My passion for dental hygiene comes from the ability to make a meaningful impact on people’s health while also building trust and comfort with every patient. I am drawn to the preventative side of dentistry and the opportunity to educate patients, helping them understand their oral health before small issues become serious problems. Dental hygiene is not just about cleanings, it is about creating a safe environment, recognizing early signs of disease, and helping patients feel confident and cared for. My commitment to this field was strengthened through real world experience and personal challenges. After not being accepted into a dental hygiene program in 2025, I was forced to reflect on my path. Instead of giving up, I chose to grow. I spent the following year fully immersing myself in dentistry, working alongside general dentists, hygienists, endodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons. Through these experiences, I saw how every role contributes to patient care and how important it is to stay attentive, compassionate, and adaptable. That setback ultimately confirmed that dental hygiene is exactly where I am meant to be. At the same time, my journey has required me to step far outside of my comfort zone. As a first generation college student, I moved to Utah two years ago on my own to complete my prerequisites at Weber State University. Now, I am taking the next step by beginning my dental hygiene program at Utah College of Dental Hygiene. While I come from a loving and supportive family, I have navigated this journey independently without financial support. This experience has been both exciting and challenging, pushing me to become more independent, disciplined, and resilient. Financial preparedness plays a critical role in my ability to achieve my goals. Attending a private institution is a significant investment, and while I am committed to my education, the financial burden can be stressful. Scholarships like this are incredibly meaningful because they provide not only financial relief but also reassurance that my hard work and dedication are recognized. This support would allow me to stay focused on my education and fully commit to becoming the best dental hygienist I can be. Looking ahead, I envision myself contributing to the field by promoting preventative care, educating patients, and creating a positive and comfortable experience for those who may feel anxious about dental visits. I also hope to use my experiences to encourage others who may face setbacks or challenges in their own journeys. My path has not been easy, but it has shaped me into someone who is determined, adaptable, and passionate about making a difference. I am confident that these qualities will allow me to succeed in dental hygiene and positively impact both my patients and my community.

Not getting into the dental hygiene program in 2025 was hard to accept at first, but it became one of the most defining learning experiences of my life. Instead of staying in that moment, I chose to grow from it. I used that time to fully immerse myself in dentistry, learning from as many specialties and professionals as possible. Over the past year, I have worked alongside general dentists, dental hygienists, endodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons. Each experience strengthened my passion for dental hygiene and confirmed my decision to pursue a bachelor’s degree with a broader vision for my future. Working in general dentistry showed me how critical prevention and patient education are. From hygienists, I learned the importance of building trust and helping patients feel comfortable. In endodontics, I saw patients come in with severe pain and leave with relief, which showed me the impact of compassionate care. Periodontics taught me that many patients are unaware of disease until it becomes advanced, reinforcing the importance of early detection. In oral surgery, I learned that teamwork is everything, especially in high pressure situations. These experiences shaped my desire to pursue a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene because I want to do more than provide clinical care. I want to educate, advocate, and improve access to oral healthcare in my community. I will be attending a private school in Utah, Utah College of Dental Hygiene, which will challenge me academically and help me grow into the provider I aspire to be. With a bachelor’s degree, I hope to expand my role beyond the operatory through community outreach, prevention education, and mentorship. Academically, I have remained committed to my goals despite setbacks. Being denied entry into the program strengthened my work ethic and determination. I took initiative to gain hands on experience, learn from diverse professionals, and continue building my knowledge. This reflects my leadership through action by choosing growth over discouragement and staying focused on my long term goals. Receiving a dental hygiene scholarship would mean so much to me. Opportunities like this are rare in this field, and they are truly appreciated. This support would ease the financial burden of my education and serve as encouragement that my dedication is seen and valued. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a dental hygienist who brings knowledge, empathy, and purpose into every patient interaction. This past year has shown me that setbacks can be redirections, and I now feel more prepared than ever to succeed in a bachelor’s program and make a meaningful impact in the dental profession.

Mental health has shaped my understanding of people in ways that go far beyond textbooks or classrooms. Through my own experiences and through witnessing struggles in the lives of people around me, I have learned that mental health is often invisible, yet it affects nearly every aspect of a person's life. It influences how people see themselves, how they interact with others, and how they navigate everyday challenges. For much of my life, I did not personally struggle with mental health challenges. It was not until I was placed in a vulnerable situation that I began to understand how quickly life circumstances can affect a person’s emotional well being. Moving to a new state for college meant leaving behind my family, my support system, and the comfort of the place I had always known. Suddenly I was navigating adulthood on my own while managing the responsibilities that come with being a college student. That transition came with many new pressures. I was learning how to balance school, work, finances, and the expectations I placed on myself to succeed. At the same time, I was also navigating life as a young woman and as someone who is half Black while adjusting to new environments and social dynamics. Without my family nearby to lean on when challenges arose, I often felt the weight of having to figure everything out on my own. During that time, I began to understand how important mental and emotional balance truly is. Instead of allowing the stress and uncertainty to overwhelm me, I started looking inward. I found peace through meditation, reflection, and strengthening my faith. These practices helped me slow down, quiet my thoughts, and reconnect with a sense of purpose and stability within myself. They reminded me that even during uncertain moments, I was not alone. These experiences have shaped the way I approach relationships with others. I have become more patient and more aware that everyone carries struggles that may not be visible. Instead of assuming someone is simply having a bad day, I try to approach people with compassion and understanding. This perspective has strengthened my relationships and helped me value empathy in my interactions with others. My journey has also influenced my goals in healthcare. As I pursue a career in dental hygiene, I recognize that health is not only physical but also emotional and psychological. Many patients enter healthcare settings feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or afraid. I hope to create an environment where patients feel comfortable, respected, and supported, because sometimes a small moment of kindness can make a meaningful difference. My understanding of mental health has shown me that resilience often grows during the most challenging moments. By speaking openly about these experiences and encouraging honest conversations, we can continue breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and help others feel less alone in their own journeys.

Not getting into the dental hygiene program in 2025 was difficult to accept at first, but it became one of the most important learning experiences of my life. Instead of sitting in defeat, I used that year to learn as much as I could about dentistry and patient care. I worked alongside general dentists, hygienists, endodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons, gaining a deeper understanding of the field and the many ways dental professionals improve people’s lives. While each specialty had a different role, they all shared the same purpose: helping patients feel better and improving their quality of life. Watching patients walk in with pain, fear, or embarrassment and leave feeling relieved and hopeful showed me the powerful impact dental care can have on a person’s confidence and overall well-being. However, I also noticed that many patients come into dental offices feeling anxious, judged, or worried about the cost of care. For some people, the dental chair is not a place of comfort. That is something I hope to change. As a half Black and half White woman who was raised by a single parent and is a first generation college student, I understand how important it is to feel respected and safe in healthcare environments. Representation and trust matter. My goal is to create an environment where every patient feels comfortable, heard, and valued regardless of their background. I believe making a positive impact on the world can begin with something as simple as helping someone smile with confidence. Oral health is closely connected to self esteem, overall health, and quality of life. As a future dental hygienist, I want every patient who sits in my chair to feel supported and cared for. I want them to know they are receiving honest care and that their health matters more than anything else. Dentistry can be intimidating, but I hope to help change that perception. By building trust with my patients, educating them about their health, and creating a welcoming environment, I want to make dental visits feel less frightening and more empowering. This past year taught me that growth sometimes comes from unexpected setbacks. The version of myself last year was not yet ready for the program. I needed time to grow, learn, and understand the deeper impact dentistry can have on people’s lives. That experience strengthened my purpose and confirmed that this is the path I am meant to pursue. Through compassion, education, and trust, I hope to make a positive impact by helping people feel confident in their smiles and respected in their care.

Facing Discomfort and Learning to Speak Up Everyone experiences adversity at some point in their life, but sometimes those moments are not large events. Instead, they are small interactions that leave a lasting impact. One moment that shaped my perspective happened during a visit to Walmart. While using the self checkout, I noticed an employee watching me very closely. He walked over and stood directly beside me, observing everything I did while I scanned my items. The situation made me feel uncomfortable and singled out. As someone who is biracial, I could not help but wonder if I was being viewed differently because of how I looked. Afterward, I talked to a few coworkers about what had happened. At first, some of them said it probably was not about race and suggested that maybe the employee was simply doing his job. One coworker even responded with the phrase, “welcome to my life,” because she is married to a Latino man. That moment stood out to me. I realized that while people may care and want to understand, there is a difference between experiencing discrimination and observing it from the outside. I explained that while others can empathize, they cannot fully understand the fear or uncertainty that can come with being treated differently because of your identity. Although the situation was uncomfortable, it helped me grow. Instead of ignoring how I felt, I chose to speak honestly about my experience and explain why it mattered to me. That moment taught me the importance of communicating respectfully while still standing up for myself. It also helped me understand that many people simply lack awareness rather than having harmful intentions. By having open conversations, we can help others become more thoughtful and aware of how their words and actions affect people around them. This experience shaped me by strengthening my confidence in speaking up about difficult topics. It reminded me that adversity does not always come in obvious forms, but even small moments can teach valuable lessons about empathy, understanding, and resilience. If I could give advice to someone facing a similar situation, I would encourage them to trust their feelings and communicate openly. It is okay to explain why something made you uncomfortable, even if others initially do not understand. Honest conversations can create awareness and help people grow. Adversity can be frustrating, but it can also be an opportunity to build strength and understanding. Moments like this have helped me become more confident in advocating for myself and encouraging respectful conversations about experiences that are sometimes difficult to discuss.

Relationships play a powerful role in shaping both my personal values and my long term professional goals. I believe that meaningful connections with others help guide our decisions, strengthen our sense of purpose, and influence the direction we choose in life. Whether those relationships are romantic, familial, friendships, or professional connections, they help us grow and remind us that our success is often built alongside others. In romantic relationships, I believe one of the most important factors for long term success is compatibility. Finding someone who shares similar values, ambitions, and long term goals creates a strong foundation for growth together. When two people are aligned in what they want out of life, they can encourage each other to pursue their dreams while building a shared future. For me personally, faith is also a significant part of that compatibility. My relationship with Christ guides the way I approach life, challenges, and the way I treat others. Because of this, it would be very important for me to find a partner who shares similar beliefs and values so that we can support each other spiritually as well as personally. However, relationships are not only about similarities. The strongest relationships also encourage growth. Being in a healthy relationship means learning from one another, challenging each other to become better people, and offering support through both successes and difficult moments. Life rarely follows a perfectly planned path, and having someone who understands your goals and believes in your purpose can make challenges feel more manageable. In that sense, relationships become a partnership in building a meaningful life rather than simply pursuing individual success. Relationships also play a major role in shaping my professional goals, particularly my desire to become a dental hygienist. One of the main reasons I am drawn to dental hygiene is the opportunity to build genuine, long term relationships with patients. Many individuals experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist, and I believe that having a provider they trust can make a significant difference in their experience. Dental hygienists often see patients regularly over the years, which creates the opportunity to develop strong relationships built on trust, consistency, and compassion. Working in dentistry has allowed me to observe how meaningful these relationships can be. Patients often open up about their concerns, their health, and even aspects of their personal lives when they feel comfortable with their provider. These interactions remind me that healthcare is not only about technical skill but also about empathy and human connection. A patient who feels respected and understood is more likely to stay engaged in their care and maintain healthier habits. As a future dental hygienist, I hope to create an environment where patients feel welcomed, valued, and comfortable during their appointments. I want patients to feel that they are more than just another name on a schedule. Building trust over time allows providers to better understand their patients and support them in improving their oral health. These long term relationships can also help reduce fear and create a more positive experience for people who may have previously avoided dental care. Ultimately, relationships shape who we become and how we pursue our goals. They teach us empathy, patience, and the importance of supporting one another. Whether it is building a life with a partner who shares my values or developing trust with patients throughout my career, relationships will continue to guide my purpose. I believe that success is not only measured by personal accomplishments but also by the positive and meaningful connections we build along the way.

I believe what makes me stand out as a scholarship candidate is my resilience, dedication, and unique perspective as a young woman of mixed Black and White heritage raised by a single mother. Growing up in predominantly white communities in Montana and Utah, I have learned to navigate spaces where I am often the only person of color. This experience has shaped me into someone who is observant, empathetic, and committed to creating understanding and connection in every environment I am part of. For the first three years of college, I took a full course load while working two or more jobs. I did this not only to support myself financially but also to avoid being a burden to my family, even when I knew they could help. Balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities has taught me the value of perseverance, time management, and self-reliance. It has also given me a deep appreciation for the sacrifices my mother has made to provide for my brother and me. Her strength and selflessness inspire me every day to work hard and strive toward my goals, not just for myself, but to honor the opportunities she has fought to give me. In addition to my dedication to my education and family, I am a passionate ally to the LGBTQ+ community. My roommate is a member of this community and has educated me about their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Through our friendship, I have learned to advocate, listen, and stand up for inclusion, equity, and understanding in my everyday life. Being an ally has strengthened my commitment to building a world where everyone feels seen and supported, whether in school, work, or my future professional career. My goal is to become a dental hygienist, and I am motivated by the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives through healthcare. I have spent the past year learning about dentistry from multiple perspectives, from general dentists to hygienists to specialists, and each experience has reinforced my commitment to patient care, empathy, and continuous learning. I want to bring that same dedication to my patients, ensuring they feel comfortable, informed, and cared for in every visit. I believe I deserve this scholarship because it would recognize not only my hard work and resilience but also my commitment to my education, my family, and my community. I have navigated challenges that required independence, discipline, and empathy, all while supporting myself and remaining engaged with the people around me. I hope to continue using my education to give back, through healthcare, advocacy, and mentorship and this scholarship would make it possible for me to focus fully on my studies and future career without being weighed down by financial barriers. What distinguishes me from other applicants is my combination of lived experience, work ethic, cultural perspective, and commitment to both personal and community growth. I am someone who has learned to thrive independently, support those around me, and remain dedicated to my goals even when the odds feel stacked against me. Receiving this scholarship would not only support my education but also affirm that the work I have put into building my future and uplifting others is seen and valued.

I have been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I watched her evolve on shows like Girl Meets World and Sofia the First, and it’s been incredible to see her career grow alongside me. What I admire most about Sabrina isn’t just her talent, but her dedication and work ethic. She proves that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. From acting to singing to performing on a global stage, she has shown that following your passions and working hard can open doors to opportunities you never imagined. Sabrina’s music is another reason she resonates so much with me. Her songs are not only fun and catchy, but also empowering. She sings about self-confidence, growth, and embracing who you are, messages that feel really personal and motivating to my generation. Her performances are full of energy and personality, and she always seems to put her heart into every song. Her style, both musically and personally, is unique and memorable. I love how she blends bold fashion choices with her artistic vision, creating a signature look that’s instantly recognizable. Beyond entertainment, Sabrina Carpenter has inspired me personally. Watching her rise from Disney Channel shows to international fame reminds me that success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, persistence, and belief in yourself. I’ve taken that lesson into my own life, learning to stay determined in school, work, and my personal goals. She’s proof that even when challenges arise, dedication and passion can lead to something incredible. Sabrina has also impacted my generation in a way that goes beyond just fame or talent. She represents a new wave of artists who are multifaceted, genuine, and relatable. She encourages young people to chase their dreams, stay true to themselves, and embrace creativity. Knowing someone like her exists in the entertainment world makes me feel more empowered to pursue my own dreams, whatever they may be. In short, I am a fan of Sabrina Carpenter not just because she is talented or stylish, but because she is inspiring. She demonstrates that anything is possible when you work hard and stay true to yourself. From her music to her acting to her overall presence in the industry, she has made a lasting impression on me and countless others. Her career is more than entertainment, it’s a lesson in perseverance, confidence, and authenticity, and for that, I will always admire her.

Challenge Name: “Toothbrush Tag” For this lighthearted challenge, contestants compete in pairs to “catch cavities” and clean the villa using teamwork, communication, and a little bit of silly chaos. The villa is scattered with small plush “cavities,” and each team gets a soft foam toothbrush to use as their cleaning tool. The twist is that one partner is blindfolded while the other guides them verbally. The blindfolded partner must tap the plush cavities with the toothbrush as their partner calls out directions. Halfway through the challenge, the teams switch roles so both contestants get a turn blindfolded. The goal is to find and “clean” as many cavities as possible within the time limit. Teams are awarded points for the number of cavities cleaned, speed, teamwork, and creativity, including any funny or dramatic moments that happen during the challenge. This challenge is simple, playful, and hilarious, which makes it perfect for Love Island. The blindfold adds suspense and unpredictability, leading to funny mistakes, silly interactions, and plenty of laughs. It also encourages contestants to communicate, cooperate, and trust each other, which can spark flirty or fun connections. Because it’s easy to understand and visually entertaining, viewers of all ages will enjoy watching the chaos unfold. “Toothbrush Tag” combines physical activity, humor, and teamwork, all while adding a unique dental twist to the show’s lineup of challenges. Plus everyone can dress up!! The woman will be SEXY dental hygienists and the men will be SEXY Dentists!!!

Not getting into the dental hygiene program in 2025 was difficult to accept at first, but it quickly became one of the most valuable learning experiences of my life. Instead of dwelling on disappointment, I chose to use this time to learn as much as possible about the dental field. My goal was to explore every area of dentistry and to learn from professionals with different backgrounds, experiences, and approaches. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of working with general dentists, hygienists, endodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons. Each has taught me something meaningful about patient care and about myself. Working in general dentistry showed me the critical role of prevention and education. General dentists often see patients first, so their focus on identifying small issues before they become major problems is essential. Observing hygienists, I learned the value of building trust and rapport with patients, helping them feel comfortable and cared for in the chair. Endodontists taught me the impact of truly relieving someone’s pain; I witnessed patients arrive with unbearable toothaches and leave with tears of relief after their procedures. Working alongside a periodontist, I saw how patients often do not feel pain or recognize a problem until it becomes serious. These experiences highlighted the importance of attention to detail and clear communication with patients. In oral surgery, I learned that teamwork is essential, especially when procedures become complex. What stood out most through these experiences was realizing that each professional has their own story, education, and approach to dentistry, yet all share the same goal: providing the best care possible. Learning from such a variety of individuals has taught me to stay open-minded, value every role in dentistry, and understand how collaboration enhances patient outcomes. As I continue my dental hygiene education, I plan to carry this perspective with me. I want to remain curious and learn from everyone around me. Whether it’s recognizing early signs of periodontal disease, identifying symptoms that may require a root canal, or advising patients on routine care, I understand that every piece of knowledge connects to better patient care. In my future career, I hope to embody this mindset daily. I aim to collaborate effectively, support patients through fear or discomfort, and continue growing through learning. This past year taught me that the version of myself last year was not yet ready for the program. I needed this time to grow, to experience dentistry from every angle, and to work alongside skilled professionals who challenged and inspired me. I am grateful for this opportunity, and I feel prepared to become a dental hygienist who brings knowledge, empathy, and purpose to every patient I meet.

As I pursue my education and work toward my career goals, I have spent a great deal of time carefully considering the financial responsibilities that come with student loan debt. I have taken out loans to help cover the cost of my education, and I have done extensive research to understand how my current debt compares to the income I can expect in my chosen career. Fortunately, the yearly earnings in my field roughly align with the amount of debt I have taken on, which makes repayment achievable with responsible planning. However, managing this financial burden has not been easy, especially because my family is unable to provide support for my college expenses. Growing up, my mother has been my biggest role model. She is the most hardworking and selfless person I know, raising my brother and me on her own. Her example has taught me the importance of resilience, determination, and responsibility. While her emotional support has been constant, she cannot contribute financially to my education, which has left me responsible for funding much of my own journey. Balancing school, work, and the weight of student loan debt has often been overwhelming, leaving me feeling helpless, stressed, and full of self-doubt. There have been times when the financial reality of college has affected my confidence and mental health, making me question whether I am truly capable of achieving my goals. Despite these challenges, I have remained committed to my education and my dreams. I have worked to support myself financially while continuing to focus on my studies, and I have researched every option available to minimize the impact of my loans. I have looked closely at the earning potential in my field and compared it to my current and projected debt, ensuring that I have a realistic plan to repay what I owe while still building a stable future. These steps have helped me gain perspective and confidence, but the process remains stressful and at times mentally exhausting. Receiving this scholarship would be a transformative opportunity for me. It would help alleviate some of the financial burden that has caused so much stress and self-doubt, allowing me to focus more fully on my education and career goals. More than just financial support, this scholarship would restore a sense of hope and confidence in myself, reminding me that my hard work, determination, and sacrifices are seen and valued. With this support, I could continue building a strong educational foundation and pursue my professional goals with focus and dedication, without being overwhelmed by the constant pressure of financial uncertainty. Ultimately, this scholarship would not only make my education more attainable but also empower me to regain confidence and stability in a time when I have felt mentally and emotionally stretched. It would allow me to continue investing in my future, responsibly manage my student loans, and honor the sacrifices my mother has made for our family. Receiving this support would make my goals more achievable and remind me that, even in moments of doubt and struggle, I am capable of overcoming challenges and creating a future I can be proud of.

As I pursue my education and career goals, I have taken time to seriously think about the financial responsibility that comes with student loan debt. I understand that taking out loans is a long term commitment, so I have spent a significant amount of time researching both the cost of my education and the expected income within my chosen career field. By doing this, I have been able to better understand how my future earnings will compare to the debt I have taken on in order to reach my goals. Through this research, I have learned that the average yearly salary within my career path closely aligns with the amount of student loan debt I expect to graduate with. This gives me confidence that the ratio between my income and my debt will be manageable with responsible financial planning. Knowing that my earning potential will allow me to reasonably repay my loans has helped reassure me that the investment I am making in my education will be worthwhile in the long run. I have also taken steps to reduce the amount of debt I take on whenever possible. While pursuing my education, I have worked to support myself financially and take as much of the burden off my family as I can. Being responsible for many of my own expenses has helped me learn the value of budgeting, planning ahead, and making thoughtful financial decisions. I know that these habits will be important as I begin repaying my student loans after graduation. In addition to working while in school, I have spent time searching for scholarships and financial aid opportunities that can help reduce the overall cost of my education. I believe that every bit of financial assistance helps make my goals more attainable and reduces the amount I will need to repay in the future. This is why opportunities like this scholarship are so meaningful to me. Once I begin working full time in my field, I plan to be disciplined about my finances and prioritize paying down my student loan debt as efficiently as possible. I understand that this will require careful budgeting and responsible financial decisions, but I am prepared to take on that responsibility. My education is something I deeply value, and I see it as an investment that will allow me to build a stable and successful future. Receiving this scholarship would significantly help me continue moving forward toward my goals. It would lower the total amount of student loan debt I will carry after graduation and make repayment even more achievable. Most importantly, it would allow me to stay focused on my education and career path while continuing to build a strong financial future.

The person who has supported me the most throughout my educational journey is my mother. She is the most hardworking and selfless person I know. As a single mother, she has always carried the responsibility of providing for my brother and me on her own. Growing up, I watched her work long hours and make sacrifices so that we could have the opportunities she never had. Even during difficult times, she never complained and always made sure we felt supported and loved. Seeing her strength and dedication has shaped the person I am today and has motivated me to work hard toward my own goals. My mom’s support has taught me the importance of resilience, independence, and determination. Because she already had so much responsibility, I learned early on that I wanted to help carry some of that weight. As I got older, I began working and doing everything I could to take as much financial burden off of her as possible. I have worked hard to support myself through school and take responsibility for my own expenses. I know that if my mom had the ability to provide everything for me, she absolutely would. That is simply the kind of person she is. However, I also know how much she has already sacrificed, which is why I have pushed myself to become independent and responsible for my own future. I honor my mother by continuing to pursue my education and striving to succeed in my goals. Everything I work toward is not only for myself but also for her. I want to show her that her sacrifices were not in vain and that the long hours and challenges she faced helped build a better future for our family. Her belief in me has given me the confidence to keep moving forward, even during moments when the path feels uncertain or overwhelming. Growing up in a single parent household has made her support even more meaningful. Without her encouragement, strength, and guidance, I would not be where I am today. She has been both a provider and a role model, teaching me what it means to work hard and persevere through challenges. Her example has driven me to be successful and to build a life where I can not only support myself but also give back to those who have supported me along the way. Receiving this scholarship would mean so much to me because it would help continue the path my mom helped me start. It would allow me to focus more on my education while continuing to work toward my dreams. Most importantly, it would honor the sacrifices my mother has made and help me continue building a future that would make her proud.

Growing up as someone who is half Black and half White in predominantly White states like Montana and now Utah has shaped many of my experiences. Often I find myself as the only person of color in a room, which has sometimes made me feel out of place or hyper aware of how I am being perceived. One experience in particular challenged me to use my voice and taught me an important lesson about communication and understanding. While shopping at a grocery store, I noticed that I was being watched closely by employees as I moved through the aisles. The feeling was difficult to ignore. I looked around and realized that I was the only person of color in the area. In that moment I felt uncomfortable and questioned whether I was being unfairly targeted. Even though nothing was said directly to me, the experience left me feeling uneasy and reminded me of how easily someone can feel judged or singled out. The next day I shared the experience with my coworkers. Once again, I was the only person of color in the conversation. As I explained what happened, several coworkers told me that it probably was not about race. I tried to explain that while they may not have seen it that way, the situation felt targeting to me. During the discussion, one coworker responded by saying “welcome to my life,” explaining that her husband is Hispanic and that she understands discrimination through his experiences. Her comment made me pause. I recognized that she was trying to relate and show empathy, but I also felt that our experiences were not the same. I calmly explained that while she may empathize through her husband’s perspective, she has not lived her entire life feeling the way I sometimes do walking into spaces where I am the only person who looks like me. Speaking up in that moment was uncomfortable, but it felt important to express my experience honestly. That conversation taught me that using your voice is not always easy, especially when discussing topics that make others uncomfortable. However, it also showed me that communication can create opportunities for understanding. I learned that people sometimes try to connect with experiences they have not personally lived, and while those attempts may not always be perfect, honest conversation can still lead to greater awareness. This experience helped me realize that my voice matters. Sharing my perspective allowed others to hear something they may not have considered before. In the future, I hope to continue using my voice to create spaces where people feel heard and respected. Whether in everyday conversations or in my future career in healthcare, I want to approach others with empathy while also having the confidence to speak honestly about my experiences. Moments like this remind me that understanding often begins with conversation. By using my voice thoughtfully and respectfully, I hope to contribute to greater awareness, compassion, and respect for the diverse experiences that shape the people around us.

My experiences with mental health have shaped the way I view people, relationships, and the kind of healthcare professional I hope to become. Over time, I have realized that mental health is deeply connected to how individuals experience physical health, pain, and medical care. This understanding has influenced the way I interact with others and has strengthened my desire to work in a field where compassion and patience are essential. Not getting into the dental hygiene program in 2025 was difficult at first. I experienced disappointment and questioned whether I was truly ready for the path I wanted to pursue. However, that period became an important moment for reflection and personal growth. Instead of focusing on the setback, I chose to spend the year gaining as much experience as possible in the dental field. I worked alongside general dentists, hygienists, endodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons. Through these experiences, I began to notice how mental health often plays a role in patient care. Many patients come into dental offices feeling anxious, embarrassed, or fearful. Watching hygienists and dentists calm patients, listen to their concerns, and create a comfortable environment showed me how important emotional support can be in healthcare. I learned that building trust with patients is just as important as providing technical treatment. For some individuals, simply feeling understood and supported can make a stressful appointment much more manageable. Working with different specialists also showed me how patients cope with pain and uncertainty in different ways. I saw patients come in with severe tooth pain and leave with relief after treatment, sometimes even becoming emotional because their discomfort had been affecting their sleep, mood, and daily life. These moments reminded me that oral health and mental well being are closely connected. Pain, fear, and stress can influence how people approach their healthcare, and providers who recognize that can make a meaningful difference. These experiences have also influenced my relationships outside of the clinic. I have learned to approach others with more empathy and patience, recognizing that everyone is carrying challenges that may not always be visible. This mindset has strengthened my belief that listening, kindness, and understanding can have a powerful impact on someone's day. As I continue working toward a career in dental hygiene, I hope to bring this perspective into my practice. I want to be someone who not only provides excellent clinical care but also helps patients feel safe, respected, and supported. Whether it is helping a nervous patient feel more comfortable during a cleaning or recognizing when someone may be struggling with anxiety, I believe that acknowledging the mental and emotional side of healthcare is essential. Looking back, not getting into the program when I first applied helped me grow in ways I did not expect. It gave me time to gain experience, develop resilience, and better understand the human side of healthcare. Those lessons have shaped my goals and strengthened my commitment to becoming a dental hygienist who cares for both the physical and emotional well being of my patients.