Where are you from?
Inwood, WV
Why did you choose dental school, and why at WVU?
I have always wanted to be a health professional and also had a strong call to serve in the armed forces. In undergrad I went to a pre-dental club meeting where recruiters were discussing a career track that I could do both dentistry and military. My mind was set. Shadowing dental offices also confirmed that dentistry was what I wanted to do. WVU is my home. I wanted to stay in West Virginia.
What are some of the most memorable things you take from the WVU School of Dentistry?
I have made many memories that I will treasure for the rest of my life, but the first thing that comes to mind is the people and friendships that I have made with the students and faculty here at the dental school.
What is next for you? What do you look forward to?
My first year after graduation will be spent at Fort Sill, Oklahoma in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency program. After the residency I have a 4-year commitment to the Army, and I will wait and see where life takes me after that. One day I plan to return to West Virginia.
Why are you choosing that path?
I want to be the best dentist I can be. Further training in the AEGD program and working for the Army is a great opportunity for me to do that.
What would you tell your 1st-year self?
Believe in your abilities, and enjoy it because it goes by faster than you think. Go out with friends more.