My name is Amelia, and I have a two-year-old daughter named Amora. Before I had my daughter I had no idea what I wanted to do career wise. I was working in retail management for eight years, but I knew that is not what I wanted to do long-term. While I was on maternity leave I decided to take dental assisting classes because dentistry was always something that interested me. A week after receiving my certification I got a job in dental assisting and have been doing it for about three years now. My biggest motivation through this transition has been my daughter and will continue to be. I am planned to graduate with my associate of science May 2025 and transfer to a four-year university to work towards a bachelor's degree of biology. My goal is to apply for a dental school after receiving my bachelor's degree. In the future I would like to work as a general dentist in public health. I would like to apply my skills to help the community and also educate the community of the importance of oral health. Some may not have the finances to get things such as medical care, behavioral health assistance, or dental care, but working in public dentistry would be a great opportunity to help individuals in these aspects. I also hope to return to my colleges and speak with classes to educate them about the different opportunities within dentistry that one can pursue and hope to be an experienced trusted advisor to all. I will be the first generation in my family to receive any degree. I hope to build a foundation for not only my family but for my daughter and her future family. It has not been an easy road and there have been challenges I have had to face. Going to school full time, working full time, being a full time mommy, and still finding the time volunteer in my community has not been easy, but I have enjoyed my journey. I have realized that not everyone has the same journey and follow the same path as you but that is okay. Everyone has a different story to tell but I am proud of mine. I am 31 years old and still continuing my education so there is no timeline. I made my own and I am proud of where I am today and where I am going.