I chose a future in dentistry, because it uniquely combines artistry, precision, and compassionate care. I have always been drawn to creating beautiful things, and I am equally motivated by the joy that comes from helping others feel confident and healthy.

          Since middle school, I have pursued artistic opportunities, including painting memorials, portraits, murals, and stage backdrops. I initially attended the Georgia Institute of Technology intending to study architecture or industrial design, believing those fields would best support my creativity. However, after shadowing a dentist, I realized dentistry offered a more personal and impactful way to blend artistry with care. Earning a degree in business administration provided me with essential skills to manage a future practice effectively, while my continued artistic training now enhances my precision and design abilities in dental education.

          During dental school, I have remained committed to creativity, balancing academic demands with commissioned artwork, teaching, and live event painting. I also find joy in smaller, personal projects, such as designing club merchandise, painting gifts, and hand drawing birthday cards for all of classmates. These experiences reinforce my belief that artistry is not separate from dentistry, but rather essential to it. Designing dental restorations requires both technical skill and aesthetic sensitivity, and witnessing patients regain confident smiles continually renews my sense of purpose.

          In dentistry, I see compassion, service and creativity collide. I have not been able to stop meeting dental professionals and students since. Through shadowing experiences over the last seven years, I watched Dr. Holcomb and Dr. Williams serve patients of all backgrounds and ages. Laura Whitaker, Executive Director of ESP in Athens, told me about the possibility of specializing my practice for those with special needs. Dr. Ben Jernigan pointed me towards the DDD Foundation. Dr. Bennett inspired me with her local dental missions with Hands of Grace and international efforts in Honduras, and Ben Massell Dental Clinic showed me even more philanthropic opportunities in dentistry as I worked their administrative screenings during COVID. Amber Lawson showed me the importance of leadership in organized dentistry, and what is possible when you’re an involved member of your community. She has been an integral helper with Mercer’s Center for IDD and served as president of the Georgia Dental Association. 

          Networking and witnessing other dentists’ enthusiasm daily encourages me to intentionally cultivate my priorities and skills throughout my career. I have attended over 100 additional hours of CE through GDA Law Day, ASDA conventions in Chicago and Charlotte, memberships in Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA), American Association of Women in Dentistry, and various lunch seminars throughout the year. I am committed to lifelong leadership, as seen in my positions as ASDA secretary, CMDA treasurer and secretary, and Design Chair for my graduating dental class. Through these involvements, I’ve had the opportunity to serve at Mercy Health Clinic in Athens, create care packages for Children’s Hospital of Georgia, cook and serve meals at Ronald McDonald House, and fundraise and organize ASDA Summer Student Welcome Back Reception and DCG Alumni Association Spring Talent Show. I remain grounded through regular involvement in my church community, which continually reinforces my commitment to serving others with humility and gratitude.