lights,
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
ASDA BOARD
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
MEET OUR DIRECTORS
MEET OUR ADVISORS
GOLD CROWN AWARD SPOTLIGHT PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
STAFF SPOTLIGHT - HEATHER ALBERTSON
PRE-CLINICAL FACULTY SPOTLIGHT - DR. HAMILTON
CLINICAL FACULTY SPOTLIGHT - DR. NAKAMINE
SUMMER FLICKS
D2 SPOTLIGHT - KAMERON MEDINA
IDP SPOTLIGHT
DR. MAZEN ATOUT
DR. ERIKA LUNA VILCHIS
THE GOLD STANDARD DRUMMER - DR. GOLD BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT - TRAVIS TRUONG
ADVOCACY SPOTLIGHT - LOBBY DAY GREGORY BAI
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
To our beloved family and friends…
We are so excited to bring you a summer edition of our ASDA Newsletter. Our board has many exciting new ideas and events in store for this upcoming year.
We introduce this year’s theme, “Lights! Camera! Action!” with the hope that it encourages our students to highlight their successes, document their milestones, and take action on issues they care about!
In this edition, you’ll find a variety of articles and updates designed to keep you informed and inspired. We’ve included interviews with some of our standout members, faculty, and staff showcasing their journeys and achievements. Additionally, we have spotlights on successful events, tips for balancing dental school with personal life, and insights into the latest advancements in dentistry.
We’re also excited to announce several new initiatives aimed at enhancing your experience as a member of ASDA. From lunch and learns and social events to networking and community service opportunities, there’s something for everyone. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and support you need to thrive both academically and personally.
As always, we encourage you to get involved and make the most of your membership. Your participation and feedback are invaluable to us, and we look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas. Together, we can make this a memorable and impactful year.
Thank you for being a part of our ASDA community. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences.
Warm regards, Marketing Team
Daniel Luy
Eboney Hinds
Valerie Lua
Kendall Rollin
Kristie Ngo
Gabriel Perez
Hi friends!
LETTER FROM THE
President
My name is Kendall Rollin, and I am honored to serve as your WesternU ASDA Chapter President for the 24’-25’ term :) It is my personal pleasure to introduce the first issue of the 24’-25’ WesternU ASDA club newsletter! This newsletter is packed with exciting updates, highlights & spotlights on our members, esteemed faculty & staff, ways to get involved with our ASDA Chapter, and valuable information about upcoming events for the year.
First and foremost, I cannot express enough gratitude to our exceptional immediate past board for positioning the chapter for continued success, growth, and advancement in the years ahead. Their commitment to our chapter can be noted in some of the remarkable milestones & achievements, such as our Chapter’s ‘23-’24 Gold Crown Award and noteworthy chapter member engagement. I also want to extend my heartfelt congratulations and enthusiasm to collaborate with our new ASDA board, filled with remarkable leaders, aspiring dental professionals, and individuals with ASDA fever!
Over the past few months, my executive team and I have been working together to craft both a mission statement and a theme for the year that truly represents our goals and vision. After reflecting on our journey as an organization, and envisioning where we see our future heading, we decided that “Lights, Camera, Action” most authentically represents our mission. This theme encourages students to highlight their successes, document their milestones, and take action to advocate for issues they are passionate about!
Throughout my journey to ASDA Chapter President(& to my D3 year), I have received invaluable guidance from my peers, mentors, and professors. With this support, I have learned the importance of quiet and empathetic leadership, genuine and passionate advocacy, the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being, and embracing lifelong learning. My experience in dental school has provided opportunities for both personal and professional growth and development, and I have a commitment to embody each of these qualities as I humbly serve as President this year.
Looking ahead to the year, we are thrilled to announce an array of exciting events planned, including the annual ASDA Golf Tournament, a new Speaker Series, the Halloween Health Fair, many more Pickleball Tournaments, our first ASDA Family & Friends Field Day, and many more! Each of these invaluable opportunities will allow members, CDM friends, alumni & family, to enhance the dental profession, engage with ASDA, make a positive contribution towards community outreach, network, and celebrate the achievements of our WesternU ASDA Chapter! I encourage everyone to participate and make the most of these opportunities.
Thank you all for your continued support and enthusiasm for our Chapter, I can’t wait for you to see what we have planned for this year!
Warm regards,
Kendall Nicole Rollin, MS
WesternU ASDA President 2024-2025
introducing our ASDA DIRECTORS
Gregory Bai
ADVOCACY DIRECTOR
Hello, my name is Gregory Bai, and I am currently a dental student at Western University. My journey in dentistry has been driven by a passion for healthcare, a desire to connect with my community, and a commitment to advocating for my peers and the future of our profession. Actively involved with the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), I have served as Legislative Liaison and now as Advocacy Director, where I've learned the importance of effective communication and collaboration.
My experiences in pre-dental organizations, research, community service, and volunteer work have solidified my desire to pursue dentistry and highlighted the critical impact of oral health on overall well-being. As Advocacy Director, I've spearheaded legislative visits and awareness campaigns, emphasizing the power of networking and building relationships within the dental community. My most memorable experience has been attending ASDA Lobby Day, which reinforced my commitment to advocacy and leadership within the dental community. I am dedicated to making a positive impact and inspiring others to join in our efforts to improve dental care and policy.
Kim Nguyen
FUNDRAISING & ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR
Hello everyone, I'm Kim Nguyen, an incoming D3 student with a passion for hiking, travel, culinary adventures, and a love for cats and gardening. Fun fact about me: I'm a former certified lash technician who can also wiggle my ears! Last year in ASDA, I served as co-chair for the newsletter, where I interviewed faculty and alumni to showcase their Western experiences. This year, as the Fundraising and Activities Director, I'm dedicated to enhancing ASDA engagement.
My primary objective is to raise funds to facilitate student attendance at conferences, providing them with firsthand exposure to ASDA's mission and impact. Furthermore, I am committed to organizing a successful vendor fair and golf tournament. These events will not only bolster our community but also contribute to our goal of fostering meaningful connections and support among students.
introducing our ASDA DIRECTORS
Danny Lee
OUTREACH DIRECTOR
Hello! My name is Seong Eun (Danny) Lee and I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area. If you ever visit, make sure to try the Italian Beef with hot peppers from Portillos…In my free time, I enjoy going to the theaters, playing pickleball, and chowing down at the local Chili’s. For my undergraduate education, I studied Neuroscience and Psychology at Northwestern University and in 2022, I decided to attend Western University CDM. Now I am currently a D3, just beginning patient care! In my leadership experience, I have noticed that people will always appreciate even the small events!
Whether it is just some free coffee or a morning email, people notice the small details. That is why it is so important to always communicate with your team and never hold back on creativity! One of my favorite experiences was attending the West Regional Conference in 2023, in Las Vegas. I had the opportunity to meet a lot of great people and make some money at the same time! I have a strong passion for community outreach, and love each opportunity to connect with local community members and network with other dentists. Overseeing how our outreach team fosters a sense of community at WesternU CDM will be both rewarding and exciting experience!
Gabriel Perez
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
Hi everyone, I am Gabriel Perez, an incoming D3 student at WesternU! I was born and raised in Laredo, TX, and plan on returning home after graduation to help my medically underserved community. In my free time, I love to hang out with friends, try out new food spots, and play video games XD. Last year, I served as Marketing Design chair, and this year, I will continue that role along with being the Social Media Chair and Director for the Marketing and Communications team.
I chose to take on these leadership roles because they allow me to expand my creativity. ASDA has helped me strengthen my leadership skills and find a safe community that allows everyone’s voices to be heard. This year, I plan on working closely with every other team in ASDA and marketing to the student body so they can learn about all the awesome things ASDA is working on!
MEET OUR Dr. Lavasani
advisors
Dr. Setareh Lavasani, is a Board-certified Oral Radiologist here at CDM. Known for her genuine passion for mentoring students, she encourages them with the motto "Never forget your dreams and work tirelessly until you achieve them all."
She leads by example, as seen in her successful challenge of the ADEX exam. When not imparting wisdom in ECD classes or analyzing CBCT scans, you can catch her in Sim lab honing her Crown preps for ADEX, always sporting her signature smile and welcoming demeanor.
Dr. Islamoglu, a proud WesternU alumna, actively participated in ASDA, ADEA, and DSRG during her time in dental school. She cherished these experiences as they offered invaluable opportunities to connect with classmates and others at events hosted by various CDM clubs and organizations. Dr. Islamoglu is genuinely excited to serve as a faculty advisor for the clubs that “made her dental school experience so memorable.”
You can find Dr. Islamoglu in both the pre-clinical and clinical areas of CDM, where she consistently demonstrates her compassionate nature and passion for collaboration & teamwork.
In her free time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, whether at the beach or on road trips. She also loves trying out new recipes and sharing them with friends.
Dr. Islamoglu
Spotlightgold crown award
On a national level the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) Gold Crown Awards celebrates and recognizes the excellence of various chapters and individual members. The Gold Crown Awards recognizes outstanding performance in advocacy, community service, chapter engagement, health and wellness, professional development and leadership, and member communications. By honoring chapters and individuals with these prestigious awards ASDA seeks to inspire innovation and enhance the dental student experience.
This past February, WesternU ASDA was recognized, winning this year’s Individual Gold Crown Award for Professional Development and Leadership . Competing against 66 other dental schools, WesternU ASDA was recognized for our unique “Business and Bites” series.
Our chapter’s “ Business and Bites ” series works in conjunction with Dental Coach USA, allowing our members the opportunity to envision and build their own dental practice from scratch. They participated in a comprehensive course designed to enhance their professional and leadership skills beyond dental school, focusing on both building and buying a practice. Over six sessions , industry coaches from across the country provided insider knowledge on various aspects of owning a dental practice, including office design, mission statements, marketing, team building, managing online reviews, offering in-house plans, and increasing revenue.
At the end of the series, students submitted a final PowerPoint project showcasing their dream practice, applying all the concepts they learned. They competed for gift certificates and VISA gift cards of varying denominations. Projects submitted covered practice size, location, inhouse technology, mission/vision statements, procedures offered, and color schemes, really allowing our members to fully visualize their dream practice. This coaching series gave students the tools to achieve their individual philosophy, vision, and professional goals. By addressing the often-overlooked business side of dentistry, our ASDA chapter here at WesternU helped students overcome the fear of practice ownership with education.
We are extremely proud of our ‘23-’24 ASDA Board and all of the hard work that was put in to make this series successful! We would also like to recognize our members and their dedication to professional growth. The recognition from the ASDA Gold Crown Awards not only highlights our chapter's achievements but also motivates us to continue striving for excellence for our members.
On April 21st, WesternU ASDA hosted our inaugural pickleball tournament at Sofive Upland, embracing the growing trend of this exciting sport. The event featured 12 teams, each comprising two students from all four classes, competing in a double-elimination format. Each team had two opportunities to stay in the tournament, with 15-minute rounds determining the first team to reach 11 points as the winner. The tournament lasted a few hours, wrapping up with the crowning of our champions.
A big thank you to everyone who signed up and participated and a special shoutout to our amazing Activities Team for their awesome planning and organization.
Congratulations to our winners:
1st Place Champions - Ashkon and Breanna (DMD 2027)
2nd Place - Danny and Christine (DMD 2026)
3rd Place - Amir and Andrew (DMD 2027)
We can't wait to host another tournament soon!
PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
"I had a lot of fun competing in the WesternU ASDA pickleball tournament! I think it should definitely become a yearly tradition for the association. I didn't realize there was a huge community of pickleball players of all levels who enjoyed the game at our school. I got the opportunity to bond with some classmates from all years through this fun sport. My favorite moment was winning against some of the older D4 guys who definitely came with lots of passion. This was such a stress-relieving and fun experience."
- Danny Lee, DMD 2026
“The field was filled with talent! My partner (Emily D4) and I played pretty well together. It’ll be a good tradition moving forward for inner or mixed cohort competition at CDM”
- Gerin Albelda, DMD 2026
“The pickleball tournament was a great outlet for my classmates and I to get a break from the stress of school and have fun! It was so cool to see so many people make time for an activity outside of class that helps our mental and physical well-being!”
- Breanna Moreno, DMD 2027
SPOTLIGHT HEATHER ALBERTSON STUDENT
COORDINATOR staff
AFFAIRS
WhatdoyouenjoymostaboutworkingatCDM?
IenjoythepeopleofCDM.Ilookforwardtocomingineverydayand gettingtointeractwitheveryonewhetheritisduringameetingorjust passinginthehallway.Wehaveaveryapproachableandwelcoming collegethattreatsyoulikeyoubelongandaresupposedtobehere,and it’sagreatfeeling.Imaybebiased,butwehavethebestfaculty,staff, andstudents!
Whatdoesatypicaldaylooklikeforyouinyourposition?
Atanygiventime,thereareabout10projectsinvariousstagesof developmentthatIamworkingon.WhileIcanrelyoneachdaytoinvolve thetypicaladministrativetasksthatushertheseprojectsthroughto fruition,myfavoritedaysarewhenIamdealtawildcardsituationthat requiresacreativesolution.Rightnow,weareinthemiddleofWelcome WeekplanningforDMD2028,somydaysarefilledwithcateringcalls, roomscheduling,andlogisticalrabbitholes.Stillwaitingforthe wildcards.
Whatadvicewouldyougivenewstudentsstartingatthisdental school?
WesternUCDMacceptsaround2%oftheirapplicantpooleachyear.Just 2%!Whenthingsstartfeelinghard,rememberwhatyouhavealready accomplished.Ifyoueverneedapeptalk,pleasecometome.Iam alreadysoproudofyouall!Createconnectionsandnurturethem.Your peersupportsystem,thepeoplewhoaregoingthroughittoo,aregoing tobestunderstandyou.Lastly,practicehumilityandpatience!Ihavea lotofadviceforsomeonewhohasn’tgonethroughdentalschool
Whatdoyouliketodoinyourfreetimewhenyou’renotworking?
Inmyfreetime,Ienjoylocalexploration.Ispendmostweekendswalking formileslookingaroundneighborhoodswhilelisteningtoaudiobooksor podcasts.Ifthereisahistoricaltourorcommunityevent,Iamthereand usuallythemostexcitedpersoninthegroup.SouthernCaliforniahasso manypointsofinterestandIhavemadeitmymissiontovisitthemall!
Pre-clinical
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
DR.
HAMILTON
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
Can you tell us more about your professional journey and what led you to become a faculty member at CDM?
Since I was little, I knew I wanted to work in the healthcare field. My parents were a big inspiration, as I saw their impact on a population with many healthcare needs and disparities. After some consideration, I started talking with different professionals in the healthcare system, one of whom was my dentist. He was also a faculty member at the Dental School in my
hometown, Cuenca, Ecuador. This interaction was very impactful and helped me decide to pursue dentistry, with the hope of one day working in an academic setting as well.
After graduating from Dental School, I pursued Endodontics at the University of Inga-Uninga, Brazil. During my residency, I worked on a research project for my thesis, which sparked my research interest and furthered my affinity for the academic setting. What cemented my interest in pursuing academics was later in my career when I had the opportunity to work as a bench instructor for pre-clinical dental students at Indiana University School of Dentistry while pursuing a Master's in Operative Dentistry.
I moved to California, and with my academic interests in mind, I started volunteering at Western University as a preclinical instructor in 2016, later becoming a full-time faculty member in 2017. Being a dental educator has been a very rewarding experience, allowing me to shape the future of dentistry and inspire the next generation of dental professionals.
What are some of your favorite aspects about working at WesternU?
What initially attracted me to Western University College of Dental Medicine was the interdisciplinary approach to education and the advanced technology accessible to students. Few institutions provide this level of technological access at the undergraduate level. My favorite aspect, however, is the sense of family among CDM. CDM is a family who support each other's growth and development.
How do you see the future of dentistry evolving, and what skills should new dentists focus on developing?
Dentistry is constantly evolving, and in recent years, technology has taken a central role in shaping its future. Advancements in digital dentistry, such as 3D printing and CAD/CAM systems, are revolutionizing the way dental care is delivered. These technologies enable more efficient treatments and enhance patient experiences. For new dentists, embracing these changes and developing a combination of technical and soft skills will be crucial to being wellprepared to navigate the future of dentistry and provide the best possible care to their patients.
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not teaching or practicing dentistry?
When I'm not teaching, I love walking. I put on my headphones and let the road lead me, usually around my neighborhood (ha!). After a good walk, I feel like I can organize my thoughts better, and any worries I have are left somewhere along the way. Now that my little one is older, he enjoys walking with me, making this pastime even more meaningful.
What’s something people don’t know about you that you’d like to share?
I am passionate about animals and grew up with a variety of rescues, making a place for each of them in our home. I used to volunteer at rescue centers, and although time constraints have kept me away recently, I hope I can start doing it again. I was also an avid runner, enjoying 3-mile runs almost every day. Participating in races, especially 5Ks, was one of my favorite activities. Health issues forced me to take a break, but now that I’m better, I hope to resume my training soon.
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT Clinical
DR. NAKAMINE
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR
Can you tell us more about your professional journey and what led you to become a faculty member at CDM?
I am a proud alum of WesternU! Post-graduation, I moved to Texas with my boyfriend (now husband and also an alum). We worked at a primarily Medicaid clinic in Corpus Christi. It was fastpaced and busy, but it was a great place to start out. We then decided to buy a struggling office in San
Antonio and worked really hard to turn it around. We were able to sell the office in 2021 for a profit and move back to California to be closer to family.
I found out that WesternU was hiring from a faculty member whom I remained in contact with after graduation. Looking for a change and to give back to the community and profession, I applied for the job and have happily been here for a year and half now.
What do you enjoy most about working with dental students in TDC?
What I enjoy most about working with dental students is witnessing their growth and development over time. I get to see students treat their very first patient in clinic and watch them develop their hand skills, communication and confidence through their very last day of clinic. It is very rewarding getting to experience that journey with them and understanding all of the hard work that everyone puts in to become a successful dentist. Being part of their journey also allows me to stay updated with the latest advancements in dentistry so that I can continue to learn and grow alongside them. I enjoy that the students are always keeping me on my toes and helping me understand and relate to Gen Z.
What advice do you give to students who are struggling with clinical procedures?
I would want struggling students to reach out to faculty, staff, and classmates and ask for guidance. WesternU has some of the nicest and most helpful people I have met, and there's no reason anyone should feel like they can't find someone to talk to. I think it is also important for students to understand that skills take time and repetition to develop, so in the meantime, it is important to focus on the things you can control such as coming to clinic prepared. Review lectures and charts and make sure you understand what you are expected to do for your patients. Stress less about the speed and confidence; those will come later in your journey!
How can students make the most out of their clinical rotations and experiences here in dental school?
I think students should take the time to network. The dental community is small and your career is hopefully long, so it's a good idea to get to know the people in your community. The externship site you worked at could have a job opening for you after graduation, or the colleague you meet at a convention may be retiring and selling his office. There are a lot of opportunities out there, and you'll only limit yourself if you try to go on this journey alone.
D3 Felicia Banh, soaking in the sights of Kyoto.
D2 Koby Nguyen, beat the summer heat in Banff!
D2 Isabelle Bernardo, loved her summer travels across the pond!
A PICTURE PERFECT SUMMER
D2s Madison Gulley, Rojin Kharrazi, Kristen Hardin, and Isabella Ateshian making magical memories during their girls trip to Disneyland!
D4 Emily Nguyen, is all smiles, enjoying the summer in beautiful Greece!
A PICTURE PERFECT SUMMER
D3 Mahvish Khan, spent her summer sky high in Miami celebrating her bachelorette!
D4 Valentina Garcia, cherishing the summer vibes in Canada!
A PICTURE PERFECT SUMMER
D2 SPOTLIGHT KAMERON
MEDINA
Introduceyourself!
Hello,IamKameronMedina.Ihavealargelistof randomhobbies:karaoke,dancing,cooking, basketball,snowboarding,Brazilianjiu-jitsu, bouldering,pickleball,gaming,andprobablymore thatIcan’tthinkofatthemoment.Mymost memorablepartofD1yearhasbeenjustgetting toknowmypeersthroughoutthevariousevents thathappenedduringtheyear:celebratingafter tests,sharingmealstogether,playingpickleball, goingtoVegas,etc.
Describeyourjourneytodentalschool.Howwasyourtransitionand acclimationtoCDMinyourD1year?
Myjourneytodentalschoolislongandconvoluted,soI’lltryto summarizeitasbestasIcan.Mydadisadentist,soIalwayswatched himfromayoungageandenvisionedmyselfdoingthesameprocedures takingoverasthedentistformybigFilipinofamily.However,my passionfordentistryoriginatedfromtheUCSDFreeDentalClinics whereIwastheclinicmanageratthedowntownbranchforthe underservedpopulation.Itransitionedintoagraduateprogramat DrexelUniversityCollegeofMedicinewhereIwastornbetween anatomyresearchanddentalschool.Thankfully,Iwasadmittedintothe MSMSprogramatWesternU,whichmadethetransitionandacclimation toCDMvirtuallyseamless.
Ifyoucouldgobacktothebeginningoftheyear,whatadvice wouldyougiveyourself?
IfIcouldgobacktothebeginningoftheyear,Iwouldtellmyselfto organizemyphotosandinsertthemintothetemplatesassoonas possible.Thiswouldhavemadecompletingtheportfolioslessstressful andensuredthatIhadallthephotosrequiredfortheportfoliosgiving meampletimetoretakephotosifImissedanything.
Anythingelseyouwouldliketoshare?
Ultimately,IamabsolutelythrilledtobehereatWesternUCDMbecause ofthesupportthatIhavebeengivenbymypeersandesteemed faculty!IlookforwardtowhatistocomeasIcontinuemydreamof becomingacompetentdentist,sothatImaybealeaderwhoserveshis community.
IDP SPOTLIGHT
DR. MAZEN ATOUT
Whathasyourexperiencebeenlikeabroad,herein theUS?
I’vebeenintheUSforalmostayearandahalfnow,and Ihavetosayeverythingfeelsdifferent.Istruggledat firsttogetusedtothesystem,butafterafewmonths,I managedtoadapt.Thegoodthinghereisthediversity, itteachespeopleunityinspiteoftheirdifferencesand varietyofcultures.I’mthankfultohavemetalotofkind peoplewhoarewholeheartedlywillingtohelpyouand pushyouforward.
Whathasyourexperiencebeenlikeabroad,hereintheUS?
I’vebeenintheUSforalmostayearandahalfnow,andIhavetosayeverything feelsdifferent.Istruggledatfirsttogetusedtothesystem,butafterafew months,Imanagedtoadapt.Thegoodthinghereisthediversity,itteachespeople unityinspiteoftheirdifferencesandvarietyofcultures.I’mthankfultohavemeta lotofkindpeoplewhoarewholeheartedlywillingtohelpyouandpushyouforward. Whatarethebiggestdifferencesyounoticedaboutdentistryinyour homelandvstheUS?
Dentistryhereisverysystematicandorganized,it’smorepragmatic;youonlymove forwardaftermakingsurethatyouhaveestablishedagoodbasefirst.Diagnosing andtreatmentplanningareoneofthehighlyimportantstepsbecauseinformed consentismandatorytohaveeitherverbaloronfilebeforetreatmentis commenced.Dentiststrytoavoidanyliabilitiestothebestoftheirabilities.In schools,theytrytoteachdentalstudentstohaveevidenceandjustificationfor everydecisiontheytake,andtheirclinicsessionshaveamoreintegratedand comprehensiveapproach.
Ifyouwereadentalinstrument,whichonewouldyoubeandwhy?
IfIwereadentalinstrument,Iwouldbeanintraoralmirror,becausealotoftimes wedependonxraystodiagnose,orevenstartdrillingassoonasweseesomething, butIfeelthatthemirroristhemostimportantinstrumentbecauseyoualwaysneed toseetodiagnose,tocheckocclusion,tocheckfordecay,andtoevaluateyour ownworkaftereveryprocedure.Sometimeswedependondifferenttoolswhilewe havetheeasiestonealreadyinhandtohelpusinourdecision-makingprocessin everystepoftheprocedure.
WhataretwotipsyouwouldliketosharewithotherIDPstudentsseekingto applytodentalschool?
IwouldadvisefutureInternationaldentistswhoareseekingtoapplytodental schoolstofocusontheirprofilemorethancompareittoothers.Itisneverjust aboutthedegrees,yearsofexperience,oreventheGPA,youneedtobuildyour ownprofilethewayitfitsyouandyourpersonality,focusonyourstrengthpointsin yourpersonalstatement,andbelieveinyourself.
Lastly,Iwouldtellthemnottolosehopetryingtogetintotheinternational program,whetheritisyourfirst,second,orthirdcycle,itisnevertoolateandyou arenotbeingjudgedforit.Rememberyouarenotjudgedforyourfailures,butyou arebeingjudgedforhowyouovercameanydifficultiesyoufacedinyourjourney.
IDP SPOTLIGHT
DR. ERIKA LUNA VILCHIS
What has your experience been like abroad, here in the US?
As an international dentist, I must say that coming to the US has been a fascinating adventure. The cultural differences, language nuances, and clinical practices have kept me on my toes. One of the most significant challenges I faced was adapting to the language and
abbreviations used in American dentistry. Since in my country, Mexico, dentistry is only taught in Spanish, it's astonishing how differently we can express the same concept in our native languages
What are the biggest differences you noticed about dentistry in your homeland vs the US?
Now, let’s talk about the differences between dentistry in my homeland and the US. In my country, Mexico, we focus more on prevention and conservative dentistry, whereas in the US, there seems to be a greater emphasis on restorative dentistry. I’ve noticed that patients in the US tend to seek more extensive treatment options, whereas in my country, patients often prioritize prevention and maintenance.
If you were a dental instrument, which one would you be and why? I'd be a handpiece, a versatile instrument that can tackle different situations, from the simplest and gentle to the most complex and challenging. I'd be designed to adapt to various scenarios, just like how dental students need to adapt to diverse clinical situations and patient needs.
What are two tips you would like to share with other IDP students seeking to apply to dental school?
I would like to share two tips with fellow IDP students seeking to apply to dental school in the US: Get familiar with American English, literature, and even slang can be quite different from what you’re used to. Be yourself, you’re already good enough! It's easy to get caught up in trying to present a perfect image or overachieve in every aspect. But remember, dental school is looking for individuals who are genuine, passionate about their profession, and willing to learn and grow.
THE GOLD STANDARD DRUMMER
Who are you and what is your hobby? I’mDr.StevenGoldandmyhobbyisdrumming.
How and when did you get into drumming? I started banging on a drumset of pots and pans when I was 2 so my Mom told my Grandfather to comegetme.HetookmetomyGreatGrandmother’s house where he had a drum kit. We could play as loudasIwantedbecausemyGreatGrandmotherwas hardofhearing!
DR. GOLD
What style of music do you play?
Howdidyoulearntoplay? Didyoutakelessons? Inevertooklessons.Ijustlearnedtoplay byear.ListeningtobandsIlikedatthe time,likeGunsandRoses,andtriedto playalong.
Tellusaboutyourexperienceplaying inbands?
ThefirsttimeIplayedwithsomeoneelse, itwasthisguyEddie,myclassmateand friendfromdentalschool.Hewasan insanelytalentedguitaristandIcouldplay “KnockinonHeaven’sDoor”!Wecalled ourselvesDrainingFistula,becausethat waswhatwelearnedaboutthatdayin OralSurgeryclass!
AfterdentalschoolIgotintoamore seriousband.Wepracticedalotand playedalloverHollywoodandL.A.I’ve beeninbandseversince,inbothL.A.and Portland.
Well, I love playing all different styles because it makes your drumming more diverse. I’ve even played Blues! But my wheelhouse is anything loud, hard and heavy; rock, metal, doom and sludge metal. I even played in a Horror Punk band!
THE GOLD STANDARD DRUMMER
Didyoueverplaywithanyonefamous?
We opened for some bands that if you were into the doom/sludge/stoner rock scene you might know. But the most famous person I rubbed shoulders with was this guy Dustin Diamond. He played Screech on this show Saved by the Bell. He was in another band that we used to be buddies and play shows with. Dustin was one of the nicest, coolest, fun loving people I’ve known (RIP Dustin).
One night my band was playing and my cymbal stand broke. Dustin came up on stage and held the stand in place for the rest of our set. While I was playing I kept thinking to myself, “I’m playing in a heavy metal band in Hollywood and Screech is holding my cymbal stand! Can life get any stranger?”
What has been your favorite experience playing in a band?
Playing a show, and all the hard work to get to that point is an amazing experience. Like dentistry, you have to love the grind. But my favorite thing has probably been meeting so many unbelievably cool and interesting people from all over the world. Most of them are just kind, good-hearted, and fun people.
What is your current band?
I’m “in between” bands right now. One of the biggest challenges playing in bands is finding bandmates who have similar schedules, goals, and are in my location. I’ve been lucky to have found great bandmates over the years; they are all special to me. As for my next band…I’ll keep you all posted!
SPOTLIGHT TRAVIS TRUONG board member
Tell us about yourself!
I am a First-Generation Vietnamese American who was born in Santa Clara, CA but grew up wrestling alligators in Lake County, FL. I earned my B.S. in Biological Sciences from UC Santa Barbara and am also a proud alumnus of the Cal State East Bay, PHAP Post Baccalaureate Program. Now, I'm thrilled to be pursuing my dental education at WesternU College of Dental Medicine!
Can you share a bit about your journey to dental school and what inspired you to pursue dentistry as a career? My journey to dental school began my sophomore year of undergrad after meeting my first dentist mentor following an accident. I worked as a dental assistant for 4 years, honing my skills and reaffirming my passion for dentistry. Afterward, I enrolled in a Post-Baccalaureate Program at Cal State East Bay, becoming a more well-rounded applicant with new experience.
Many factors inspired my passion for dentistry, but the most memorable was volunteering as a dental assistant in a mobile clinic. I met a Vietnamese patient who was scared about his cleaning. Speaking to him in Vietnamese and explaining the procedure, he felt more at ease and even excited. This experience showed me that dentistry revolves around building relationships. Creating trusting relationships and smiles makes this the only career I want.
What motivated you to get involved with ASDA and what has been your most memorable experience with ASDA so far?
I decided to get involved with ASDA after meeting all the upperclassmen during my D1 year. I thought that the camaraderie and involvement in organized dentistry were both very appealing. The most memorable experience I've had with ASDA thus far was the ASDA Western Regional Conference in San Diego, where I got to hang out with my classmates and network with students from other schools outside of an academic setting. Connecting with so many like-minded peers and learning about advancements in dentistry was so much fun.
What advice would you give to incoming dental students?
Enjoy your time before dental school—travel, try new things, and build good habits like eating healthy and exercising. These habits will reduce stress, improve time management, and maintain your well-being during the rigorous journey ahead.
What’s something people don’t know about you that you’d like to share?
I bite my string cheese.
Please share a quote that has had an impact on you personally or professionally.
"Empty
your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water... Be water, my friend."
- Bruce Lee
This quote has made me versatile and adaptable to any situation, which is crucial both in life and in a constantly evolving dental practice.
SPOTLIGHT GREGORY BAI lobby day
What were some moments that inspired you the most during Lobby Day?
During Lobby Day, several inspiring moments stood out. One memorable experience was watching the 2024 eclipse with excited senators’ staffers and ASDA students. This created a unique and memorable community moment, fostering a sense of unity and common purpose. It was inspiring to see dental professionals and
political figures from diverse backgrounds come together with a shared goal: advocating for better policies and improved patient care.
Could you share with us some things you learned from that weekend?
From that weekend, I learned the power of collective advocacy and the importance of being well-informed about legislative processes. Understanding how policies such as grants, hiring practices, and other laws affect the dental profession was eye-opening. It became clear how crucial it is for dental professionals to have a voice in policymaking to meet patient needs and ensure the profession evolves positively. Networking with other professionals highlighted the value of shared knowledge and experiences in driving best practices and innovations in healthcare.
What is one issue impacting our profession that concerns you and how would you wish this issue were approached?
One issue that deeply concerns me is the rising burnout rates among healthcare professionals, impacting both their well-being and the quality of patient care. Addressing this requires better mental health support, reasonable working hours, adequate staffing, and a supportive work environment. I wish this issue were approached with more urgency and comprehensive strategies involving systemic changes, rather than temporary fixes, to ensure the workforce's sustainability and health.
SPOTLIGHT EMILY MCGOWAN lobby day
What moments inspired you the most during Lobby Day?
During Lobby Day, I was inspired by the positive impact of previously passed bills through ASDA lobby day efforts. Hearing Southern California dentists discuss their concerns for the dental field and their patients
was motivating. Their advocacy encouraged me to consider becoming a lobbyist to improve the dental field for both current patients and future dentists.
Could you share some things you learned from that weekend?
That weekend, I learned a great deal about dental insurance, particularly through discussions about the Dental and Optometric Care Access Act. This act aims to prevent dental and vision plans from dictating fees for services not covered by insurance, which I view as a significant overreach by insurance companies. Such practices force dentists to charge patients without insurance higher fees to keep their practices afloat.
What is one issue impacting our profession that concerns you and how would you wish this issue were approached? One major issue impacting our profession is the rising cost of dental school, which increases yearly. The continuous rise in undergraduate college prices also makes it financially challenging to apply for dental school, leading to significant debt for those who attend, often lasting decades after graduation.
west regional
CONFERENCE SPOTLIGHT KHAWLA ABUAQEL
Describe your experience at the conference. The ASDA West Regional Conference in San Diego was my first dental conference, so I did
After arriving, it felt surreal to be in an environment with multiple students who were at the same stage of their careers as me. I would describe my experience at the conference as insightful, thanks to the wealth of knowledge I gained from the guest speakers.
What were your expectations, if any, before attending the conference?
While attending the conference, my goal was to connect with dental students from other schools and gain insights into their experiences.
What was the most memorable part of your experience at the conference?
The highlight of my experience at the conference was running into students from other schools who I had met at interviews a year before. It was incredible seeing them in a new setting, transitioning from dental school interviewees to dental students attending an ASDA Regional Conference.
What were the key takeaways or lessons you learned from the conference?
A key lesson I learned from the conference was how to properly approach running a dental practice. I noted the importance of being business-minded when venturing into a career in dentistry.
How did the conference contribute to your professional development in dentistry?
The conference was a great way to practice how to present myself professionally as a dental student. I was a bit shy in the beginning, but soon realized that this was a great opportunity to network and socialize. As a result, I began forging connections and friendships with students from other schools, that may evolve into future professional relationships!
LOOKING BACK AT 23-24 Conferences
national leadership & annual session
CONFERENCE SPOTLIGHT
EMILY NGUYEN
Undoubtedly, one of my favorite parts about being in ASDA is experiencing true ASDA Fever at conferences. NLC and Annual Session are unique because it gathers dental students from every dental school in the country. These experiences helped me gain perspective and appreciation for our field on a larger scale. I always opt to attend seminars that discuss finances and business since these topics aren’t emphasized in our curriculum.
As I start to plan my life/career outside of school, I find myself grateful to have gotten these experiences. It adds a sense of security knowing that I will be equipped with knowledge as my graduation gets closer and closer. If you haven’t gone to an ASDA conference before, I 100% recommend applying!
BY: NICK HORNSBERRY, NDCCDP
DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION MANAGER
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion in Dentistry
HeartlandDentalissteadfastin itsmissiontostandalongside supporteddoctorsandtheir teams,deliveringtop-tierdental careandexperiencestotheir communities.Werecognizethat nurturingdiversitywithinthe communityisnotjust advantageous,butimperativefor achievingthismission.Our pledgeistofosteran environmentwhereevery individual,irrespectiveof backgroundorethnicity,notonly feelswelcomedbuttrulyvalued, respected,andincluded.
AtHeartlandDental,ourmission isclear:westandshoulderto shoulderwithsupporteddoctors andtheirteamstodeliverthe highestqualitydentalcareand experiencestothecommunities weserve.Andwefirmlybelieve thatnurturingdiversitywithinour communityisnotjustbeneficial
butessentialtoachievingthis mission.Ourunwavering commitmentistocultivatean environmentwhereevery individual,ofanybackgroundor identity,isnotjustwelcomedbut feelsvalued,respected,andtruly included.Andasfuturedentists, creatingwelcoming environmentswillbecrucialfor youtoo.
Employee-Led Communities:
Making Inclusion
Tangible
Rootedinourcorevaluesof Execute,Honor,Achieve, Collaborate,Balance,and Celebrate,wetranslatethese principlesintoactioneveryday. Collaboration,inparticular,isat theheartofourorganization. Weworkdiligently,intelligently, andhandinhand,always championingdiversityand inclusion.
As the years have passed, our dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) has also evolved and expanded.
One striking embodiment of this commitment is the establishment of our Employee-Led Communities (ELCs). These groups, open to all Heartland Dental team members, celebrate cultural diversity, fuel professional development, and drive innovative ideas.
Presently, we are proud to have six thriving ELCs: the Black Employee Network, Gender and Sexuality Alliance, Hispanic/Latin Comunidad, Veterans Employee Community, Women in Dentistry, and Asian and Pacific Islander Connection. These groups are open to any Heartland Dental supported doctor or team member who wishes to join, and their collective strength has grown to over 600 members.
Building an Inclusive Future
BY: NICK HORNSBERRY, NDCCDP DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION MANAGER
AspartofourmultifacetedDE&Iinitiatives,HeartlandDentalisenhancingtraining programsforrecruitment,hiring,andongoingeducation.Ourthree-partrecruiter training program evaluates our efforts and identifies opportunities to deepen partnerships with a diverse range of colleges and universities. Additionally, company-wide training is being updated to help all employees understand and mitigateunconsciousbiasintheworkplace.
Our DEI Vision and Mission are clear: we strive to build a world-class, inclusive culturewithinHeartlandDentalandthefieldofdentistry.Weareonajourneyto create an environment where everyone, of any background, feels safe, valued, respected,andincludedinallaspectsoftheiridentity.HeartlandDental'sjourney towards diversity, equity, and inclusion is guided by a powerful vision and unwavering commitment. Through our Employee-Led Communities, we not only celebrate diversity but actively embrace it as a cornerstone of our success. Together,wearebuildingamoreinclusiveandcompassionatedentalcommunity.
Asfuturedentists,youhavethepowertoshapeamoreinclusivedentallandscape. Get involved in diversity initiatives, challenge stereotypes, and celebrate differences.Remember,creatingawelcomingenvironmentforeveryonebenefits bothyourpatientsandyourcareer.
Heartland Dental's journey is proof that embracing diversity leads to a stronger, more compassionate dental community. Join us in building a brighter future for everyone!
5StepstoAceYour AssociateshipInterview
by Aspen Dental
Enteringtheworkforceasanewlyminted dentistisanexcitingyetdauntingprospect. Yourfirstassociateshipcansetthetonefor yourprofessionalcareer,influencing everythingfromyourearningstotheskillsyou canacquire.Toensureyoumakethemostof thiscriticalstep,we'llexploretheessential aspectsofnailingthatassociateship interview.Whetheryou'readentalgraduate, anewdentist,oranaspiringassociate,these insightsareinvaluable.
Step 1: Understanding the Role
Theassociateshipismorethanastepping stonefromgraduationtopracticeownership —it'satimeforgrowth,learning,and professionaldevelopment.Understandingthe nuancesofthisroleandhowitalignswith yourcareertrajectoryisfundamentalto success.Here'showtoapproachit:
DelvingintoYourExpectations
Beforeyourinterview,takethetimetodefine yourcareergoals.Whatdoyouhopeto achieveinthenextfiveortenyears?Howcan theassociateshipsupportthoseambitions? Maybeyou'relookingtobuildyourclinical
AligningwithYourPotentialEmployer
Intheinterview,expressyoureagernessto contributetothepractice'smissionandvision. Askaboutthegrowthopportunitieswithinthe practiceandhowyoumightfitintolong-term goals.Demonstratingthisalignmentcanset youapartasacandidatewhoisnotonly skilledbutalsohastherightattitudeand commitmenttobecomeaninvaluableteam member.
Step 2: Preparation Tips
Awell-preparedcandidateinspires confidence,showcasingprofessionalismand dedicationtotherole.Here'showtoprepfor yourassociateshipinterview:
ResearchthePractice
Familiarizeyourselfwiththepractice'shistory, services,andrecentachievements.This informationnotonlyhelpsyoutailoryour responsesbutalsogivesyoutalkingpoints duringtheinterview.Itshowsthatyouare proactiveandgenuinelyinterestedinthe position.
BrushUponInterviewEtiquette
Knowthedosanddon'tsofdentalinterviews. Dressappropriatelyinprofessionalattire, bringextracopiesofyourresumeandany supportingdocuments,andarriveearlyto makeapositivefirstimpression.Remember, theinterviewisnotjustaboutyour qualificationsbutalsoabouthowwellyouwill representthepractice.
Step3:AskingtheRightQuestions
Whiletheemployerevaluatesyourfitforthepractice, theinterviewisalsoyourchancetodiscernifthe associateshipalignswithyourgoals.Besuretoask questionsthatshedlightonthepractice'sculture, expectations,andsupportsystems:
PatientVolumeandCategories
Understandingtheaveragepatientvolumeandthe typesofcasesyoucanexpectcanprepareyouforthe workload.Inquiringaboutthisalsoshowsyour commitmenttodeliveringqualitycarewhilemeeting thepractice'sneeds.
Mentorship
Doesthepracticeofferstructuredmentorship programs?Asupportivementorcansignificantly impactyourlearningcurveandreadinesstotakeon greaterresponsibilities.Candidateswhoshowa willingnesstolearnandgrowwithinthepracticeare oftenpreferred.
PracticePhilosophy
Discusshowthepracticeapproachespatientcare andbusinessoperations.Thisunderstandingcan ensureyourvaluesalignwiththepractice's,reducing thelikelihoodofconflictsdowntheline.
CompensationandBenefits
Beclearonthefinancialpackage,andanyincentives likesigningbonuses,andunderstandthebenefits offered.Financialstabilityisimportant,butsoisa comprehensivebenefitspackagethatsupportsyour overallwell-being.
Step4:AddressingExperienceandSkills
Yourinterviewshouldfocusondemonstratinghow yourexperienceandskillsetwillbeanassettothe practice.Here'showtodothiseffectively:
RelevantExperiences
PatientInteractions
Employersprizestrongcommunicationand interpersonalskills.Usetheinterviewtohighlightany experiencesthatdemonstrateyourabilitytoconnect withpatientsandprovideapositivedental experience.
Step5:NegotiatingTerms
Asuccessfulinterviewoftenleadstothenegotiation phase.Confidence,courtesy,andclear communicationarekeytoarrivingattermsthatsatisfy bothparties.Remember:
BePreparedtoBargain
Iftheinitialofferdoesn'tquitealignwithyour expectations,don'tbeafraidtonegotiate.Research averagesalariesandbenefitsintheareato benchmarkyourrequests.
UnderstandtheContract
Beforesigning,ensureyoucomprehendeveryaspect oftheagreement,fromnon-competeclausestothe buy-inprocessifapplicable.Seeklegaladviceif you'reunsureaboutanypartofthecontract.
TheRightAssociateshipCanBeTransformative
Preparingforyourfirstassociateshipinterviewinvolves more than practicing your answers — it means understandingyourself,therole,andthepractice.By diligentlytacklingeachofthesesteps,youwillpresent yourselfasaprofessionalwhoisseriousabouttheir careerandcommittedtogrowingwiththeirfuture employer.
Inthehighlycompetitivedentalfield,theright associateshipattherighttimecanbetransformative. Putyourbestfootforward,andremember,the interviewisjustthebeginningofafruitfulcareer.Take advantageofthiswindowintothepractice'sethos andoperationstoensureyou'remakingadecision thatbenefitsbothyourprofessionaltrajectoryandthe well-beingofyourfuturepatients.
Don'tshyawayfromtheopportunitytoshapeyour careerinalignmentwithyourpassionfordentistry. JoinleadingorganizationslikeAspenDental,where youcanharnessyourpotentialandthriveinan innovativeandsupportiveenvironment.Applytoday andopenthedoortoaworldofcareerpossibilities. Visitourcareersitehere:
EXTRACT THE TOOTH
Special shout out to our amazing sponsors Special shout out to our amazing sponsors
