Reflections

Hometown:
Durham, North Carolina

Undergraduate school/degree:
Meredith College–B.S. Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I moved to the US by myself 6 years ago to pursue higher education. Four years later, I graduated top of my class from Meredith College in NC in 2017. In two years, I will be the first dentist in my family. I enjoy trying new recipes from around the world, currently Moroccan dishes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a field where I am able to provide a service while using creativity and art. Growing up, I was a part of a community where visiting the dentist was considered a luxury. I believe that needs to change. I am passionate about increasing access to dental care and making it more accessible.

Hometown:
Richmond , Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Hello, I am Hanan Naser, I come from a family of 7 siblings and I am the youngest out of 8! I am originally from Ethiopia, but I came to the US at age 10. I truly enjoy spending time with family as I have a dozen nieces and nephews! I love spending time and making new and ever lasting memories.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a field where you get to witness patients' satisfaction and joy after the work you have done. Completing my third year, I understand more the satisfaction and reward that comes with being a dentist. It is truly such a great feeling being able to uplift and make someone smile.

Hometown:
Washington, District of Columbia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Temple University–Bachelor of Science

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Hello , I am the youngest of 8 siblings. What I enjoy the most is spending time with my big family (I have a dozen nieces and nephews as well). I feel like this closeness to my family has shaped me to be one with empathy for others and see others in a light that brings out the best in everyone.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a rewarding profession in which everyday there is a chance to make a difference in an individual. Seeing the smile and the satisfaction in patients is truly inspiring and pushes you to be the best provider. I look forward everyday to treating and making an impact in someone's life.

Hometown:
Harare, Other

Undergraduate school/degree:
Indiana University South Bend–General studies

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am the annoying only sister to my four brothers. I have 3 nephews and 1 niece who i get to spend time with on facetime video chat since there are oceans away in Zimbabwe. I like running and weight lifting. I also like spending time with friends, cooking and sharing pintrest recipes.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it combines patient care and the art of dental work. I got to care for people and interact with them as a nurse but dentistry gives me the patient care part and i get to make teeth beautiful again. I like seeing people get their confidence back.

Hometown:
Rocky Mount, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am from a rural area but really love the city! I enjoy spending time with family, friends, exploring RVA, restaurants and cultural events. Being of Hispanic heritage, I have enjoyed many different cultural events throughout the city. Painting, movies and traveling satisfy any spare time I have.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I love that dentistry is based in medical science, but allows me to work with my hands and use my artistic side. I enjoy a patient coming in with many concerns and sorting through possible treatment options, putting the puzzle pieces together.