Can you tell us about your path to dentistry school?
My path to dentistry was shaped by both personal experience and cultural identity. Growing up in a low-income, immigrant household, I understood early on what it meant to live without dental insurance. One of my earliest memories was losing one of my baby teeth, only to learn from my mother that we couldn’t afford dental care. That moment stayed with me. It became a turning point that led to a deep sense of responsibility for my own oral health—and ultimately, a desire to care for others. In high school, I had the opportunity to shadow a dentist who was my friend’s uncle and that experience sparked my interest about having a future in dentistry. Over the years, I immersed myself in community service, shadowed various dentists, and built a clear vision of how I could one day give back to communities like mine.
What inspired you to become a Dentist?
My inspiration comes from both personal hardship and a commitment to health equity. As a child, I rarely visited the dentist due to a lack of dental insurance, but I knew that others were going through the same experience. My father’s dedication to helping others through his small business inspired me to think about how I might make a difference too. Shadowing in high school and discovering my passion for helping people made me realize that I could do the same through dentistry. Volunteering confirmed that my passion lies in caring for people and improving their quality of life. Seeing Dr. Koh—a dentist who serves his Korean community in their native language, opened my eyes to the power of representation and cultural competence in healthcare. I hope to offer that same sense of trust and familiarity to Hispanic communities.
How do you manage stress during the DDS program?
I manage stress by doing physical activities. I like to exercise in the mornings before class, which helps me stay energized throughout the day. Golfing and running have both been important parts of my life, offering me time to relax and enjoy my time where I can recharge and temporarily step away from dental school. I would also say that hanging out with friends after a stressful week is fun.
What do you wish you’d known as an undergraduate?
I wish I had known that it’s okay to ask for help and that success doesn’t follow a straight path. As a first-generation college student, I often felt like I had to figure everything out on my own. Now I understand how important mentorship, resources, and community truly are. Putting yourself out there and asking for help could have made the journey a little less difficult. Another thing I wish I had known is the timing of dental school. Once I learned about the dental school cycle, such as interview dates and application deadlines. I realized that applying during my senior year of undergrad would have allowed me to start dental school right after graduation.
What do you enjoy most about being an HCOP Ambassador?
Being an HCOP Ambassador allows me to lift others up while staying true to my roots. I love sharing my journey with students who may not see themselves represented in healthcare. It’s fulfilling to encourage others, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, and help them envision a future they didn’t think was possible. Empowering others and giving them tools I once lacked is one of the most rewarding parts of this role.