Reflections

Hometown:
Roanoke, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
University of Virginia–Cognitive Science- concentrations in Neuroscience and Linguistics

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I have always been infatuated with the arts. In my free time, I do Bharatnatyam (Indian dance), play the drums, paint, bake, and hike with my dog. I am currently working as a dental assistant which has helped me connect with my community while gaining skills to further my dental education.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry interlaces skills from art, science, and engineering into one all-encompassing career that has endless rewards. Dentistry has the power to make one feel secure and confident in their overall self-image, providing personal fulfillment in helping others throughout the course of their lives.

Hometown:
Reston, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born and raised in Fairfax County, Virginia, and I graduated from the University of Virginia in 2020, majoring in biology and minoring in anthropology. In my free time, I enjoy hiking local trails, going on road trips, and exploring the Richmond food and restaurant scene.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Dentistry allows me provide essential and meaningful care to patients; I can employ the work of my hands to empower others, and, through honest and compassionate interactions, I can develop strong patient relationships. These attributes of the field inspire my passion for dentistry.

Hometown:
Ashburn, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
George Mason University–Biology (Bachelor)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I would describe myself as family-oriented and dedicated to helping others. I spend a lot of my free time with my family, especially my niece and two nephews. Also, I have served my community as a first responder for over 6 years; a role I have found to be very rewarding and unique.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Recently, we learned tooth restorations using composite. The craftsmanship that this requires reinforced my passion for dentistry as this career bridges my artistic desires with my interest in helping others in a healthcare setting.

Hometown:
Glen allen, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Isfahan University of Technology–Material Science and Engineering

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I was born in Iran and immigrated to united states 13 years ago. I studied engineering and worked as a faculty member before starting dental school. I am married to my supportive husband. Our hobbies are baking and shopping. I also enjoy spending time with my friends.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Comparing dentistry to my background, engineering, will express my passion. Dentistry is a lifetime commitment to provide care that improves mental and physical aspect of people’s life. I look forward to using my art and science background in maintaining dental health in underserved population.

Hometown:
Fairfax, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am newly married, a DIY enthusiast, pretend movie critic, and always love a good board game (I probably have at least 50 in my collection.) Every now and then I go on hikes with my Siberian Husky and Golden Doodle and am looking forward to traveling with the Army in the future as a general dentist

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I’ve seen the same dentist for 20+ years and love the relationship building aspect. You have the ability to create strong bonds with patients, making them excited about oral health; a chance to ease pain, create smiles, and dedicate time to free clinics all while being challenged by complex cases.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Oral Roberts University–Theology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am a first generation, second career student. I worked as a youth minister then as a building contractor then later for NC Missions of Mercy and a private practice Oral Surgery office while getting my dental prerequisites.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
It is the confluence of all of the skills that I spent the first 35 years of my life honing - problem solving, art, construction, engineering- all tied together with trust and empathy. Growing up in a rural town with little geographic and financial access to care I identify with many of my patients

Hometown:
Virginia Beach, Virginia

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

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am currently a third year dental student enjoying life in Richmond. I enjoy my social life with my close-knit classmates, spending time outdoors around the river, and focusing on my overall health. Most of all, I value every moment spent with my family, my biggest support system.

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 on people beyond the dental chair.

Hometown:
Toano, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Military Institute; Virginia Commonwealth University–B.A. International Studies (VMI); Health Sciences Certificate (VCU)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am married and the father of four children ages six, four, two, and two months. I’ve been privileged to serve a total of 10 years in the Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserves and to have led Marines on three deployments including a tour in Afghanistan. I enjoy cycling, running, and hunting.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
Ever since my first day of shadowing, I’ve been in awe of what a dentist can do using his hands and his problem solving skills. I want to spend the rest of my life serving others by alleviating their pain, restoring proper oral function, and rebuilding their confidence.

Hometown:
Richmond, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
Virginia Commonwealth University–Chemistry(Biochemistry)

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am originally from Ghana but I consider Virginia as my second home since my wife and son were born here. After college I taught high school Science at Grace Christian School and also volunteered at Henrico County Public School. I enjoy reading and playing soccer with my son at my leisure time.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
I am really passionate about organized dentistry because of its flexibility and also the fact that one can form a long term relationship with members of their community. Dentist use their talent help their patient express their inner joy by putting a smile on their face.

Hometown:
Charlottesville, Virginia

Undergraduate school/degree:
The College of William & Mary–Biology

Tell us a little bit about yourself:
I am charismatic, passionate, and exuberant. I enjoy indoor gardening, collecting maps, and singing along to the radio. I am going to be a general dentist with a focus on special needs patients. I like to travel and visit my parents in Charlottesville and my twin brother in Roanoke.

Why are you passionate about dentistry?
When I was 11, I knocked out two of my teeth playing flashlight tag. My mom brought me to our dentist in the middle of the night, and he took care of me. Ever since that night, I have wanted to become a dentist in order to help someone in the same way and care for my patients like they are family.