ASDA NEWSLETTER VOLUME VI ISSUE I
Fillings of Gratitude
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS TO OUR BELOVED FAMILY & FRIENDS, “This is a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before.” -- Maya Angelou
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
Greetings Students, Staff, and Faculty of WesternU CDM, It is surreal to think we have completed a full year of our dental school education in a pandemic. There are many dreams in life where you envision the sights, sounds, and feelings associated with something as grand as starting dental school. Who would have thought our sights would include looking through loupes AND a face shield, sounds disappearing from a frozen Zoom screen leading you to think your face may always look that funny, and many mixed feelings about meeting classmates and being the best you can be in dental school. Regardless of all the unexpected events in the past year, nothing but “fillings of gratitude” exist. Whether it was the faculty’s dedication to ensure we continued to learn, your study groups decision to spend endless hours on Zoom studying, or forgoing a trip home to see loved ones, we are on the brink of returning to a new “normal” and as the strong willed dentists we are destined to be; persevering. Cori and I, along with all the members of ASDA making this newsletter possible, are grateful for the opportunity to describe these “Fillings of Gratitude '' from the perspective of many different individuals here at CDM; including an alumni on the front lines during the pandemic. We are honored to be the editors of “On The Cusp” and look forward to bringing to life the many amazing things that continued here at WesternU CDM, despite the challenges of COVID-19. As we all begin this new year, with renewed hope of going back to “normal”, we want to remind you to ask yourself daily; what are your “Fillings of Gratitude” today?
Sincerely,
NEWSLETTER TEAM 1
Andrew Halverson Newsletter Co-Editor
Cori Fine
Newsletter Co-Editor
Marina Elkess
Newsletter Designer
CONTENTS 1
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
3
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
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FAREWELL LETTER
6
INTRODUCING NEW FACULTY
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ALUMNI
Welcome to this Issue
ASDA President Kylee Homeocillo WesternU 2020-2021 Board
Dr. Pape's Retirement
Page 6 :Dr. Chitre Page 7: Dr. Mcleod
Angela Hastings Class of 2013
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10
D4 SEND OFF
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D2 PERSPECTIVE
12
FUN CORNER
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SPONSORS
Daniel Aclan Class of 2021 Natalie Montoya
Page 12 & 13: D1 Auva Ravanpey Page 14: Word Search Recognition of our supportive sponsors
#EXPANDINGOURROOTS
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear WesternU Family,
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Thank you for taking the time to read this issue of “On The Cusp” from WesternU ASDA! I am grateful to have the opportunity to lead this year’s team which is full of dynamic, empowering and talented leaders. When our new board took on our positions in March of this year, we decided on the theme “#ExpandingOurRoots”. We know that this past year has been rough on everyone. But when the roots are deep – there is no reason to fear the wind. After all the trials and tribulations that 2020 has given us, we hope to get back to our ASDA roots and plant more seeds so we can expand them even further in outreach, advocacy, and academic enrichment. For the past four months, our team has already shown how nurturing and supportive they are to each other. As we give each other the right amount of sunlight and water to bring our ideas into fruition, we are able to create a positive environment for our dental student community to flourish. We have made it our mission to help develop our student’s leadership and interpersonal skills as well as provide resources and opportunities for our students to build a network with colleagues from around the nation. I am also excited to announce that we created a new position in our ASDA board for Diversity and Inclusion. With this position, we hope to broaden the dental students' understanding of the systems that contribute to institutionalized racism, health disparities, and socioeconomic inequalities in a safe space where students are heard, valued and protected. Our goal is to make sure we cultivate empathetic student doctors and allow students from different walks of life to feel welcomed into our community. We know that we will face challenges and the process may be slow, because gardens do not grow overnight. But we will overcome and grow together with the guidance of our past leaders paving the way and our supportive faculty. I hope that when we look back on our ASDA WesternU garden this time next year, we can appreciate how far our roots have expanded and how much our flowers have bloomed. They tried to bury us, but they didn’t know we were seeds! In this issue of “On The Cusp”, we are showcasing our recent graduates, student and faculty alumni, and some new faces at WesternU. Furthermore, our members give you an insight of life outside of dental school through advocating initiatives, wellness, and hobbies. I hope this issue gives you a glimpse of how far our roots have truly grown in our community.
Kylee Homecillo KYLEE HOMECILLO
ASDA AT WESTERNU PRESIDENT 2021-22 DMD 2023 CANDIDATE
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FAREWELL FROM DR. PAPE
Greetings,
Imaged above: Dr. Pape and Brandon Le (D2, ASDA advocacy)
FARWELL DR. PAPE
I have been asked to write a few paragraphs about my time at the College of Dental Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences, as I enter my retirement. The theme of this newsletter is gratitude, and I am certainly grateful for the innumerable valuable experiences I have had at Western. I joined the College of Dental Medicine during the summer of 2012. At this time, CDM had three cohorts and was one year away from graduating its first class. I started as a clinic team leader (MP group 1) and gradually was afforded opportunities to take on other teaching and teaching related responsibilities. Certainly, a hallmark of CDM is to support initiative and I was a benefactor of this attitude. Though it is difficult to adequately summarize nine years of teaching, a few enduring memories come to mind. I am in awe of the various pathways that students have traversed to attend WesternU. These include multiple admission attempts, earning master’s degrees, working in dental related fields, and navigating cultural and political obstacles. The perseverance and determination exhibited by many of our students is stunning. I have been fortunate to see amazing growth in all our students. I have seen students who initially handle a handpiece similarly to how I handle chopsticks that have evolved to a level of creating well engineered tooth preparations and functional, esthetic restorations. I have seen many “light bulbs turn on” and I, like all faculty, feel a heartwarming pride to see our students grow to become dentists. I feel grateful for the teamwork efforts of my colleagues and wish them the best in their journey as educators. So, thank you CDM—students, staff and faculty, it has been a great ride; I look forward to he aring about your continued successes.
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Thank you
Introducing New Faculty: Dr. Swati Chitre ABOUT ME I earned a dental degree in India, and then came to the United States with the dream to pursue my career in dentistry in Michigan. I chose this profession because it is a package full of opportunities, challenges and intangible rewards. One thing I admire about this profession is being able to balance work and family life. I love spending time helping the community, making a difference in their lives and being able to give them confidence. It gives me immense satisfaction to help others. COVID had a great impact on this world; it was no different for me asit affected my community services that I would provide tothe military. I cannot wait to go back and start working again.
INTRODUCING NEW FACULTY: DR SWATI CHITRE
WHAT DO YOU VALUE AS AN EDUCATOR?
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As an educator, I was looking into an institution with a mutual value of education and I am so happy to be part of Western U. I think I resonate with Western University’s mission of “educating and training highly competent, diverse groups of clinical practitioners” who are trained by exceptionally talented dental faculty so that the students can provide the highest standard of oral care and improve the quality of lives.
WHAT DO YOU DO ON YOUR SPARE TIME? In my spare time, I love cooking different international dishes, going outdoors for hikes, bird watching and spending quality time with my family. My parents, husband and my two handsome boys take the lion’s share of me becoming a successful dentist and an educator.
WHAT ARE SOME FUN FACTS ABOUT YOU? Fun facts about me are thatI have a collection of quarters from all 50 states including national parks and monuments. I have a fair collection of currencies from different parts of the world. I have visited almost all major national parks in the United States (except Hawaii and Alaska), and six national parks from European, Asian and South American continents together.”
Introducing New Faculty: Dr. Pat Mcleod "TO SAY THAT I AM GRATEFUL IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT " When my father asked me in High School what I wanted to do with my life, my response was of course “ I want to be a dentist”. Fortunately, there were many Howard University trained dentists practicing in Kingston whom I could emulate, a few of whom were women, and the rest as they say, is history. Early Saturday mornings in the lab
NEW FACULTY: DR. PAT MCLEOD
FACULTY - DR. PAT MCLEOD As I reflect on my journey in dentistry, from conception to goal setting and then to accomplishment, I can only be grateful to those who believed in me and fanned the flames to sustain me. My earliest experience in dentistry was as an elementary child in Brooklyn, NY. My dental visits there were always positive and usually ended with a sticker reward for good behaviour. Conversely, when I returned to the remote hilly countryside of Jamaica for junior high school, my friends’ experiences were not as pleasant. The Public Health Dentist would visit the school, working with portable equipment to provide mostly desperately needed extractions. I secretly vowed then to make a difference, so that all children could have nice teeth, pleasant visits, and a sticker at the conclusion of their appointments for good behaviour.
and late weekday nights in “the stacks”, and breakfast cramming for a written exam was the regular routine of my days for 4 years of gruelling work. But it all was worth it in the end. I graduated as a dentist. I was able to work with my hands and make people happy. I could pay my bills and sometimes set my own hours. I could take my family and sometimes my staff on nice vacations to Hawaii, New Orleans, Chicago, Anaheim, San Francisco, Atlanta, Phoenix and other interesting places, like the 2012 ParaOlympics in London! I could transition to teaching and fostering the growth of other dental professionals. To say that I am grateful is an understatement. I am truly blessed and forever indebted to be a part of an outstanding organization here at Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine, with a team of faculty and staff dedicated to seeing others realize their dream of becoming Family Dentists/General Practitioners, Orthodontists, Prosthodontist, Endodontists, Pediatric Dentists, Periodontists, Oral Surgeons, Oral Pathologists, Public Health and Military service Dental Officers, and Oral Health Researchers as well. COVID is and was a detour. A bump in the road. An annoyance. We are better and stronger than we ever were a year ago, minus the unfortunate casualties. We must go on, not only for ourselves, but for all the people who fan your flames. For all the people who dream with and support us. For all the people who instill in us “Fillings of Gratitude''.
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Dr Pat McLeod HU ‘87 WUCDM Faculty
Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Angela Hastings WHO ARE YOU, WHAT YEAR DID YOU GRADUATE, WHERE DO YOU PRACTICE?
I graduated from Western University of Health Sciences in 2013 in the first ever graduating class! In the past eight years, I have worked in a variety of settings from high end cosmetic practices to clinics serving patients experiencing homelessness. By 2018, my passion for community dentistry and teaching became clear which led me to become a full time Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota in their Outreach Division. I am now the Director of one of the UMN fourth year clinical
WHAT "FILLINGS OF GRATITUDE" DO YOU HAVE AFTER WORKING IN A PANDEMIC FOR A YEAR+?
rotations at a community practice in St. Paul, MN. At the University, I serve on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee and in the community, I serve on the Board of Directors for the Minnesota Dental Foundation. On the side, I provide Teledentistry services for a few private companies and mobile dental clinics.
Much like other dental practices around the country, the University of Minnesota shut its doors for four months. While not everyone can say the same, I was fortunate that the University kept all employees on the payroll; I was able to explore other areas of teaching such as delivering Virtual Continuing
More than anything, I am filled with gratitude for the scientists that developed the vaccine, all the people who helped with distribution, the healthcare workers that risked their lives throughout the pandemic and continue their efforts on the frontlines in vaccine clinics. Science really is amazing!
Education courses. The biggest disruption in my personal life came from having to reschedule my wedding from Summer 2020 to this coming July 2021. Despite this difficult decision, I was incredibly grateful that my fiancé and I remained gainfully employed and my immediate friends and family maintained their health. More than anything, I am filled with gratitude for the scientists that developed the vaccine, all the people who helped with distribution, the healthcare workers that risked their lives throughout the pandemic and continue their efforts on the frontlines in vaccine clinics. Science really is amazing!
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Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Angela Hastings
IF YOU HAD ONE PIECE OF ADVICE FOR THE CLASS OF 2021, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Although this was one of the most challenging years of all
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT WESTERN UNIVERSITY?
of our lives, I believe we all will come out with more resilience. This is a necessary skill in dentistry; day to day, schedules can change, medical emergencies can
Given the department I currently work in, it may not be surprising to hear that my favorite part of my education was my time in Outreach Clinics. I loved the diversity of experiences we students had and the different populations I had the privilege to meet and serve. Between my main rotation sites at We Care Dental/Desert Friends of the Developmentally Disabled and Community Health Centers in Lompoc, I
happen in your chair, that cavity that appeared to be just a small occlusal on the X-ray turns out to be a massive MODBL or the simple 30 min extraction becomes a 1.5 hour surgical case with a gingival flap and now you’re behind in your schedule. Try your best to focus on the silver linings and the skills you have developed along the way. Yes, it was unfair that your education shifted and you may not have had the volume of experiences you expected, but the fact that you had the opportunity to enter this program and graduate as a DMD is a gift and a privilege. Remember that.
gained so much confidence in my skills and compassion for migrant workers and disabled populations. We also had the
WHAT ARE SOME FUN FACTS? WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?
opportunity to volunteer in Riverside and on Skid Row to provide free care to people experiencing homelessness as well
One very fun fact is that a current D2 at WesternU,
as at CareNow LA which helped open my
Andrew Halverson, and I became coworkers at
eyes to significant dental needs in the
Minnesota Community Care in 2019. I was fortunate to
community at large. Lastly, we had a
witness his application process and relive the memories
robust rotation through school based dental clinics. At one of these clinics, a child came up to me and asked if she could have more than one toothbrush to bring home to her family as they only had one that they all shared. As heartbreaking as this was, I believe this was the moment that ignited my passion for public health and community dentistry. Beyond that, I 9
do miss the 360 days of sunshine!
of the interview and acceptance day. It has been so fun to keep in touch and hear which professors are still around at WesternU, how the curriculum has evolved and grown, and to provide clinical tips along the way. In my free time, I enjoy staying active with snowboarding in the winter and biking and playing coed soccer in the warmer months. Pre-covid, I loved attending live concerts, but I am hopeful this activity will be available again in the near future!
D4 Send Off: Daniel Aclan
D4 SEND OFF: DANIEL ACLAN
As I look back and reminisce over my time in dental school, I am overwhelmed with the filling of gratitude for the people I have met, and the memories that were made. Coming into dental school, I wanted a sense of community which, I wholeheartedly believe was my reason for success at WesternU. The family-like environment and lifelong friends I have made at WesternU, gave me the confidence to get out of my comfort zone, try new things and experience dental school in ways I could have never imagined. From advocating side by side with dentists throughout the nation about student debt reform to the Rock’n’Roll themed presidential parties with CDA, these moments are one’s that will live forever and are memories that I hold dear to my heart. This has been a great chapter in my life, and I am thankful for all the big and small connections I have made with each individual during my time as a dental student.
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For those who are starting their journey as a dental student, I would like to challenge you to get out of your comfort zone and get involved with your class. Yes, your studies will always be your number one priority, but it is important to be able to compartmentalize and find something that you are also passionate about to connect that passion with dentistry. Whether it be serving the underserved, a special interest, or a unique hobby you have that you can share with the world, let your light shine and don’t be afraid to share your unique talent.”
Pictured: WesternU
D2 Perspective: Natalie Montoya
D2 PERSPECTIVE: NATALIE MONTOYA
"I GENUINELY FEEL THAT DENTAL SCHOOL (SO FAR) HAS BEEN SOME OF THE BEST TIMES OF MY LIFE."
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Dental school has been, by far, one of the greatest challenges I have faced in my life. I recall the nervous excitement I felt when my plane landed at Ontario International Airport. As an introvert, this brand new start tied my stomach into knots. I knew absolutely no one in Southern California. With this said, I genuinely feel that dental school (so far) has been some of the best times of my life. The never-ending cycle of stress, exams, and studying has been overshadowed by the relationships and support I have found at WesternU. As cliche as it is to say, I have found a new home away from home at WesternU.
My first two years at WesternU went by unbelievably fast; much of this is thanks to COVID-19. During my first year, it was all too easy to focus all my energy on school. When the COVID-19 pandemic started, I was forced to reassess my priorities in life. The pandemic had a severe impact on my mental health but it also allowed me to realize that I need to do my best to care for myself before I can think of treating patients. As we inch closer to a “normal” society, I do my best to keep finding things to be grateful for in my day to day life. Should I have a difficult day, each moment of gratitude helps ground me more in reality. Most of all, it is key to express gratitude to those around you. As a future dentist, it is so important to me that those whom I work with (be it specialists, dental assistants, dental hygienists, etc.) are very aware that I am appreciative of their support in my role as a dentist. This past year has been incredibly difficult academically, emotionally, mentally, etc. for my classmates and me. Despite these obstacles, I feel that I would have fared worse without the amazing support system I have found at WesternU. Every person from the faculty, staff, classmates, upperclassmen, and friends I have made have helped me in some way during my first and second year as a dental student. I am grateful to have been surrounded by such kind, generous, and intelligent people; I can only hope that I will be fortunate enough to continue to receive and give back this support for the remainder of my dental school career.
FUN C O R N E R
HOW TO START A FUFILLING DAY OFF RIGHT! BY: AUVA RAVANPAY MAKE YOUR BED EVERY MORNING I find that making my bed every morning sets the day up for success, especially now that many of us have Zoom lectures in our bedrooms as well. Having an organized space allows my mind to focus on school with a more positive attitude.
@HEALTHY_AUV
FUN CORNER BY AUVA RAVANPAY
BREW YOURSELF A HOT COFFEE OR TEA I am a BIG advocate of hot tea and starting every morning with a tall glass of water followed by hot tea. It is important to stay hydrated. Despite the diuretic effect of caffeine, tea is unlikely to dehydrate you! I find the warm drink very calming, and it prepares me for a long day of learning. Some of my favorite teas
are
green,
cardamom tea! 12
mint,
and
FUN C O R N E R
MOVE YOUR BODY!
Whether you enjoy running 10 miles, lifting weights, or simply going on a short walk each day, it is essential to get up and move! Many of us sit for long amounts of time, which is detrimental to both our mental and physical health. I live a very active lifestyle and try to go to the gym every day. Additionally, during our 5-10 minute breaks between Zoom lectures, I typically get up and stretch or do a short yoga session just to reset both my mental and physical situation for the moment.
WRITE DOWN DAILY INTENTIONS I keep a personal planner on my desk where I write every task I wish to accomplish each day. I like to plan out my weeks as well if I know we have a project that may take several days. I find this helps me stay organized and confident in my ability to accomplish all my goals each day when I can see what I need to do each day on paper! It is very fulfilling to check-off every task each day and to feel ready for the next day of work!
ALLOW SOME "ME TIME" FOR YOURSELF It is so important to find moments during the day to take a break. Often, we feel that we must fill every moment of our days with productive actions that will keep us on track with our rigorous program. However, taking a break and time for yourself is productive as well. The feeling of burn-out is real, and I have definitely felt this when I do not allow myself a moment of rest.
MEAL PREP I try meal prepping every Sunday for the upcoming week. This allows me to continuously make healthier food choices because I have meals already prepared for me to eat between classes and labs. We are much more likely to snack on foods with a lower nutritional value when we are stressed and have less time to cook meals each day. With our crazy schedules, I have found meal prepping to keep me feeling fulfilled and healthy both mentally and physically every day. 13
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R S EARCH
THANK YOU to our Sponsors
We appreciate the continuous support and encouragement from our wonderful sponsors. Thank you for making this possible!
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