how the patient sees themselves. That impact goes a long way in their daily lives.

Hometown:
Burke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Rice University–Cognitive Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am excited for this first summer after D1 as I will get married to my fiance and he will be starting a PhD program of statistics at UVA in the fall. I love music (violin, composing my own songs with lyrics), reading, and Jesus. I can speak Korean, a little bit of Spanish, and minimal Chinese.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows us to tangibly treat our patients. I want to help people detect signs of other diseases, relive their pain, feel confident about their smiles, and build habits to take their health into their own hands. Dentistry for me is a great combination of science, art, and people.

Hometown:
Fort Myers, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Ramapo College of New Jersey–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a Jersey boy who competed on my undergraduate's rock climbing team. I have been teaching myself how to play piano and guitar for 8 years now, and it's become a wonderful part of my life. Now, I'm pursuing dentistry in order to better support my family and finally give back to them.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is one of the few professions that incorporates artistry, science, and social skills into one career. I love the idea of thinking logically through cases while at the same time have to stay empathetic to the patient's needs and priority of care.

Hometown:
Elgin, Illinois

Undergraduate school/degree:
Dharmsinh Desai University, Faculty of Dental Science–Bachelors of Dental Surgery

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born in the US and grew up in India and attended dental school there. Moved back to the US by myself to pursue a world-class education and a career in dentistry. I spend my leisure time devouring books, working on DIY projects and learning about the newest tech on the block.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My father, an engineer, promoted a very hands-on approach. My grandfather, a prominent physician, positively influenced and prioritized serving the local community. Growing up amidst these values from a very tender age; I found in dentistry, a niche - an amalgamation of engineering and medicine.

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
The two main passions of my life include spending valuable time with my tight knit family and growing in my practice of meditation and mindfulness. I have gone on about 8 meditation retreats and continue going on them during school. I also enjoy reading and watching new movies and documentaries.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides me the perfect way to connect with my community and provide each patient with holistic quality care, while boosting their own self confidence with their smile. Combining art, science, and public service, I hope to continue growing my life long passion for dentistry.

Hometown:
Glen Allen , Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
This is me in a nut shell: My sister is my role model, I have a tattoo of Kenya, my birthplace, on my back, I go into a different world when I paint, my parents are my motivation to work as hard as I can, I "sing", I cherish my friends, I love a good laugh, and of course, I am a total dental nerd.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've heard that Dentistry is an Art. Art and Science, combined in one profession, is the epitome of what I love. My respect for it grew as I watched the countless, meaningful relationships that my dentist created with his patients. He made a difference in their lives, as they did the for him.

Hometown:
Columbia, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland College Park–Neurobiology and Physiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a daughter of 2 immigrant parents from India! My hobbies include traveling, hiking, and kayaking. During my gap year I took advantage of my free time and visited Maine, Rhode Island, Florida, New Orleans, and tomorrow I leave to visit Seattle! I also love attending concerts and music festivals!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
It's a field that is challenging, constantly evolving, & creative that allows me to genuinely engage with others and directly make a difference in peoples lives. I hope to move towards preventative instead of reactive dentistry, and help bridge the gap between disparities in underserved populations.

Hometown:
Burke, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in the Philippines and moved to the United States when I was 11 years old. In the Philippines, I enjoyed living in the rural area. Here in the United States, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family. I also enjoy biking and trying out different types of coffee with my fiance.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has both the scientific and artistic aspects that I enjoy. Since some individuals do not fully understand the importance of oral healthcare to our overall health, educating them about this matter has always been one of my goals besides providing confidence and easing anxiety.

Hometown:
Jacksonville, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Florida State University–Bachelor in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the youngest of five children that grew up in a close knit family in Florida. Family and faith are the most important things to me. If I'm not studying the hours away, I enjoy being with friends. Whether it be with board games, frisbee, or even studying together, I try and bring laughter.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is amazing because of what it gives to us. It allows us to be creative and artistic one minute and to think critically the next. We are able to build amazing relationships with patients, as well as those working with us. It also allows us to give back to the community in a way much needed.

Hometown:
Cramerton, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Elon University–BS in Environmental Studies with a Minor in Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a family oriented, enthusiastic, single North Carolinian. My two passions are advocating for a greener planet and immersing myself in unique cultures through travel and community service. Additionally, I enjoy making others laugh, hiking, yoga, trying new foods, and playing with my dog, Marley.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
After facing the challenges of hypodontia and dental implants, I aspire to provide comprehensive dental care to others. I wish to smile at my future patients confidently displaying some metal peering through my gums to signify my relatability, empathy, and personal experiences in the dental chair.

Hometown:
Houston, Texas

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Houston-Downtown–Chemistry/Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I immigrated alone from Nepal to the U.S. for college at the age of 18. My journey far from my family has been a ride of both hurdles and triumphs. I live with my wonderful husband. I visit my parents in Nepal once every year. I am thrilled about my sister's dental hygiene graduation this August.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I lived my childhood in a remote village of Nepal without access to dental or medical care. Therefore, having lived on that side of the fence, I truly understand how important the access to dental services is to under-served community. My goal is to be able to serve people in need with my caliber.

Hometown:
Saint George, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Southern Utah University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am recently married to my high school sweetheart of 6 years and have no kids. I love staying active by playing baseball, golf and trail running. My wife and I are relocating from northern California to Richmond for dental school and she will be attending nursing school to achieve her RN.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry gives me the opportunity to improve people's lives/overall health on a daily basis. It also gives me the opportunity to stay involved in the community through oral health. The field is always adapting/improving with new technology and techniques which will satisfy my love for learning.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University/ John Tyler Community College–BS Dental Hygiene 2021 / AS Health Sciences 2019

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I work as a bartender, volunteer as a dental assistant and just received an associate degree in Health Sciences. I am a beginner gardener and love collecting plants. I also enjoy cooking and exercise to relieve stress from my busy schedule and will be running my first marathon this fall.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dental hygiene combines my love of helping and educating others. I firmly believe that preventative care is the foundation for a healthy smile and being a dental hygienist will give me the first point of contact in a dental setting to ensure my patient has the best education for oral health.

Hometown:
Charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the president of my class and have enjoyed a year of immersing myself in both the dental school and Richmond. At school I am involved in the ADEA teaching fellowship, the tooth wigglers, ADEA, and Psi O. In Richmond, I have started hip hop lessons, joined a church, ran my first half marathon.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry, not only because I love the technical work, but also because I love working with patients, gaining people’s trust and giving 110% effort in order to help people in their pain and restore and bring a sparkle back to what I believe is everyone’s most important feature, their smile.

Hometown:
Hanover, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–BS - Biological Sciences; BS - Community Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Since immigrating from Poland when I was two, I have always been an avid reader. I love visiting historical sites and exploring the outdoors through hiking and camping. I enjoy spending free time with my family and cooking with my amazing husband, who is on active duty in the US Air Force.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a combination of art and science, yet it also incorporates the human element of improving the lives of others, making it a perfect fit for me. My background in public health motivates me to address the existing disparities in dental health through practice, research, and education.

Hometown:
RICHMOND, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University –Bachelor of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
For twenty of the twenty-five years I have been on this earth Richmond, Virginia, has been my home. In my time away from school, I enjoy a round of golf with my brother, father, and good family friends and the Sunday night family dinners mom cooks.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is at the intersection of art and science, two disciplines that have interested me my entire life. These unique skills learned in school will allow me to give back to the community and make a difference in Virginia.

Hometown:
Yorktown, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
When I'm not studying, I am either caring for my nephews, snowboarding, volunteering at Crossover free dental clinic, or exploring Richmond with friends or family. I also love music and singing. I hope to practice dentistry in Richmond and volunteer at a free clinic as often as possible.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Oral health is pertinent to overall health and I love that I can provide health care and transform lives in an active, hands-on, and creative work space. Not only is dentistry important for pain relief, but transforming a smile can make the difference in someone's life.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm from Virginia Beach & live with my highschool sweetheart and 2 dogs. With an engineering degree and love of painting, dentistry has proven the perfect technical and creative avenue for me to help others as I have always wanted to growing up. My first year has been incredible!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides both local impacts on a person's self esteem & health as well as widespread impacts on communities. It's subtle, yet profound effects on its patients situates the profession in a pivotal position that far reaches into the overall health of its patients, unlike any other profession

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I enjoy traveling, trying new foods from different cultures, spending time with family and friends, hiking, and working out. I moved to Richmond about five years ago and wanted to go to VCU SoD ever since. I have a three years old Siberian Husky who loves Belle isle and Starbuck's Puppuccino.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I chose to pursue dentistry because it combines interacting with patients, science, art, and different daily challenges. Dentistry also gives me the ability to run my own practice and spend time with my family while providing healthcare and improving patients' lives.

Hometown:
Wilmington, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
College of Charleston–B.S. in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Brooklyn, NY, where I was exposed to a cultural mix of ideas, personalities, and walks of life. My family then relocated to Wilmington, NC, where I lived until I moved to Charleston, SC, to attend the College of Charleston. Living in the southeast, I love the beach and the outdoors.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows one to apply comprehensive knowledge of the body’s function and interactions in a personalized and dexterous manner. Allowing patients to embrace a full and healthy lifestyle by leaving a unique life-long impact in an oral healthcare context is why I am passionate about dentistry.

Hometown:
Leesburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Bachelor of Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was raised in Tehran, Iran, and moved to U.S. when I was 18 years old. I started my tertiary education from a community college in Mississippi. My favorite sports are soccer and skiing. I love playing piano in my free time, and over the years, this habit has improved my ability to work in details.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
What I like the most about dentistry is the cosmetic field. I used to have a very bad teeth alignment, and after my orthodontic treatment the result was unbelievable. I had a dream to have a career that makes other people’s lives better and give them more confidence by creating brilliance smiles.

Hometown:
Gloucester Point, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
A year ago, I graduated from college and moved back home with my parents. In my time off from work, I walk our pack of sweet dachshunds, go to the gym with friends, and eat dinner with my family. Investing my time into relationships helps to keep me grounded and center my focus onto others.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Through volunteering at a dental clinic in my hometown, I am able to connect with patients and calm them down in moments when dental anxiety overwhelms them. I have found that providing care for patients with a lack of access gives me a deep sense of purpose and drives my desire to become a dentist.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm single but have a girlfriend at VCU School of pharmacy. We have 3 lazy rescue cats. My hobbies include snowboarding, inventing, 3D printing and off-roading. My dad was in the Army so I moved around a lot. I'm 1/2 Korean and 1/2 German with the name John Smith, which I always thought was amusing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I was introduced to dentistry on a dental mission trip to Mongolia then Africa twice, & I have since been hooked. Dentistry is the first line defense for many chronic diseases like HTN, diabetes and some cancers. Dentistry heals physical and psychological pain, from a tooth ache to restoring a smile

Hometown:
McLean, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Duke University–B.A. International Comparative Studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I moved from South Korea to Virginia when I was in 7th grade. During spare time, I enjoy practicing yoga, watching Duke basketball and writing restaurant reviews. At one point in life, I was training to become a professional violinist!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I just finished my first week in clinic, and it was exhilarating! I love being able to build long-term relationships with patients from different walks of life. Helping one build positive habits that bring lifelong effects on their oral health is an incredibly powerful and humbling process.

Hometown:
North Chili, New York

Undergraduate school/degree:
RIvier University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Rochester, NY and am the first of three children in my family. I have one rescue pup named Bella, and a bearded lizard named Rexy. I have played volleyball all my life and I also practice and teach yoga. I dabble in writing poetry, and hope to publish my work one day!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I feel that it is a profession that allows you to build trusting and positive relationships with your patient, while providing treatment to boost their oral health and support their overall well-being.

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:
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:
Centreville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Business Management and Administration

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up most of my life as an only child to parents who had me at a young age. I now have a 5-year old brother and I have a very close relationship with my family. I have a 3-year old golden doodle who I spend a lot of time with. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with friends and family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry encompasses all that I want out of a career: science and medicine, problem solving, intricate manual work, the opportunity of life-long learning with advancing technology, and the unique ability to build long-term relationships with patients while helping to improve their quality of life.

Hometown:
Sterling, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Food Science & Technology and Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am married and we have a dog. On the weekends, I am usually travelling to see my husband and other family. In my free time, I enjoy walking around Richmond and reading novels. I also enjoy drawing and making jewelry while watching movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is such a unique career. I love that it is active and hands on and I will always keep learning from it. Meeting patients has been my favorite part of it since starting in clinic. Dentistry also has countless service opportunities.

Hometown:
Orlando, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Hampton University–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Orlando, Florida. I enjoy art, cooking, spending time with loved ones, and traveling.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry will give me the chance to express my love for art and to be of serve to the underrepresented community. In addition, dentistry will afford the opportunity to rebuild confidence and gain an intangible joy of positively impacting the lives of others.

Hometown:
Chantilly, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland Baltimore County–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Born and raised in an Indian household, I have always enjoyed embracing my culture as well as learning about other cultures and traditions. I enjoy traveling, reading and competing in sports (soccer, tennis, badminton). I'm adventurous and am always willing to get out of my comfort zone.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I enjoy connecting with people and working with my hands. Furthermore, practicing dentistry gives me the opportunity to directly make a positive impact on one's quality of life, whether it be boosting their self confidence through aesthetic reconstruction or providing oral pain relief.

Hometown:
Roseburg, Oregon

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Microbiology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
As a student from Oregon, I have gotten to expand my experiences while here in Virginia. My wife and I love exploring the history of Virginia during our spare time. We also joined an inner city church. With this church we serve multiple times a week providing visits and support to needy members.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it pushes me to be better person each day. In dentistry I can get better clinically, in my interactions with patients and staff, and in business on a daily basis. I love how I can become the best version of myself to help others through the dental profession.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
As the oldest of 3 and a product of the love and sacrifice that came from my two refugee parents, I am caring and resilient, yet unmistakably outgoing and bubbly. I am an open book eager to meet new people, Yelp unique food destinations, embrace different cultures, and absorb the world around me.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Exposed to the profession at an early age, I gravitated toward the field instantly. Somewhere between prancing around in a tooth fairy costume at the age of 5 and witnessing dentists transform lives, instill a newfound self-confidence, and build trusting, personal relationships -- I fell in love.

Hometown:
High Point, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Linh Tran, and I came from Vietnam originally. Besides being a bookworm, I love outdoor activities. I love to play soccer on the weekend with my friend or hiking. I also love to cook in my spare time; I help me destress and save money!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is an excellent career with many opportunities such as research and preventative care. I enjoy providing care to people in need; my experience at the Mission of Mercy show me how demanding this profession is to the community. Lastly, It feels great to make a difference in people live.

Hometown:
Annapolis, Maryland

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland, College Park–Biology-Neurobiology Physiology, Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from Maryland. I love learning new things and being active outdoors. My hobbies are running, swimming, cooking, writing, and reading. I compete in running races each year, usually 10-milers. I read books of all genres, but especially enjoy non-fiction, historical fiction, and fantasy.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Smiling, laughing, and eating with loved ones brings so much joy to my life. Dentistry lets me use my interest in science, my creativity, and my compassion to ensure others can smile and eat without pain or shame. I also want to teach the importance of oral health and build relationships.

Hometown:
Oak Hill, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a Wahoo, the oldest of two, and the outlier in a family of entirely business majors. I cherish time with my family, especially with our two-year-old rescue dog, Ava! I frequent Richmond coffee shops and have a bucket list of more that I hope to chip away at as I study over the next three years.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry is a journey and constantly pushes me to be the best version of myself. It is challenging yet so rewarding to see how developing intricate hand skills, learning scientific foundations, and creating relationships with patients intertwine to make this profession.

Hometown:
Fairfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University–B.S in Cellular, Molecular, and Physiological Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in a small town called Fairfield and just graduated from CNU. I have a wonderfully loyal German Shepherd named Mike who loves to run with me. In my free time, I enjoy playing piano, snowboarding, crotcheting, and reading. My favorite book is “Coming of Age in the Milky Way”.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up, I watched my mom work as a hospice nurse. I was amazed with her ability to provide relief and comfort for her patients. Later in life, I saw how dentistry blends craftsmanship, artistry, and this provision of relief for others in a unique way that fits my interests and and talents.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I will be a first year dental hygiene student in the fall, born and raised in Richmond, VA despite having French-Canadian heritage. I have one cat and two dogs who definitely keep me on my toes. In my free time, I typically find myself watching movies, volunteering, or relieving stress at the gym.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a fulfilling career for a variety of aspects including the profession’s unique blend of art, science, and detail-oriented creativity. Dentistry allows me the opportunity to make an enduring positive impact on another individual whether that be from an emotional or physical stand point.

Hometown:
Corona, California

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of California Riverside–B.A Political Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born & raised in California & am 1 of 4 siblings. My older brother is a 4th year medical student & my younger siblings are also aspiring health professionals. After being borderline obese for most of my teenage life, I picked up weight lifting as a hobby & have lost over 100 pounds since 2013.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I’m passionate because the mouth is a gateway to an individual’s overall health & dentists serve a gatekeeper role in maintaining a patient’s well-being. Dentists are uniquely situated in detecting treating & preventing the progression of disease through a harmony of medicine, artistry & engineering

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Roanoke College–B.S. in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Roanoke, Va with my mother and sister! All of my favorite hobbies (non-dental related) are enjoyed outside! These include both water/snow skiing, golfing, playing spike ball on the beach and having bonfires with friends. Traveling is something I am also very passionate about.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate due to the level of importance dentistry showed me at a young age. I did not grow up with an adequate level of oral hygiene education and I paid the price with an astronomical amount of cavities in elementary school. I want to be in a position to educate kids in similar positions.

Hometown:
Herndon, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm married to my husband Charlie and we have two rescue dogs named Koko and Mocha both from the Richmond SPCA! As a family we love going on long walks, going to the dog park, and working out together. On the weekends we often go to northern virginia to spend time with my family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love dentistry because it is an amazing combination of art, science, and critical thinking. My patients will walk in and walk out directly benefiting from our treatment and I can be proud of the functional and esthetic work I have done.

Hometown:
Newport News, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biology and Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Beyond my love of science which led me to the field of dentistry I have many other interests. These include wood working and outdoor recreation such as kayaking, biking, gardening and hiking. Additionally, I like serving which has led me to participate in several mission trips.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry allows me to incorporate my love of science, work with patients to improve their quality of life and serve my community. I also enjoy working with my hands and being creative. Dentistry will allow me to continuously grow as a professional as technology progresses.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
If I'm not soaking up the sun at home in Virginia Beach, you can find me at Crabtree Falls or McAfee Knob enjoying nature on a hike. I love being with my family and learning about different cultures through food and travel. One day, I'd like to take culinary classes to gain skills like a pastry chef

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Something as emotional as losing your teeth, identity, looks, and thus your confidence is restored with dentistry. Dentists give gifts of hope- carious teeth get a second chance, missing teeth are replaced, and lives are positively changed as a result. Dentistry is rewarding, powerful and meaningful

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Cognitive Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Richmond with my two siblings and our wonderful parents. In my free time, I enjoy going to concerts and music festivals with friends, eating good food, spending quality time with family, and relaxing by myself. I am overly excited to embark on this new chapter of my life!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I want to serve and increase the quality of life for others, whether that means improving their smile or relieving them of pain. Dentistry will allow me to make a difference in people’s lives, while also allowing me to continue my education in science and use my hands skillfully and artistically.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Iraq, I came to the united states in 2013 as a refugee , I am the caregiver for my parents so basically I live with them I am a cat person I love reading, practicing mediation and playing chess and classical music my passion in life is offer help for people in need

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
because I am passionate about any career the directly impact the community and serve people needs and make a difference *dentistry is the perfect combination of art and science that makes me really love what I am doing. * dentistry is team oriented profession gives us satisfaction as team member

Hometown:
richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth Univeristy–Bachelor of science in Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am in a long distance relationship with my the most wonderful women i have every met, we have a six month old puppy named buddy. i enjoy anything outdoors, from hiking to rafting, star-gazing and camping. i enjoy playing sports like lacrosse and long distance runs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
to me, it all about the human connection. I do not see patients as cases or treatment, I have compassion, care and genuine help for other individuals. I love connecting with others and really getting to know who they are and why they in the chair.

Hometown:
vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
28 year old Palestinian American with a Masters in Biomedicine and a desire to continue learning through a Periodontal Residency. Avid Manchester United fan, sports is my stress reliever, family is my everything.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The ability to serve my community through research, practice, and education is the reason why I cannot wait to become a Doctor of Dental Surgery. Dentistry allows me to give back to my society by leading and promoting oral health care.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
i'm single, foreign-trained dentist who graduated in 2013. who loves to climb, play bowling and do martial arts.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
my passion about dentistry is to deliver optimum care that ensures a patient aesthetic, functional and reliable care. that would boost his/her self esteem and make them confident every time they smile. being able to provide such care makes me happy and makes me thrive to help more people.

Hometown:
Ashburn, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor of Science - Biology Major, Chemistry Minor, University Honors

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an artist who enjoys working with her hands to capture the beauty of life in a painting. I am also Afghan, bilingual, an avid reader, and enjoy traveling to experience other cultures. My perseverance stems from being raised by immigrant parents who came to America with nothing but hope.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to combine my love for art, using my hands to create, improving the lives of others, and my passion for science. Working as a dermatology medical assistant for two years before interning for a dentist allowed me to be exposed to both fields and find my perfect fit in dentistry.

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The Ohio State University–Business, Operations Management

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I started improv comedy during my undergraduate career and have always loved making people smile and laugh. I have performed in festivals in many cities including Chicago and New York. The ability to exercise your imagination with others, and with no limitations, is unique to improv comedy.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Being thrown over my handle bars and biting concrete as an eight-year old was a life changing moment. I was in and out of different specialists' offices for over a decade. My passion for dentistry comes from my desire to have an impact on patients lives that was similar to the impact of my dentists.

Hometown:
Herndon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–BS in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first-generation American from India and I graduated from Virginia Tech in 2017 with a major in Biology. I will be a D1 this summer and in my gap year, I worked as a dental assistant and traveled to Asia and Europe. My interests include skiing, reading, cooking, working out, and traveling.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I enjoy working with my hands and I enjoy working with people. Dentistry allows me to communicate with patients and tackle new and interesting challenges using my manual dexterity. To me, dentistry is a remarkable combination of science, art, and compassion.

Hometown:
Lorton, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a twin and I enjoy spending time with my friends and family. Family is very important to me; my parents are my role models. During my free time, I like to play basketball, exercise, try new restaurants, explore the outdoors, listen to music, and watch movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I enjoy the friendly relationships dentists form with their patients while serving to improve their health and well-being. Practicing dentistry also helps to satisfy my perfectionist ways with every prep, restoration, carving, and wax up.

Hometown:
Warrenville, Illinois

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Illinois at Chicago–Bachelor of Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been married for 13 years and am blessed with an 8-year-old son. One of my favorite pastimes is spending time with my family. I enjoy staying active, going to the gym, and playing soccer. I volunteer in my community and take part in charitable causes such as helping out in homeless shelters.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My fascination with dentistry was initiated with my early hands-on skills and strengthened by my passion for natural sciences. Shadowing a dentist increased my interest in dentistry. I was intrigued by the complexity dentistry offered and how it was a combination of science and art.

Hometown:
Charlotte, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Campbell University–Bachelor of Health Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a raising fourth year student. I was born in Seoul, Korea and studied in Nanjing, China for 6 years. I speak Korean and Mandarin Chinese fluently. I came to U.S in 2004 and served in the U.S Army for 4 years at Ft. Bragg, NC. I love to play table tennis.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My interest in dentistry was sparked while assisting oral surgeons as a surgical technician in the U.S Army. I respected and appreciated the precise and delicate process that impacted all facets of one’s well-being. Also dentistry is the perfect combination of clinical care while serving others.

Hometown:
Spanish Fork, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Utah Valley University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm married to an incredible artist and plan to have kids soon. We enjoy cooking, reading, music, and playing with our Great Pyrenees puppy. I'm a guitarist/bassist and love the Beatles, Rush, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. We can't wait to fish, hike, and camp in Virginia, and eat local food.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a unique career that allows great balance with family time, while also being able to directly provide an important service to one's community, as well as challenging oneself to learn and improve skills and abilities. Altogether, I expect it to be a career that is extremely fulfilling.

Hometown:
Herndon, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –Cognitive Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
While adjusting to dental school has been tough, I've been able to maintain my passion for music and the marching arts by curating playlists to use while I study and focus. In addition I have been able to keep up with sports by participating in pickup games and watching sports with fellow classmates

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate because each case I am presented with has a different set of solutions and things to consider. Being able to problem-solve and immediately implement these solutions to real people, and establish genuine connections with patients is the thing that makes dentistry so rewarding for me.

Hometown:
Ashburn, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biology and Cognitive Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Kazakhstan. I moved to the States at 9 years old with my mom. My mom is only eighteen years my senior and my best friend! My family is very close and spend a lot of our free time together. I enjoy drawing, painting, learning how to work my new film camera, and exploring RVA.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry combines my love for science and art and helps to better the lives of others. Every appointment allows a dentist to be challenged, think creatively and form a connection with a patient. I am excited to be the first dentist in my family and to help improve the quality of life of others!

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Pakistan and moved to Woodbridge, Virginia as a child where I have lived since. I have three sisters. I love traveling and learning about cultures. There's something special to see in every corner! I have played percussion for over a decade and am currently teaching myself the dhol.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My first MOM project in undergrad changed my negatively skewed view of dentistry forever. I was inspired by the gratitude of these patients and how much dentistry could change a life. It's a unique field that allows me to channel my creativity through my hands, continue learning, and improve lives.

Hometown:
Annandale, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University –Biological Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
First of all, I was born and raised by two Persian-American parents, so I have grown learning from two different cultures. My main hobbies include watching and playing sports, which mainly include football and basketball. I also love watching good movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry mainly because it is a great avenue for helping those in need. I have also extremely enjoyed hands-on activities throughout my life and years of schooling, and I feel that dentistry allows me to apply this passion to my desire to helping others.

Hometown:
Orem, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Exercise Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I recently celebrated my third wedding anniversary and my wife and I are expecting our first child on December 9th. We are very excited to start a family. I enjoy reading, cooking, traveling with friends and family, and finishing a busy day with a relaxing round of golf.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
It just fits for me. I enjoy learning about the various pathology that can happen and how to fix it. I find this profession really interesting and I enjoy providing this service for people because I feel like it has a huge impact on their quality of life. I'm grateful to be a part of that.

Hometown:
Charlotte, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Medical University of Banja Luka School of Dentistry–Doctor of Stomatology ( DDS)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an active, positive, and diligent mom of a 3 year old daughter who loves animals. We live in Richmond while my husband lives in NC. We enjoy outdoors activities, music, dance, painting, and sports. Most of all, we love to travel, interact with people, and help those in need.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My deep connection with dentistry initially arose from my experiences as a young child. I experienced first-hand challenges and hardships that come along with being edentulous. I would love nothing more than to help others with similar problems so they can experience improved health and confidence.

Hometown:
Olympia, Washington

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Washington–Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in an immigrant Romanian family and was always drawn to the arts as a child. In my undergraduate studies, I spent time taking courses in architecture and design, as well as photography and painting. In my free time, I go out to take photographs and paint watercolor scenes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The number one thing that keeps bringing me back is the close relationships we make with people in our community. That familiar smile a patient has after I call their name to see me is one that reminds me that what I am doing is important and worthwhile.

Hometown:
East Moriches, New York

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of South Carolina–Exercise Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Long Island, New York but lived in Arkansas and Virginia previously due to my father being in the Air Force. I love the outdoors whether it is hiking, camping, surfing, or playing sports. I have a strong relationship with my family and try to spend as much time as a I can with them.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Through shadowing, I got to see the endless possibilities dentistry has to offer and how rewarding this profession can be. It is amazing to not only be able to provide care to patients but also be able to restore aesthetic and functional aspects that can impact the patients life exponentially.

Hometown:
Vienna, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University– Biomedical Engineering (Minor: Biology, Mathematical Sciences, Chemistry)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Hi! I am an enthusiastic 33-year-old who has been waiting for the big question from my long term boyfriend, Guy who has been my guy for 6 years! We share a sweet rescue Pitbull mix named Cheesecake who we love to take on long hikes in Pocahontas Park.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I truly enjoy putting a smile on another's face. I didn't realize that I wanted to be a dentist until I started as a dental assistant and realized that dentistry encompasses every aspect of an ideal profession. It allows me to help people, work creatively with my hands, and solve complex issues.

Hometown:
Bountiful, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Neuroscience

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am married, hoping to start a family shortly. My southern belle wife, Alexandra, is part of the reason we are returning her home state of Virginia. My wife and I enjoy the outdoors, hiking and playing tennis. We are history buffs and love Virginia's rich culture. We hope to raise our family there.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry not only to provide important healthcare services but also to interact with people. I am hoping to find my niche in dentistry through working with those with special needs, specifically those with autism, to ensure proper and equal care for everyone.

Hometown:
Williamsburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an incoming first year dental student from Williamsburg, Virginia.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My love for dentistry is found in the stimulating thoughtfulness, yet demanding precision and skillful creativity of the procedures. This love is intensified by the ability to interact with and benefit patients in need. Each experience makes me increasingly excited and honored to be a DDS candidate.

Hometown:
Adeje, Other

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University Provo–Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I come from a small town in northern Italy called Torino. I spent 9 years in the Canary Islands in Spain as a teenager. I've been married for 1.5 years. I love music, dancing, cooking, playing soccer, reading, playing with our small dog, going to the beach, and walking around downtown Richmond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My younger brother broke a front tooth as a teenager that caused him a lot of shame and insecurities. I still remember how happy he was when he had it fixed several years later. I love helping people in need. I see dentistry as one of the noblest healing arts that is both challenging and exciting.

Hometown:
Oak Hill, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I recently graduated from college, where I played varsity and intramural sports, volunteered as a tutor off-campus, and served as the president of my sorority. In my free time, I enjoy working out, painting canvases, and spending time with my English Bulldog, Bennie.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is an avenue that allows me to express myself artistically and help others. The dental profession allows me to use my hand skills and practice medicine, combining two of my passions. Additionally, I cherish the relationships that dentistry allows me to form with patients and coworkers.

Hometown:
Manassas, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m 24 years old and I'm from the one and only Woodbridge, VA. I love trying out new things and experiencing all the world has to offer. In my free time, I enjoy being with my family/friends, traveling, and barbering (let me know if you want a haircut). Being there for others motivates me in life.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a colleague once told me, the mouth is a gateway to an individual’s overall health & dentists serve the gatekeeper role in maintaining a patient’s well-being. I want to be that gatekeeper. I'm passionate about welcoming the daily challenges that come with dentistry/serving disadvantaged patients.

Hometown:
Annandale , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a single 22-year-old, born in Northern VA but raised in a Bolivian home. Ever since I can remember I would visit Bolivia every summer. This helped me stay in touch with my roots and appreciate my family history. I enjoy dancing, traveling, and embracing the daring adventure life has to offer.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My life-changing mission trip to the Dominican Republic, taught me that oral hygiene is a significant factor in a person's overall health. I believe that a lot of people are unaware that daily oral care prevents deadly diseases. My mission to convey this message makes me passionate about this field.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biomedical Engineering, B.S.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a D3 from Richmond, VA. Outside of Dentistry, my greatest passion is encountering new experiences through travel and food (and traveling for food!) Most recently, I've been learning about the chemistry behind food. To me, it's a medium that transcends all barriers and brings people together!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When I think of Dentistry, I think of discovery. Whether it's uncovering a carious lesion, solving a puzzle to create a patient's treatment plan or revealing knowledge through research, I am constantly intrigued by how our discoveries spark change to deliver the best care to our patients.

Hometown:
flagstaff, Arizona

Undergraduate school/degree:
Manipal college of dental sciences–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up in a small town in Hyderabad in a close knit joint family, family has always been a big support system which I can rely on. I moved to America after marrying my husband who I meet during a holiday in India. I enjoy traveling and exploring new places, outdoor activities and painting.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To me dentistry seemed more of an avocation as it is a vocation. The ability of a dentist to make a profound difference in an individual's life and potentially prevent disease conditions is what makes me love the field.

Hometown:
Old Bridge, New Jersey

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I recently got married. My husband is a Resident Physician in U.S. My hobbies are to make candles, cakes and to volunteer in community groups. I love cooking and I am learning to cook Pakistani and Indian food. I had a ginger cat that unfortunately died recently and I miss him badly.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I inherited the skills of being scientific and creative from my parents. I feel this field has been attributed to me from the very beginning of my life. I was really impressed by my family dentist and I discovered dentistry is a combination of my passions of art and science.

Hometown:
Arlington, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Chemistry - Biochemistry concentration

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
While dentistry occupies most of my time, in my spare time, I like to travel. Usually I go to Bangladesh and UAE, but this year I went to UK. I truly enjoyed embracing the different cultures and meeting different people. Also, I love dancing which is usually my form of de-stressing when in school.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Initially when you are busy with didactic courses and lab, it is easy to forgot your passion for this field. However, when I started treating patients, it made me realize where my enthusiasm lies. It lies in the smiles of my patients knowing that they are grateful and satisfied with the care.

Hometown:
Reston, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Chemistry- Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Having played piano for twenty years, I was a piano teacher. I am a photographer, sculptor, comic artist, and wood-worker. I am interested in sustainability, chickens, farming, and aquaponics. I love to cook and maintain an active lifestyle via blues dancing, rock climbing, and hiking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry dovetails my passion for art, science, and helping others. I want to not only resolve a patient’s pain, but also to make aesthetic improvements and send patients home with happier smiles. Every patient fights their own inner battle. I want to be their trusted confidante.

Hometown:
Iowa City, Iowa

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I will describe myself as person with versatile skill set, integrity and willingness to go extra mile to make others comfortable. Both me and my husband love nature and outdoors. We both are involved in healthcare and giving back to our community is a big part of life.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love what I do. I am passionate about dentistry because it gives me an opportunity to make people healthy and give them the smiles they love. I feel blessed to be able to do so.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Pepperdine University–B.S. in Sports Medicine

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have just finished defending my master's in physiology and biophysics with a focus on ameliorating the bone loss associated with periodontal disease and I look forward to continuing that research throughout dental school. I workout and hike regularly, and I enjoy exploring the history of Richmond

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry provides an opportunity to impact communities that one might not ever encounter in their normal day-to-day activities. The artistry and skill that goes into crafting a patient's smile, while instilling habits that can benefit a patient's health throughout their lives are invaluable bonuses

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of South Florida–Major in Biomedical Sciences with a Minor in Biomedical Physics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a fitness fanatic dog mom native to Richmond that enjoys any and all outdoor adventures. Any free time I have that is not spent in the library is spent exploring and serving the city with my classmates, my family (who also reside in Richmond), my Psi O fraternity, and my 2-year-old husky.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The importance of oral health has personally impacted me since the time of my diagnosis as a Type I diabetic. My overall health's dependence on oral hygiene compliance has given me a passion to provide not only dental care, but also an education to diverse populations about the impact of oral health

Hometown:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Maryland –Bachelors of Science in General Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in the suburbs of Philadelphia. I enjoy spending my free time with family and friends. I love keeping both my mind and body active through going to museums, cooking plant based meals, needlepointing with my mom and pushing myself through a workout class. I also enjoy traveling the world.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry has played a meaningful role in my life from a young age, not only transforming my smile but also my self-esteem. I want to give this back to others. I love that dentistry will enable me to work closely with both my patients and colleagues and will continue to challenge me every day.

Hometown:
PROVO, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Utah Valley University–BS-Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My wife and I are expecting our 3rd child in July. My 4 yr old son and I enjoy playing sports together, my 3yr old daughter and I enjoy our daddy/daughter dates and my wife and I enjoy movie nights together. We love spending quality family time outdoors enjoying various activities that life offers.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to serve others and feel the joy that comes from helping others feel better about themselves while at the same time feeling self fulfillment from the work I did with my own hands. Dentistry pushes me to work hard so I can become a better healthcare provider for my patients.

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic and State University–Chemistry and Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised a small town kid in Lynchburg, VA and have been here my entire life. I grew up with a passion for people and sports, which have become my two main hobbies. I enjoy the next challenge in life and have always set myself to a high standard and pushed myself to achieve my goals.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I became passionate about dentistry due to the platform it provides to be a healthcare provider within a community and beyond. I appreciate the hands-on aspect of dentistry and the one on one patient care it offers. Dentistry is amazing in that it creates confident smiles while teaching oral health.

Hometown:
North Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
This coming fall, I am excited to announce that in addition to being a senior dental hygiene student, I will also be getting married in November! My fiance and I enjoy hiking, biking, long walks on the beach & playing with our 4-month old kitten Corbin. I also enjoy photography and calligraphy.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it enables me to serve my community by meeting needs. It gives me a platform to further discuss health and wellness with my patients. Dental health plays a role in overall health and I am very passionate about helping my patients make that connection.

Hometown:
same, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–Exercise Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My wife and I just had our 3rd anniversary. Our first child is going to be born in July and we are so excited to have a little girl. We both enjoy any activities outside like hiking, camping, and kayaking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love providing a unique service that people need. Dentistry gives me the opportunity to use a skill that few people have to change lives. I love working with people on a personal level as I treat them.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Florida–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Julie DeSimone. I have an identical twin sister and a loving and supporting family. My dog’s name is Bentley. He is an energetic and adorable four-year old Shih Tzu. I love to read, listen to music, watch movies, work out, and learn as much as I can about dentistry.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry grew from working in a general dentist’s office last year and in the VCU endodontic clinic this year. These positions enabled me to get experience and develop relationships with patients increasing my desire to learn the skills to help patients of my own in the future.

Hometown:
Norfolk, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Old Dominion University–Bachelor's Degree in Dental Hygiene

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in a small farming town. My husband has moved with me to follow my passion, however since attending VCU live 2 hours away. Besides visiting family and friends, we take in each moment we have together, whether it be at the beach or cruising around on his Harley!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
A career in dentistry is something I always wanted to pursue. Dentistry is constantly evolving, providing many opportunities to grow and develop throughout my career. Seeing firsthand how life-changing treatment can be continues to motivate me so one day I too will be able to give to those in need.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
James Madison University–Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a lifelong learner, leader, and NPR listener. 9-5 find me in a the classroom or the lab. Past 5, catch me sweating in the gym, tinkering with a project, or outdoors, reapplying my SPF 70. I can’t wait to start my dental education and make an impact at VCU, in Richmond, and beyond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the medium through which I can express who I am and what I care about. Dentistry gives me the opportunity to use my mind and cutting edge tools to restore a smile and self-confidence. No profession will allow me to connect with and serve others quite like dentistry.

Hometown:
Springfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Vietnam and moved to the United States when I was four years old. I come from a large family of women, who are my role models. Besides spending time with my family, I enjoy volunteering, hiking, and baking delicious treats.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to express my artistic ability, work with my hands, and improve my patient's quality of life. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to use my passion in dentistry to help others.

Hometown:
Reisterstown , Maryland

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love spending time with my friends, family, and my miniature dachshund, Mocha. I enjoy traveling and learning about different people and their cultures, and I would love to visit every state in the United States.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry offers me the opportunity to help others improve their sense of self-esteem in relation to their oral health and appearance. I will be able to use my interpersonal skills as well as my fine motor skills.I have been dental assisting for three years prior to school which affirmed my passion.

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an international dentist from Egypt. After earning my dental degree and completing 1 year of internship I decided to come to the U.S to further my education and pursue my dream. On my free time, I enjoy painting, watching documentaries, learning new languages and biking with my niece.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Since I am passionate about art and science, I found dentistry to be the perfect mix of both. I love how dentistry creates a gateway to positively impact other people’s lives whether by taking away their pain or creating beautiful smiles that last a lifetime.

Hometown:
Cedar City, Utah

Undergraduate school/degree:
Southern Utah University–B.S. Human Nutrition

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Trey Esplin. My wife Pilar and I have been married for 6 years now. We have a 3 year old boy and a baby girl joining our family in September. When I get a chance to escape, I enjoy Golfing, riding motorcycles with my family, and spending time with friends doing game nights and BBQ's.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
While in college I was able to work as a dental assistant. I found a lot of satisfaction being able to help people work through situations that were very painful and oft times anxiety stricken. That same passion gets me out of bed each day, motivating me to work hard for the benefit of my patients.

Hometown:
Berryville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Brigham Young University–BS Exercise Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Berryville, Virginia. My wife and I moved to Richmond for school and we love it. We enjoy taking walks, traveling, and playing games with friends. When my wife is at work, I spend my time drawing, cycling, reading, and writing stories--when I'm not at school, that is.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When I was in college, before I knew what I wanted to do with my life, I went with my dad on a trip to Central America to volunteer at a free dental clinic. Seeing the change that dentistry made in the lives of the people we served made me realize that this was a worthy and good profession.

Hometown:
Woodbridge, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Music Education

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Woodbridge, VA, but I love to travel to visit my family in Taiwan. My favorite hobbies are reading crime novels and working as a piano accompanist in the local community. I have a family of three cats named Oliver, Arthur, and Mogly.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is an amazing balance between science and artistry. Growing up, it was a struggle for my parents to receive the dental care that was necessary due to high costs and limited financial resources. My wish is to give back to the community and to my family by serving them through dentistry.

Hometown:
Palm Harbor, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Florida–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I love the beach, especially reading on the beach and beach naps. I also love traveling. My favorite place I have visited is Ireland. One of the most exciting things I have done is paraglide in Interlaken, Switzerland. I also really enjoy spending time with my family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows for innovative treatment solutions. It takes a special kind of person to feel excitement over teeth, but dentistry is more than just teeth. I love that dentistry allows me to care for the entire person, while seeing their joy when they love their new smile.

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Christopher Newport University–Bachelors of Science in Business Administration

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
When my midwife wife, Rebecca, is not delivering babies, and I am not studying, we take our two boys on adventures to the library, parks, and museums. We enjoy dance parties and singing songs (most recent: Oompa Loompa). When kids-free, we like have the early bird dinner and sleep-in past 7 am.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I greatly enjoy getting to know my patients and making them feel at ease in the dental chair, especially if they have "white coat syndrome". More importantly, I like how dentistry challenges me to push myself harder, to try different approaches and to keep learning.

Hometown:
Williamsburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Military Institute; Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelors of Art in International Studies; Health Sciences Post Baccalaureate Certificate

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been married for ten years to my extremely supportive wife. We have four children ages seven, five, three, and one. I served a total of ten years in the Marine Corps prior to dental school. In addition to activities with my family, I enjoy cycling, running, hiking, hunting, and fishing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I want to spend the remainder of my life working with my hands to meet people’s physical needs while also improving their confidence and overall quality of life. I am passionate about dentistry because it is a career uniquely suited to my gifts and vision for a life of service.

Hometown:
Grayson, Georgia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Georgia–Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have been married for three years to my high school sweetheart and have a dog named Reese. I enjoy hanging out with my classmates, playing intramural sports, and watching college football. I'm not ashamed to ask for help, and I handle criticism well.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it is one of the few jobs that is not monotonous. Every patient is unique, and every procedure brings on a new challenge. Dentistry gives me a sense of fulfillment every day. I am honored to be joining such a respected profession.

Hometown:
Chesterfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Golf, tennis, running, softball, and weightlifting are how I stay active. I also prioritize my family; living away from home makes it a challenge to see them often, but I make it a point to have weekly dinners with them. Lastly, I enjoy cooking and love new cuisines and filling my sweet tooth.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to have an immediate impact to my patients oral health needs while fulfilling my selfish desires to have a career in which I can cast a wide net, professionally to keep myself learning, engaged, and challenged for the length of my career. I will never be bored in my practice.

Hometown:
SUNRISE, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
Warner University–B.A. in Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Colombia and moved to the United States at the age of 6, where I began to play tennis with my father who is a coach. My boyfriend and I have a Samoyed dog that we like to take on long walks and hikes when we can. I also enjoy going to the beach and watching movies.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a meticulous art that allows me to use my hands to create the best work that I can. It lets me connect with different people throughout life while helping them gain confidence in the process of maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile.

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a vibrant Indian/ Sikh girl who loves adventure. I want to travel to every continent to appreciate cultures as diverse as my own. I engage in fitness, cooking, and photography to ultimately gain body and soul alignment. Later in life I hope to have a family and a life blooming with creativity.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry combines all aspects of a life I want to create including scientifically enhancing quality of life, being a constant learner, owning my own business, having a creative and aesthetic outlet, and being someone the community trusts and looks up to.

Hometown:
Charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The University of Virginia–Bachelor of Arts Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am getting married this summer to my fiance MaryClaire after five years of dating. I enjoy performing music, singing and playing various instruments. I also enjoy theatre and musical theatre, intramural basketball and football, and playing with our rescue dog Sadie.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a fantastic profession where you can be artistic and scientific at the same time. It allows me to solve health care problems with creative ways and give people relief of their pain or self consciousness. I can know that my patients are getting something positive after every visit.

Hometown:
Springfield, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia CommonWealth University–Small Business Management / Entrepreneurship

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an older child with a brother 2 years younger than me. I love to travel, cook/eat, and play sports. I studied abroad in Madrid and travelled to 8 countries with hopes to see many more. I love Marvel movies and always on a mission to improve myself physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to integrate my passions for both business and health. I can see the facets of dentistry that fuel my interests from creating deeper personal relationships with patients to finessing the finer details of a crown to renew a smile; a manifestation of happiness that connects us.

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
College of William and Mary–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in an extremely close knit family with a strong cultural background. They have inspired me to give back to others and make a positive impact on the world. Outside of that, I love traveling to new places, experiencing different cultures and foods, and being outdoors.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I grew up hearing my dad's fascinating and inspiring stories about his patients and the experience of being a dentist. I realized early on that these patient experiences were incredibly rewarding. This, along with the ability to be creative and solve problems, encompasses what I want in a career.

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Hey! My name is Daniel Halse, but I go by Joey. I graduated from Virginia Tech and after VCU I will be serving in the US Air Force. In my spare moments away from dental school I enjoy spending time with friends, walking down by the river, and eating at different places around the city.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I started the process of getting braces in the third grade, and wore those braces all the way through my senior year of high school. My smile is now one of my favorite parts about myself and completely changed my self confidence. The ability to help others find their smiles gives me my passion.

Hometown:
Yorktown, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Bachelor of Arts Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a Korean American incoming D1 student from Yorktown, Virginia. I love travelling and going on mission trips whenever I can. Hiking is a new passion that I discovered last year at the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park. I really hope to tackle more national parks in the future!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Witnessing oral health in impoverished places around the world made me value dentistry's importance to life. Dentistry is also engaging and fun! It requires cleverness and thinking outside of the box. I love how there are multiple different ways that one can MacGyver dental problems.

Hometown:
Norfolk, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill–Environmental Health Sciences (Bachelors of Science in Public Health)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am an incoming D1 from Norfolk, VA. I am a mixed-Asian American, and this past year I spent my senior year exploring my mixed-Chinese identity in a club called MASH (Mixed Asian Student Heritage Club). In my free time I enjoy drawing, talking with friends over good coffee, and trying new foods.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've always wanted to enter a profession that improves the health of others. In dentistry, I've found even more: the ability to impact a patient's confidence by enhancing their smile, to grow life-long relationships, and to serve the greater community through free clinics and community empowerment.

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Concentration in Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a mother of two children, one beagle, and a rabbit. I enjoy fostering animals and making jewelry. Excited about nature, I joined one of the few minority garden clubs in the region two years ago. In 2016, I participated in a VMFA event, displaying my depiction of art with my flower creation.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
One piece of ice caused me to fall from by bike and land on the concrete at a young age. I shifted my teeth and fractured my jawbone. I was teased by my peers, but I felt this experience was no accident. My desire became to help others overcome insecurities and promote self-esteem through dentistry.

Hometown:
Lynchburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My family is awesome so when I'm not hanging out with them and our fur babies, I enjoy hiking, hanging out by the river and catching up on all of my netflix shows. I love swimming, playing volleyball and attempting to play tennis and these sports have helped me create strong friendships in our class

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've always been interested in healthcare but the thing I love most about dentistry is the immediate treatment given in many cases. I've seen peoples' lives change after leaving the dental office ranging from eliminating pain or giving them confidence in themselves; it's an amazing thing to witness.

Hometown:
Danville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–BS Biological Sciences

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 2018 graduate of Virginia Tech. I enjoy weight lifting, health and nutrition and am an animal lover. I am the human of three dogs.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I view dentistry as a means of improving the lives of others. In my home community there are many residents who do not receive adequate oral health care. Dentistry will allow me to improve health and restore confidence in these patients.

Hometown:
chester, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Human Nutrition, Food, and Exercise

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a 22 year old proud Virginia Tech alumnus from Richmond, VA. In my free time I like to spend time with family, play basketball, practice piano, and volunteer for my local community. I enjoyed being active in multiple student organizations and intramural sports during my time at Virginia Tech.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I'm incredibly fortunate that my passion for practicing dentistry is coming into fruition. One of the best things about entering a field focused on serving others is the cyclical nature of service, I'm appreciative to receive the support of those who came before me, and know I will reciprocate.

Hometown:
Clover, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Lynchburg College–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm Josh Irby and I am 22 years old. My hobbies include fishing, kayaking, golf, tennis, and just about anything that I can be active in. I like to lend a helping hand to friends, family, and my community when possible.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because I want to give back to my community that has supported me throughout life. I know several people travel to get care due to the lack of dentists that are accepting new patience's. Since I was a kid I wanted to make dentistry as painless as possible for people.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

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