Reflections

Hometown:
Spotsylvania, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Global Studies- Public Health

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I grew up on a farm in rural Virginia with my three siblings and my parents. Family is extremely important to me and I wouldn’t be where I am without their unwavering support. In my free time, I like to go on runs, hot yoga classes, hiking, and cooking.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I've had my fair share of dental experiences ranging from simple restorations to abscessed teeth. As a result of my personal experiences, I know the pain patients are experiencing and I love being able to help relieve patient's pain and also comfort them during their dental appointment.

Hometown:
Saint Petersburg, Florida

Undergraduate school/degree:
–

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
As a dual citizen of the United States and Poland, I have come to enjoy different cultural experiences. Having spent much of my childhood back in Poland, I watched my family live off their land. This sparked my interest in gardening and cooking which I have brought with me to Richmond.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Coming from my background and being a first generation graduate student I value education; it is a privilege, especially in the field of dentistry. Not only did my interest first stem from my devotion to science and service, but also how dentistry is an interplay of both.

Hometown:
Dallas, Texas

Undergraduate school/degree:
Washington and Lee University–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I’m an extremely positive and happy person, and you will never catch me not smiling! When I’m not at school, I’m usually enjoying quality time with my family, friends, or my dog, Stella. I believe in the power of small random acts of kindness, and I am the happiest when I can bring joy to others.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
The profession of dentistry offers a relationship with patients that is unique in comparison to other healthcare fields. Dentistry has allowed me to apply my passions for service, science, artistry, and innovation while also providing avenues to make an impact at the individual and community level.

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:
Byron , Minnesota

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of St. Thomas –Environmental Science with an emphasis in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I'm from a rural town in Minnesota. I attended undergrad in St. Paul, then pursued a Masters degree in Biomedical Science in FL. My hobbies include reading, cooking, fishing, drawing, golfing, lifting, hiking and camping, archery, and carpentry. During break I drive back to see my family.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me to achieve my goals of helping people directly, working with my hands, being able to be creative and have autonomy, and being able to have a comfortable lifestyle and support a family.

Hometown:
Chesapeake, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Old Dominion University–Bachelor of Science in Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am 24 years old from Chesapeake, Virginia. Throughout undergrad, I worked at a local Chick-fil-A on the leadership team and volunteered regularly with my church. I have recently reignited my passion for long distance running and will be participating in several races over the next few months.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry is a truly a profession that is both artistic and altruistic. I love being able to put such an incredible skill set to use to benefit the oral health of my patients while simultaneously building relationships and getting to know them on a personal level.

Hometown:
Chesapeake, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Old Dominion University–Dental Hygiene and Biochemistry

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I recently married the love of my life, the new Mrs. Chelsea Barrick. We are so excited to start this next chapter of our life together and currently looking forward to getting a labradoodle puppy sometime this summer. Outside of dental school we enjoy any activities that keep us outdoors.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I chose to pursue a career in dentistry because I have a passion of working with people every day. I am so excited to be a third year student and leave being the manikin and simulation lab. I look forward to forging new relationships with my patients and continuing to improve my interpersonal skills

Hometown:
Suffolk, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Wake Forest University–B.S. and Honors in Health and Exercise Science (major) with Biology and Chemistry (minors)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Stated simply, I am a doer, a 'mover and a shaker' if you will. Born and raised in Suffolk Virginia and the youngest of three children, I am an avid equestrian and enjoy painting, paddleboarding, running, writing, cooking, and gardening and seek to engage and invest in all of life's experiences.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
To be entrusted with the care of one's fellow man is a great honor supported by the finesse of trust building between patient and provider. This richness to invest in and learn from the trust of one's patients is the driving force behind my commitment to excellence for the benefit of the profession.