My fascination with dentistry began during my freshman year of high school in an English class assignment to research a random occupation. By chance, I was assigned “orthodontist,” and as I learned how dental professionals transform lives through confident smiles, I knew I wanted to be part of that impact. When Collin College advisors visited my school and shared information about their Dental Hygiene Program, I felt certain that was where I belonged. Transitioning from high school to college was challenging. I struggled academically during my first two semesters and even explored joining the military as an alternative path toward dentistry. However, after facing enlistment complications and delays due to COVID, I realized how deeply committed I was to earning a degree. Determined to succeed, I returned to Collin College with renewed focus and the support of encouraging professors, such as Professor Elung, who helped me develop strong study habits and rebuild my confidence. This support led to my first “A” in college ever. I applied to Collin College’s Dental Hygiene Program in 2023 but was not accepted. Some family members discouraged me from reapplying, believing I was not academically capable, and academic advisors suggested I apply to the nursing program instead because it was less competitive. Rather than listening to those doubts, I believed in myself and applied again. I wanted to be a hygienist so badly that I reflected on what may have prevented my acceptance the first time and made a list of areas for improvement. By the next application cycle, I ensured I earned A’s in all my prerequisites and scored a 97 on the HESI exam. Now, in my second year and third semester of Collin College’s Dental Hygiene Program, I am closer than ever to achieving my dream of becoming the first person in my family to earn a degree. Although the demanding coursework has limited my ability to work and created financial strain, I have remained fully committed to finishing strong. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to focus entirely on my education, pay for board exams and preparation courses, and continue my journey toward helping others through compassionate dental care.

During my first year in the Dental Hygiene Program, one of my classmates, who was very talented at baking, suggested hosting a bake sale for our student chapter fundraiser. This was a new idea, since our program traditionally sold toothbrushes and whitening kits. Some classmates opposed the idea, especially after learning we would use student chapter funds to buy supplies. As a class representative, I felt it was important to support my classmate and give her the opportunity to showcase her talent. I pointed out that people might be more willing to buy baked goods for a few dollars than a toothbrush for a hundred. After a vote, the class approved the bake sale. The next challenge was staffing the event. With our heavy workload, few classmates were willing to give up their limited free time to help. Fortunately, I had built strong relationships with second year students and recruited several of them to assist. On the day of the sale, I worked with our faculty and my classmate to set up a decorative table. Before long, everyone looked to me for direction on organizing and running the stand, even though I hadn’t volunteered to lead. My classmates recognized my willingness to advocate for others, my use of personal connections, and my dedication as leadership qualities. The bake sale was a success, raising over $500. We chose to give part of the profits to the student baker to help cover her board prep costs, benefiting both her and future classes.