Brittany Walker, D.D.S.
“I chose WVU because of the sense of community. From my first interactions, it felt like a place where students are genuinely supported by faculty and peers. That kind of environment is important to me because it encourages both academic success and personal growth.”
What is your hometown?
Jefferson, MD
Where did you earn your undergraduate degree?
B.S. in Biology from Washington College (Chestertown, MD)
What made you interested in the field of dentistry?
What drew me in most was the ability to make a direct, visible impact on someone’s health and confidence. Dentistry is about improving quality of life, whether by relieving pain, restoring function, or helping someone feel more confident in their smile. I also appreciated the blend of art and science involved, as well as the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients.
Why do you feel this career is the right fit for you?
I enjoy working with my hands, paying attention to detail, and applying scientific knowledge in a practical way. Dentistry offers a unique combination of problem-solving, precision, and creativity, which suits how I like to work and think.
Why did you choose WVU for your education?
I chose WVU because of the sense of community. From my first interactions, it felt like a place where students are genuinely supported by faculty and peers. That kind of environment is important to me because it encourages both academic success and personal growth.
What would you tell a prospective student about the program and your experience at the WVU School of Dentistry?
WVU School of Dentistry offers a well-rounded and supportive learning experience that truly prepares you for a career in dentistry. The program provides a strong foundation in both the scientific knowledge and clinical skills needed to succeed, and there’s a clear emphasis on hands-on learning early on.
Who has had the biggest impact on your college experience?
One of the biggest influences on my dental school experience has been Dr. Powers. He challenged me to think critically, strengthen my clinical skills, and approach patient care with confidence and empathy. His honest feedback and supportive, approachable nature helped me grow, especially during moments of uncertainty, and made it easier to learn from mistakes.
Tell us about experiences during your time in the WVU School of Dentistry that you particularly enjoyed.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my time at the WVU School of Dentistry has been the opportunity to work directly with patients in the clinic. Being able to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world setting has been both rewarding and motivating. I’ve especially appreciated building relationships with patients over time and seeing the positive impact that quality dental care can have on their confidence and overall health.
Tell us about your rural rotation experience.
I completed my first rural rotation at Smile Designs of the Shenandoah Valley in Inwood, WV. I was lucky enough to complete a second rural rotation at the end of my senior year at Briarwood Dental Center in Martinsburg, WV.
Working in a smaller clinical setting strengthened my confidence in clinical decision-making, communication, and time management, while allowing me to take greater ownership of patient care. Overall, the rural rotation was one of the most valuable parts of my training, shaping both my clinical skills and my perspective on access to care. I plan to carry these lessons forward by remaining adaptable, patient-centered, and committed to serving diverse communities.
What are you planning to do after graduation?
I plan to complete an AEGD program at the Martinsburg Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Martinsburg, WV, next year. I plan to pursue advanced training in endodontics after completing this program.
As a soon-to-be graduate, what advice would you give to your freshman self?
If I could give advice to my freshman self, I would start by saying: don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s easy to feel like you need to have everything figured out right away, but growth takes time, and making mistakes is part of the process. Trust that you will improve with practice and experience.
Anything unique or interesting about yourself that others might not know?
One thing that others might not know about me is how much I enjoy walking. It’s a simple habit, but it’s something I’ve come to value as a way to clear my mind, manage stress, and reset during busy or demanding days.