Reflections

Hometown:
Ashburn, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology, Math Minor

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a rising D4 who has lived in Richmond for quite some time now – I went to VCU for undergrad where I majored in Biology and minored in Math. I love all kinds of animals and I am mom to a former shelter cat, Momo. In my free time I like to rock climb and spend time outdoors.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is one of the only primary care specialties that has an intimate hands-on component. I find the educating aspect of dentistry really rewarding – not everyone realizes cavities are 100% preventable.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Peru and speak Spanish. My hobbies include dancing, reading and hiking with my husband and chocolate lab puppy.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Although Latinos are a growing ethnic minority group in the United States, we are underrepresented in the dental profession. With a more diverse dental workforce, the cultural and communication barriers between patients and their providers can be reduced, thus increasing access to quality dentalcare

Hometown:
Glen Allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia –Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up in Richmond, have two younger brothers, a goldendoodle named Bentley, and I graduated from UVA. I enjoy playing the piano, reading, long walks, and going to baseball games. I love spending time with my family and friends, especially at the beach.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I value a career that allows me to build relationships with patients, work daily with my hands, and provide trusting care to the community. I may not be able to prevent a patient’s fear of the dentist, but I have a passion to show love through my honesty, dedication, and patience as a dentist.

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am currently a fourth year dental student enjoying life in Richmond. I enjoy spending time with my classmates. Most of all, I value every moment spent with my family, my biggest support system. We have overcome many obstacles after immigrating from Colombia, and I owe my success to my parents.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is the cross-section of my passions for healthcare, ethics, and art. The attention to intricate detail in dentistry can lead to an immense improvement of quality of life to a patient. Its universal impact has lasting effects in people beyond the dental chair.

Hometown:
Leesburg, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 28 years old. I moved to America from Pakistan at 16. I am fluent in Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi and English. I enjoy cooking and exploring new places to eat. I also like hiking and running. I would like to specialize in pediatric dentistry after dental school.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is exciting because you get to not only alleviate pain and aesthetically restore dentition but also detect life threatening illnesses simply by examining a patient’s oral health. Moreover, it gives you the opportunity to develop lifelong relationships with your patients.