What makes a smile truly unforgettable? To me, It’s more than just straightness of the teeth or how white they are. It’s the confidence and pure happiness that radiates through a smile, something unique that makes a difference and leaves an everlasting impression. A confident smile has the power to change lives and that belief has truly inspired my passion to become an Orthodontist to help gain that powerful boost of self assurance we all deserve. My inspiration has always been very personal, shaped by both my aunt, an amazing Orthodontist who positively makes an impact on her patient’s lives daily and by witnessing my sister’s transformation through her own orthodontic journey. Their influences helped me realize just how powerful a confident smile can be, and it inspired me to dedicate my career to helping others achieve that same confidence.

Growing up, going through braces was a positive and wonderful experience for me. But it was watching my sister’s journey that truly opened my eyes. Anyone who knows her knows her as someone who is vibrant, radiant person, full of energy and happiness. Yet, behind that brightness was a deep insecurity about her smile. I sill remember her trying to avoid laughing too hard in front of others or smiling. People would make fun of her teeth, during that time I watched her happiness fade. When she scheduled for her braces appointment she was scared and nervous, what would people say or think? During that time her smile and teeth stated to change and she was able to get her braces removed. By the time her braces came off it was like she was a new person, she carried herself differently and her confidence showed through her smile. Through that personal experience it showed me how powerful a confident smile can be, and it sparked something in me: a desire to help others experience the same type of personal growth that my sister went through.

Witnessing both my sister’s transformation and also my aunt’s work instilled the determination in me to pursue a career where I could make that kind of impact. That resolve has led me to where I am now. I am currently pursuing a degree in Biomedical Health Sciences, which has provided me with a solid scientific foundation and prepare me for the next step toward dental school. Each class I take fuels my passion for orthodontics and determination to help others gain the confidence that comes with a healthy beautiful smile.

In the coming years, I hope to undertake further studies after completing my undergraduate studies at Old Dominion University. My intention would be to purpose a program dentistry so that I can acquire hands on training and experience to become a skilled orthodontist. I would like to learn from experienced professionals and collaborate with peers who share the same passion for helping others as I do. Finally, I aspire to build a career that will enable me to contribute significantly towards society and establish my own dental practice. By dedicating myself to this path, it will be difficult, there will be days where its harder then others but at the end of the path everything will work out for the best.