1.     What drew you to dentistry?

I feel that it’s a uniquely structured health care profession that offers a desirable mix of service to others, autonomy of practice, choice of specialization, [something that] is procedurally based and requires critical thinking.   

2.     What makes you excited to go to school each day?

My classmates and instructors who inspire me with their dedication to evidence-based, patient-centered care.

3.     In 10 years, the biggest change about dental education (or dentistry) will be …

The biggest change is the rapid appearance of new technologies that have the potential to help our patients, but there’s also a lack of experienced instruction and research on those technologies as well as an excess of choices.

4.     If you could change one thing about dental education (or dentistry) with a snap of your fingers, what would that be?

I would make attending dental school free.

5.     After you graduate dental school, what’s next for you? Joining a private practice? An advanced degree program?

I will be continuing my education by attending a four-year Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery residency.

6.     Who is your go-to person when you need advice?

I usually call my dad to talk through problems.

7.     Dogs or cats—and why?

Dogs—I have a 5-year-old rescue named Olive who lights up my life!

8.     What do you look forward to outside of school?

I like to play pickleball, ski, hike and spend time with my friends.    

9.     What’s something you think you’ll never understand?

What goes on inside my dog’s head; I’d love to know her thoughts.

10.  What’s your favorite TV show—and why?

Fargo. I love the characters and the setting. (The accents are accurate.)