Reflections

Hometown:
Arlington, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
From a young age, I have always wanted to try a little bit of everything, whether it be a new activity or a new place. In my free time, I love to explore Richmond, as it is a vibrant city full of personality. I also like to read fiction novels, exercise, and spend time with family outside of school.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
A few years ago, I volunteered on a dental mission trip that served rural communities in Vietnam. This experience showed me how access to dental care and education on oral health is just as impactful as the treatment itself. I want to help provide care and education to any and all communities.

Hometown:
Henrico, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Psychology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My family immigrated to the United States from South Korea when I was two years old. I grew up in Richmond, Virginia and I attribute a majority of my passions and hobbies to the culture surrounding Richmond, which include, exploring restaurants, enjoying the outdoors, and appreciating art.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Growing up in an immigrant family constantly reminded me that disparities in healthcare target marginalized groups. Becoming a dentist, and earning the ability to advocate and serve underrepresented communities gives me hope that I can reduce the burden of dental issues for families like mine.

Hometown:
Broad Run, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I ride my bike 3 miles to school each day. It began as my way to help save the planet and now it's my way of life. Through the pandemic it has been a great way to clear my head and connect with people outdoors. I’ve stayed sane by taking my dog on long rides in the mountains every weekend I could.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
In high school, I shadowed my local dentist. Accompanying him to the local free clinic, I witnessed the true service that dentistry brings to a community. Dentistry builds connections, from the people in my class to the people in my future home. I see it as something that will bring people together.

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:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–B.S Biology with minor in Chemistry and B.S in General Science HPPS

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
First generation European immigrant. Moved to USA to live the American Dream. Happy to be established in Virginia and soon to become an American Citizen. I am family oriented and passionate about culture and languages. Speak French, English and Spanish and love to treat patients from all backgrounds

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I see joy through my work. I love helping people gain confidence through improving their smile. Love to guide and give patients good oral health and preserve integrity of oral and maxillofacial system. Love to apply all my knowledge and let my hands work and make miracles for some patients.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I believe in addition to a kind heart, it is important for your work to be a reflection of your character. If your work is always the best that it can be, then the quality of your work will be known over its quantity. I hope to be able to use my leadership experiences to function as a mentor

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The past 2 years, I have been a co-researcher in a study that seeks to quantify the effect of mesenchymal stem cell efficacy on inducing bone regeneration with micro-CT analysis. I intend to lead study groups and participate in clinical trials that continually propel the field toward innovation

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in South Africa and moved to the US when I was 8. My family and I received our US citizenship just over a year ago. Some of my favorite things to do are travel, camp with my family, cook, explore Richmond, play tennis, and help my parents with their family farm whenever I am home.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry involves life-long learning, compassion, and fulfillment from helping others. It’s not all about pulling teeth and drilling. It’s about caring for your patients, and being compassionate and understanding of their nerves and anxieties.