Reflections

Hometown:
Stafford, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm a first-generation Haitian immigrant who is newly graduated, newly engaged, and preparing to move to a new city and begin my education for the career of my dreams. Amid all these welcomed changes, I remain grounded by keeping up with my hobbies: pyrography, nail art, and being with loved ones.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The way dentistry can be used as a tool to serve one's community is where my passion for the field lies. I hold the value that one's character is the sum of many parts originating from their community, and serving my community through dentistry has become one way to show gratitude for this.

Hometown:
Stafford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Bachelor's in Biology with Minor in Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am more than just a VCU dental student. I am also a cat dad, loving fiancée, and sports fanatic. A few of my favorite leisure activities include: traveling both inside and outside of the states, exploring new places to eat, and spending time with loved ones.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
As a child, I endured numerous oral surgeries, allowing me the opportunity to meet a multitude of specialists in the field of Dentistry. As all of my specialists have done for me, I hope to forge lifelong relationships with my patients that transcend beyond the boundaries of an office.

Hometown:
Ruther Glen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Tech–Chemical Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I live in Caroline County with my wife, two dogs, and cat. In my free time I enjoy running, playing games, playing the guitar, and throwing anything that can be chased for my dogs. I started out as a chemical engineer, but have been happiest since beginning my career change to dentistry!

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
General practice is an outlet for almost all of my career passions: learning new things, working with my hands, problem solving, and having a positive impact on those around me. I am also interested in academic dentistry as an opportunity to give back through my favorite activity: teaching.

Hometown:
Stafford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Mary Washington –Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up in a military family and living in Virginia, Alabama, Germany, and Korea presented me with unique situations that made me the person I am today. I am a researcher and a Virginian at heart. I love discovering solutions to complex problems, serving the community, my dog, and fishing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry started volunteering as a dental assistant at a free clinic. Studying at VCU, my passion has grown to wanting to be an oral surgeon. I want to carry out and deliver complex surgical care for patients.

Hometown:
Stafford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Mary Washington, VCU –Chemistry BS. Microbiology and Immunology MS.

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up in a military family and living in Virginia, Alabama, Germany, and Korea presented me with unique situations that made me the person I am today. I am a researcher and a Virginian at heart. I love discovering solutions to complex problems, serving the community, my dog, and fishing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry started by volunteering as a dental assistant at a free clinic. While studying at VCU, my passion has grown from everything I have learned and the patients I helped treat. The ability to help those in need and in pain has confirmed my passion for dentistry.

Hometown:
Stafford, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Mary Washington–Chemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Growing up in a military family and living in Virginia, Alabama, Germany, and Korea presented me with unique situations that made me the person I am today. I am a researcher and a Virginian at heart. I love discovering solutions to complex problems, serving the community, my dog, and fishing.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
My passion for dentistry started by volunteering as a dental assistant at a free clinic. While studying at UMW I founded an organization to support Operation Smile. The ability to help those in need and in pain led me to be passionate about dentistry.

Hometown:
Midlothian, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
VCU–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am single; I was born in Michigan but lived most of my life in Richmond, VA. I am an adventurous eater and love trying out new foods. During my spare time, I like sight seeing and people watching. I hope to one day learn how to knit and carve furniture.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is very dynamic. Next week will be my first week seeing patients full time. I am very excited and nervous. I also feel the weight of professionalism. As I made phone calls to my patients today, it gave a warm feeling inside that patients are willing to give me their time and resources.

Hometown:
Falls Church, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University–B.S. Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have a younger sister Tracy, whose finishing her first year in college. We were both raised by my mother, Binh Nguyen. I am a big sports fan; I love to watch and play football and tennis. I am also passionate in music, as I like to DJ for events and parties whenever I get the chance.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I decided to pursue a career in dentistry was because of the familial relationship the dentist’s develop with their patients. It’s this one on one relationship and rapport between a dentist and a patient that enticed me. Dentistry is based on such a foundation that I hold dear.

Hometown:
Alexandria, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Alexandria, VA. I received my B.S. from VA Tech in 2012. I love to work with my hands and have recently built a book shelf, corn hole boards, and a dining room table. I also love gardening and cooking and preserving food with home grown vegetables.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am passionate about dentistry because it is always evolving and will continue to challenge me throughout my career. Dentistry is based around people, their well-being, and their needs. I am extremely excited to serve my patients.