From classroom to clinic. My mission to serve. by Melanie

From classroom to clinic. My mission to serve. by Melanie - August 2025 Scholarship Essay

As we approach this upcoming school year, my aspiration is to continue to pursue my passion for science and engage in any opportunities I can that will help me grow both personally and academically. This semester will mark a very important step in my journey of becoming a dentist because I will begin to take steps towards studying for the entrance exam called the DAT. I will also continue to finish my volunteering hours at my local dental clinic while actively keeping my GPA up. My motivation to achieve my goal is simple. I see dentistry not just as a profession, but a platform to address the issues going on in our healthcare system. I want to be an advocate for better oral health for everyone, especially those in underserved communities. My personal volunteering experience with my dental club this past summer has been reaching out to these communities and has further solidified my choice how much more I want to keep doing this to help people. Every opportunity now gets me closer to my goal of going to dental school and I hope when I do, I can finally make a difference to those who need it the most.

Dentistry offers a unique opportunity to combine my scientific knowledge with direct, hands-on care, and I am passionate about using this field to make a positive impact on my community. The field of biology provides the foundational knowledge needed for dental school and, ultimately, to serve patients in a meaningful way. I plan to use my biology education to not only excel in dental school but also to address pressing health disparities within underserved communities. One of the most significant barriers to healthcare is access—especially in rural or economically disadvantaged areas where dental care and language barrier is often limited. By becoming a dentist, I want to provide accessible, quality dental care to these communities, ensuring that individuals who may not have regular access to a dentist can still receive the treatment and prevention they need.

In addition to clinical care, I also aim to be an advocate for oral health education. Many people are unaware of the importance of regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene, and as a dentist, I hope to promote public health initiatives that increase awareness of these issues. By partnering with local schools, community centers, and nonprofits, I can lead educational campaigns and free dental checkups for underserved populations. I also want to work with organizations that provide dental care to homeless populations, as oral health is often neglected in these environments.

While I may not know what’s in store yet, I know that I will make the most of this school year. By fully committing to my passion and my academic studies, I know that my experiences will bring me closer to achieving my dreams as student. My motivations stem from seeking out and helping others be a better version of themselves. I feel an obligation to be a voice to those who are neglected in healthcare and the only way to do that will be through academic growth. This semester will be another opportunity to grow into the kind of dentist that I aspire to be and strengthen my commitment to make a positive impact in people’s lives.