Growing up, I never had a beautiful smile. In fact, I had to undergo three oral surgeries and endure three years of braces with countless regular dentist appointments in between to finally have the “perfect” smile. I was fortunate enough to come from a family who could afford giving this opportunity to me. While my journey was painful and expensive, I have never been more confident or happier about my smile. I have found that smiling is contagious and that it is nearly
impossible to not smile back at someone. Knowing that one small feature can bring on a new sense of self-confidence made me realize that when I “grow up”, I want to be involved in dentistry so that I can help people feel their best.

Since I was fourteen years old, I’ve thought about attending Old Dominion University because Jill, my dental hygienist, did. Her dedication, hard effort, and job satisfaction have always been admirable to me. I looked into every dentistry curriculum ODU offered right away and quickly became enamored with the Dental Hygiene program. I was eager to start college because of their program’s professionalism and potential. When I did eventually visit ODU, I realized it was the right place for me because of the outstanding curriculum and campus culture.

I’m a sophomore at ODU right now, double majoring in public health and dental hygiene.I enjoy participating in both curricula and receiving a well-rounded education. It has introduced me to a variety of biology and academic interests. I recently submitted my application for admission to the Dental Hygiene programs at ODU and VCU. I should receive word in early April on my acceptance into the schools. I’ve been preparing for this—despite the fact that it’s stressful—for years by volunteering at dentistry offices, earning certain certifications, and just establishing relationships with ODU academics and staff. Even though I might not be accepted into the dental hygiene programs, I have been working toward my public health degree to make sure I won’t miss my graduation deadline in 2026. I will be able to complete all of the requirements for dental school or other graduate programs with my degree in public health.

If I decide to go to dental school after my degree in either Dental Hygiene or Public Health, I will apply to largely east coast schools to stay closer to home. The University of Michigan School of Dentistry, VCU School of Dentistry, and Adams School of Dentistry at UNC Chapel Hill are my top three dental schools. These universities are all highly regarded for their rigorous curricula and high success rates.

The dental field is a fast paced environment that I yearn for. The occupation itself is so diverse with so many different areas to specialize in. Wherever dentistry takes me, I hope to help ease other’s fears and teach them about proper dental health and oral hygiene. I have always been fascinated by dentistry, from the little child who feared the dentist to the teenager who aspired to have the ideal smile to the young adult who wants to assist in patient care. Though challenges are inevitable, I want to have a fulfilling career where I can help people with their confidence and health, and where I can continue to learn and thrive.