Where did you go to school?
I graduated in 2014 from the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry, then completed a one-year advanced education in general dentistry (AEGD) program at the Audie Murphy VA.
What CE has made an impact on your patient care?
I joke that I work to fund my continuing education (CE) habits, but continuing to learn has kept dentistry fun and engaging. In particular, the mentorship I received from The MOD Institute has had the greatest impact on patient care. Digital workflows are appealing to me because they enhance precision while creating greater efficiencies.
What are some wins and challenges associated with building your own practice?
The ability to exert full control over my office culture and practice philosophy, and the ability to feel authentic to the core values I want to live by are two of the greatest wins I’ve experienced. Additionally, I have great appreciation for my teammates and patients who have graciously supported me. There have been many challenges—a ransomware attack, a car driving into the new buildout, and a faulty sprinkler flooding the office, to name a few. Fortunately, I’ve always had an incredible support team and despite the difficulties, have still had an incredible ride as a practice owner.
What advice would you give dental students/new grads?
Stay curious, humble, authentic, and always find the fun in what you do. You will have confidence-building moments, and you will have character-building moments; learn to appreciate both. Approach each obstacle with a desire to find the teachable moment and be better because of it. Keep evolving so things don’t get monotonous and you can continue enjoying your work. Don’t stay in isolation; connect with other professionals who understand the struggle and can support you. Surround yourself with people who share the same ethics and always act with integrity. Keep everything in perspective, give yourself grace, and make sure you prioritize the things that matter most. Acknowledge that you are part of an elite club, with a highly specialized skill set and have had educational opportunities other people would love to have; use it wisely and generously to spread smiles and bring more goodness to the world.
Can you share some career highlights?
Receiving my mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry and mastership in the College of Sedation Dentistry.
How do you maintain work-life balance?
I have found focusing on the things I am grateful for along with setting clear boundaries has helped me find balance. I don't choose a guilt mindset, and I am intentional in how I spend my time.
What are your current goals?
The biggest goal I am working on right now is getting married and embodying my new role as a wife.
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