My life has been quite a journey, marked by my deep passion for dentistry from a young age. I always dreamed of working in the dental field, but moving around so much during my childhood made it hard to feel rooted anywhere. However, every trip to the dentist brought me a sense of comfort, leaving me feeling confident and beautiful. Life has thrown some unexpected challenges my way that altered my plans for a dental career. After my first daughter was born, I chose to become a dental assistant to support my family. But when my second child came along, I yearned for something more. Even though money was tight, I made the leap to pursue dental hygiene in 2019. This journey has been anything but easy. I faced financial struggles, dealt with rejections from dental programs, and tackled health issues along the way. But against all odds, I was accepted into The Ohio State bachelor's program for dental hygiene. As I progressed, new financial hurdles emerged, which is why receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous help. Navigating these financial and academic obstacles has taught me so much about resilience and the importance of support networks. They've fueled my ambition to build a career that not only fulfills me but also positively impacts people's lives. I have a strong desire to work in underserved communities, focusing on preventive education—especially for young mothers and children. I'm already laying the groundwork for a program aimed at educating pregnant mothers and parents about the significance of oral health. My vision includes providing accessible resources, covering everything from dental insurance options to proper oral hygiene practices, and highlighting the connection between oral health and overall well-being. I want to help dispel myths about dental care during pregnancy and early childhood, empowering families to prioritize dental health for future generations. Volunteering at pediatric dental events and participating in programs like The Ohio State University’s Give Vets a Smile have further ignited my passion for serving communities dealing with socioeconomic challenges. These experiences have opened my eyes to the gaps in oral healthcare access and shown me the profound impact of compassion and understanding toward those who often go overlooked. Going through socioeconomic adversity has reinforced my belief in the power of strong, supportive relationships. I've learned that success isn't achieved in isolation; it requires community, resilience, and the willingness to give back. As I move forward, I plan to use my education and skills to advocate for oral health equity. My hope is to create a career that inspires others facing similar challenges to recognize their potential and chase their dreams.

My love for the dental field began early on, shaped by personal experiences and a genuine desire to make a positive impact through oral health. Growing up in a military family meant moving around a lot, but our regular dental visits provided a sense of stability. For me, going to the dentist wasn't just about keeping my teeth healthy; it was a place where I felt beautiful and cared for. This nurturing environment instilled in me a passion for creating similar experiences for others, particularly those who might struggle to access quality dental care. Becoming a dental hygienist has been a journey filled with challenges. I've faced college rejections and financial hurdles along the way. But through it all, I stayed determined and was eventually accepted into The Ohio State University's Dental Hygiene Class of 2025. Juggling a full-time job and raising two young kids hasn't been easy, yet I've managed to excel academically while volunteering at pediatric dental events and participating in initiatives like 'Give Vets a Smile.' Each of these experiences has deepened my commitment to this profession and my ability to make a difference. I have ambitious, yet clear, goals for my future. I dream of starting a program that focuses on oral health education for pregnant mothers and children. I want to provide resources about dental insurance, pediatric dentists, and clarify common myths about oral health. I aim to promote regular dental care during pregnancy, benefiting both mothers and their children. My hope is to bridge the gap in oral health education and advocate for those who may not have the resources they need. Financial readiness has played a crucial role in my journey. Pursuing a dental hygiene degree while caring for my family has required careful planning and sacrifices. This scholarship would mean the world to me, as it would ease some of the financial pressure related to tuition, clinical supplies, and exam fees. With this support, I could focus more on my studies, volunteer work, and professional growth without the constant worry about finances. It would help me fulfill my educational goals and empower me to serve communities in need, all while setting a positive example for my children.

My Tooth Fairy passion transpired from a childhood comfort of the dental office. Growing up as the child of a Veteran came with constant moves and changes. The instability of military life caused me to crave consistency and stability, my regular dental visits gave me that. It also always gave me the confidence boost, leaving my teeth sparkly and white, when I often struggled with self-esteem as a teen. I remember using YouTube to learn all about good oral health practices and homemade whitening, I wanted a healthy, beautiful smile. I have always been drawn to dentistry and pursuing my dream job in dental hygiene. The reason I’m pursuing a career in dental hygiene is deeply personal to me. I truly enjoy helping others, and I find fulfillment in this field. My daughters are my biggest motivation for achieving this goal. Becoming a young mother has meant making many sacrifices along the way, but every step I take is for them. I want to create a wonderful life for my girls and be someone they can look up to and be proud of. I want to use my education to develop an oral health program for mothers, equipping them with the resources and knowledge needed to promote good oral health for themselves and their babies. Good oral health habits begin early and significantly impact our overall health and quality of life.

Hebrews 13:16 "And do not forget to do good and to share with others....." Growing up in a military family, I have attended many churches over the years. Currently, I am a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. My involvement in the church has significantly influenced the service I provide to my community, particularly in the area of oral health education. The church community has been a vital source of support, connection, and collaboration, offering me an ideal platform to make a positive impact in people's lives. By working closely with both my church and my school, I have been able to build bridges that allow me to share essential oral health information with community members, especially those who may not have access to this information. I have had the opportunity to organize and participate in various community events focused on health and wellness. With the support of my pastor and congregation, I've helped set up events where people from all walks of life can come to receive free health resources, including oral health education. Using my background in dental hygiene, I am able too provide information on the importance of oral care, the connections between oral health and overall health, and give simple tips for maintaining a healthy smile. This information is vital in underserved areas where oral health resources are often scarce or overlooked. Many people do not realize how crucial oral health is until they encounter problems, and by providing education, I aim to prevent those issues. My connection to my school has greatly helped in organizing events. With support from my professors and classmates, I’ve gathered educational materials, sample dental products, and arranged talks on topics like brushing techniques, children's dental health, and the importance of regular checkups. This has improved my communication and leadership skills. Coordinating between these two communities takes patience, and good communication, which are essential for community service. It's rewarding to see the positive impact we make, from happy smiles to the confidence people gain in managing their oral health. Through these events, my church has enabled me to connect with people on a personal level and inspire others to recognize the importance of oral health, one step at a time. This partnership demonstrates the positive change that occurs when communities unite to support each other in meaningful ways. Good oral health is important for our overall well-being because our mouth is the entrance to our bodies. After I graduate, I want to create a program that helps mothers by providing resources and information. This program will support them in developing good oral health habits for their future children. Health is wealth!

Health is wealth is a common phrase used, but when we think of the phrase everyone doesn't think about mental health. A healthy mind and body will allow us to live our most optimal life, our best life, the life we deserve. Taking care of your mind can change your life, I think mental health is detrimental to our lives. Our mental health affects our relationships with others, physical health, and overall quality of life. Chronic mental health struggles increase the risk of serious physical health issues, like cardiovascular diseases and a weakened immune system. Conditions such as depression and anxiety can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels, affecting both productivity and personal responsibilities. Coping mechanisms like drug dependency and alcohol use increase the risk of poor mental health. This may lead to social withdrawal, promoting isolation and misunderstandings in relationships. Focusing on mental health promotion is essential for a supportive environment. Severe mental health problems, especially when left untreated, may lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Mental health is important to me because it contributes to safety and overall well being. I maintain my mental wellness by engaging in activities that benefit both my mental and physical health. As part of my regular routine, I exercise daily by going to the gym, practicing yoga, and ice skating. Physical activity releases endorphins, which help me stay positive and energized when I need it the most. I particularly love ice skating; it gives me a sense of freedom as I glide with the wind in my hair. Spending time with my family is also essential for my mental wellness. My daughters and I enjoy playing Candyland and baking desserts together. I cherish the moments we share, whether we're having a quiet evening at home or enjoying a fun family outing. Their support and love provide me with a strong sense of belonging and comfort, which is both grounding and energizing. I combine exercise, ice skating, and family time to take care of my mental health. Physical activity builds my strength, and spending time with my loved ones warms my heart. These activities show me that staying active and connected are both important for my mental well-being. This balanced approach helps me manage stress and builds my resilience, making it easier to handle whatever life brings my way. Mental health is the foundation of how we think, feel, and interact with the world, impacting every area of our lives. When we prioritize our mental well-being, we’re better equipped to handle stress, build meaningful relationships, and find fulfillment in our daily activities. Just like physical health, nurturing mental health is essential for a balanced, happy, and resilient life.

Throughout my pursuit of higher education, I have faced significant challenges that tested my dedication and resilience. I graduated from high school a year early with the goal of studying Dentistry and was accepted into my top university. However, my family's relocation to Florida to care for my sister, who was in a coma, forced me to pause my college education to support them. During this time, I discovered I was pregnant, just before giving birth to my first child at 18 years old. Becoming a young mom motivated me to choose dental assisting as a practical, short-term goal. By 2019, I had gained both stability and confidence, which inspired me to reach higher and pursue dental hygiene. This step marked a renewed commitment to fulfilling my long-term dreams in healthcare. Juggling motherhood with academic aspirations has been a struggle, especially as I faced financial challenges that required me to work full-time while taking my pre-requisite courses. Despite my dedication, I encountered multiple rejections from dental hygiene programs, which was disheartening and made me doubt my path. But, I pressed on, and after years of hard work, I was overjoyed to be accepted into The Ohio State University’s Dental Hygiene program in May 2023. This journey has reinforced my commitment to serving others, particularly in enhancing oral health within my community. As an African American single mother of two young daughters, I understand the significant barriers that minority and low-income communities face, especially limited access to quality dental care. With my education, I aspire to bridge this gap by developing accessible educational resources tailored for underserved families. My vision is to create a business that provides oral health education for pregnant mothers and children, along with resources on dental insurance plans and guidance for pediatric care. I’m particularly passionate about dispelling myths surrounding dental care during pregnancy, an area where misinformation can prevent crucial preventive care. Educating mothers early on about the importance of oral health for themselves and their children can help instill positive habits that last a lifetime. Volunteering at pediatric dental events has shown me the impact of community-based outreach, and I plan to create a program for mothers to be. With this program, I can empower families to prioritize oral health, helping to reduce oral health disparities in minority communities. This journey has taught me the importance of persistence and the power of education as a tool for change. Despite the obstacles, I’ve held on to my goal of making a difference through dentistry. I am excited to use my education to create a positive impact, providing vital resources, education, and care that can uplift not only individual families but entire communities for generations to come.

I am Kenyara Leslie, I was raised by two Veterans enduring constant relocations and life changes. However, one thing that remained constant was the comfort and confidence I felt after each dental visit. This ignited my love for dentistry, a flame that has been burning for over 15 years. I graduated high school early, but life quickly changed when I became a mother at 18 years old. Despite the challenges being a young mother brought, I stayed determined to continue my educational journey. After a few years of working to support my daughter, I was ready to dip my feet into Dentistry. I went to vocational school and became a dental assistant. Working full-time, being a mother, and going to school was challenging. However, I persevered and graduated while simultaneously becoming a mother of two daughters. I enjoyed the years of dental assisting and met some incredible Dentists and hygienists but craved more. Starting in 2019, I decided to pursue my goal of becoming a registered dental hygienist. This came with a new can of worms, I had a hard time adjusting to the schedule, working as a lead dental assistant, and kids eventually home schools due to COVID. It was easier in the beginning, but as the difficulty level of the courses increased my responsibilities didn't. My frustration began to grow as applications came as did rejection letters for dental hygiene programs. As an African American woman with two daughters, I want to be a role model for my children and young black girls. I want to show them that despite life's challenges and setbacks success is possible. Then finally I was able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I was accepted into The Ohio State class of 2025 dental hygiene program, which I could not have done without the the support of my family and the lessons I learned from each setback, which made me more resilient and focused. My professional goal is to use my education to assist in decreasing dental disparities in underserved communities by working in dental desert areas. I plan to implement a Prenatal Oral Health program to educate, assist, and create resources for pregnant mothers. The oral cavity is where our body system starts, unfortunately, many misconceptions of oral health and its importance are still present. Starting healthy oral health habits and education with the pregnant mother can assist in closing the disparities gap as she will be able to instill these beliefs into her child. Children are the future and health is wealth, I want to do my part in helping create a healthy future. My greatest motivation for reaching my goals is my daughters. Growing up I had access to dental care, but my parents lacked the education coming from low-income families. I noticed that as I yearned to know more about oral health it was not easily accessible, and my dental visits lacked the foundations. I believe that education is the most important foundation for achieving good oral health. This scholarship will enable me to complete my bachelor's program in dental hygiene and begin my journey by helping create healthy moms and their babies. Thank you for your consideration!

My Tooth Fairy passion transpired from a childhood comfort of the dental office. Growing up as the child of a Veteran came with constant moves and changes. The instability of military life caused me to crave consistency and stability, my regular dental visits gave me that. It also always gave me the confidence boost, leaving my teeth sparkly and white, when I often struggled with self-esteem as a teen. I remember using YouTube to learn all about good oral health practices and homemade whitening, I wanted a healthy, beautiful smile. I then became a young mom which drove me to pursue a career, dentistry was a natural choice. Starting as a dental assistant as a way to get my foot into the door of dentistry, my love grew. I stayed to financially provide for my two daughters. But the drive for further education was always lingering. COVID was the push I needed, I lost my job, due to the shutdown and started pursuing dental hygiene. After two years of rejection letters from dental hygiene schools, I was finally accepted into the Ohio State University in 2023. As I started my program, I quickly became a class mom for many of my much younger classmates. This made me think of how I wanted to help my communities in more than just being a provider. I want to combine my love for dentistry with the love I have for helping others, specifically mothers and children. My goal is to complete my bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene at Ohio State University. And use my education to assist in decreasing dental disparities in underserved communities by working in dental desert areas. I plan to implement a Prenatal Oral Health program to educate, assist, and create resources for pregnant mothers. The oral cavity is where our body system starts, unfortunately, many misconceptions of oral health and its importance are still present. Starting healthy oral health habits and education with the pregnant mother can assist in closing the disparities gap as she will be able to instill these beliefs into her child. Children are the future and health is wealth, I want to do my part in helping create a healthy future. My greatest motivation for reaching my goals is my daughters. Growing up I had access to dental care, but my parents lacked the education coming from low-income families. I noticed that as I yearned to know more about oral health it was not easily accessible, and my dental visits lacked the foundations. I believe education is the most important foundation for achieving good oral health. I am hoping with my research and commitment to my community I can help create a change in our children's oral health because healthy babies come from an educated and healthy mom.

My name is Kenyara Leslie, I’ve chosen to become a soldier for the teeth, in the “Tooth Fairy” field. I am pursuing my dream of becoming a dental hygienist. Cleaning, educating patients and taking names for Tooth Fairy visits. The reason I’ve chosen this field is because being the child of a veteran with constant moves and life changes brought interest and appreciation for the constants. Such as yearly physicals and biannual dental visits. Dental visits stood out the most because I always left feeling beautiful, and comforted. I desired to give that feeling to others, and so as a teen I begin researching into the dental field. Starting as a dental assistant my love for dentistry blossomed and I wanted to further my education with dental hygiene. I plan to utilize my own experience, education and skills to assist in decreasing dental disparities in at risk communities. Working towards creating healthy, happy smiles in all of my patients. I am currently creating an Oral health program for pregnant women to support and educate. Giving them the tools they require for healthy pregnancy and healthy babies. My goal is to provide education so mothers are able to begin good oral health practices in their children from birth. Starting the foundation can decrease the risk of caries, oral diseases, and infections that plague our youth. My passion for this program came from my life experiences as a young mother. Motherhood doesn’t come with a guidebook but it can come with a community to guide those in need. I want to help women understand how important oral health truly is, not only for their babies but for themselves. Dentistry is the lowest health priority in America, yet all dental disease is preventable with education, constant recare appointments and necessary tools. Dental diseases can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even death. I plan to spread my “magic” to mommies and babies in my community so they can live healthier lives. I hope that my passion is displayed in my patient care and my future program!

As an African American woman, my identity has had a significant impact on both my personal and professional journey. I attended predominantly non-diverse schools from elementary to high school and now in college, and I've had to navigate a landscape where microaggressions, stereotypes, and assumptions about my education level and competence are common. People often make judgments before getting to know me, which has led me to repeatedly prove myself and, at times, educate others about cultural sensitivity and the importance of diversity. While this can be draining, it has also made me more resilient and strengthened my determination to overcome barriers, not just for myself but for those who come after me. In the dental hygiene field, there are not many African American professionals. This has made me even more determined to succeed. It's important for African Americans to see people who look like them in this field. I hope to encourage future generations of African Americans to choose careers in dental hygiene, which will help reduce healthcare inequalities. Being the only person of color in many situations has been tough, but it has also taught me how to speak up for myself and others in places where our voices are not often heard. My experiences help me connect with patients on a deeper level, especially those with similar backgrounds. Trust and empathy are crucial for improving patient outcomes, especially in communities that have been historically underserved. My personal journey gives me the unique ability to build that connection. I want my patients to feel comfortable asking me anything and to trust that I have their best interests in mind. As a minority, trust is often placed in those who share our background. I want to be that safe space and help to break down oral health disparities in minority communities. In the future, I aim to include an oral health education program for pregnant mothers and children, particularly in underrepresented communities. I am passionate about using my voice and education to debunk myths, break down barriers, and empower others to take control of their oral health in ways that are culturally and personally meaningful. My focus is on bringing awareness and resources to mothers who need them the most. Through education, I aim to make a lasting impact on these women and their children, creating a ripple effect of healthy practices that can last generations. This is not just a career path for me, but a passion project fueled by my own experiences as a young black mother and my desire to uplift others. By embracing my identity and using it as a source of strength, I am shaping my path and contributing to a broader movement toward equity, inclusion, and better understanding in healthcare.

I embody the B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. spirit through my unwavering dedication to service, education, and advocacy for oral health, particularly for low-income pregnant women and children. This philosophy aligns with my goals of improving lives through knowledge and care, ensuring that no mother or child is left without the resources they need to maintain proper oral health. As a mother myself, I understand the emotional, physical, and financial challenges that come with parenting, especially when it comes to healthcare. Having my first child at 18 and my second at 21, I quickly learned that the responsibilities of motherhood are both rewarding and demanding. I was fortunate to have access to proper dental care and education, but I know that many women, especially in low-income communities, do not have the same opportunities. This realization drives me to give back and share my knowledge with others, so they can also experience the comfort and confidence that comes with a healthy smile. Through my volunteer work at pediatric dental events, I have witnessed the unequal access to dental care for children, particularly in underprivileged communities. I have helped families navigate the complexities of pediatric oral health, from teaching children proper tooth-brushing techniques to educating parents about the significance of early dental check-ups. These experiences have been humbling, strengthening my belief that oral health education should begin early in life and continue throughout every stage of pregnancy and parenting. I am currently working on developing a program that will focus on educating and supporting low-income pregnant mothers with their oral health needs, as well as those of their future children. The program will aim to debunk common myths about dental care during pregnancy, a time when oral health is often overlooked due to a lack of knowledge or resources. My goal is to create a supportive environment where women can feel empowered to take charge of their dental health by providing them with education on proper care techniques, access to affordable dental insurance plans, and referrals to pediatric dental offices. The B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. spirit is deeply committed to serving the community and providing care. These values guide my actions as I work to raise awareness and provide resources to mothers who need them most. My focus on education aims to make a lasting impact on these women and their children, creating a ripple effect of healthy practices for generations. This is more than just a career for me; it's a passion project driven by my experiences as a young mother and my desire to uplift others. I volunteer and plan to start a program to make it easier for everyone to learn about and get oral health care. I believe every woman should have the chance to learn to take care of herself and her family, no matter her financial or social situation. I am committed to making sure oral health care is available to everyone, no matter how much money they have. That is how I embody the B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E spirit and work to pass it on to my daughters.

Receiving this scholarship will greatly support my educational aspirations. It took me several years to achieve my dream of becoming a dental hygienist due to my dedication and perseverance. When I had my two children at a young age, I prioritized earning an income over pursuing my education and fulfilling my dreams. I initially chose to pursue a career in dental assisting because it required less time and money. However, as a parent of two children, I found that the job did not provide enough income to give my children the life I wanted for them. I struggled to make ends meet for several years. In 2019, I found an amazing dental office where my dentist was very supportive of my pursuit of dental hygiene. He allowed my schedule to be flexible as I started taking my prerequisite courses. After completing my requirements, I applied to two community colleges, but I was denied admission to both because dental hygiene is an annual entry program. This meant I had to wait another year to reapply. During that time, I retook courses in which I had received B's to improve my GPA so that the following year I could apply again. The next year, I applied to only one college, as the other had a 5-year waiting list. Unfortunately, I was denied admission once again. In my third year, I found myself going further into debt and dealing with mental and health issues. Despite my doubts, the encouragement of those around me led me to pursue admission to Ohio State University. However, the higher cost of attendance and extra course requirements made the process challenging. Despite my initial reluctance, I persevered and was overjoyed to be accepted into the Ohio State Dental Hygiene program class of 2025 in 2023. However, the financial burden was more than I anticipated, with the doubled cost of attendance and added expenses for equipment quickly draining my savings in the first semester. Receiving this scholarship would assist in significantly reducing my financial burden, allowing me to focus on completing my dental hygiene degree after five years of perseverance. It would help cover tuition and educational expenses, decreasing the need for student loans and part-time work. With reduced debt, I can better provide for my two daughters, ensuring their well-being while balancing school and family life. This support would allow me to achieve my goals and secure a stable future for us.

The most significant challenge I have overcome in my life is pursuing my dream job as a dental hygienist. Despite experiencing decades of setbacks, I have always persevered. I have aspired to be a part of the dental field since I was a child. As a military child, we moved around a lot, but the dental office was always my place of comfort and familiarity, consistently the same everywhere we went. My journey began when I graduated from high school early and got accepted into my first choice college. However, finding out I was pregnant made me change my plans. Instead, I started working and a few years later pursued dental assisting. While completing my dental assisting certificate, I gave birth to my second child at twenty-one. Being an assistant amplified my love for dentistry, and I knew I had to keep going. In 2019, I started pursuing dental hygiene. Working full-time and attending school part-time, this process took longer than most, as I was rejected three times after completing my prerequisite courses, causing another two years delay as acceptance is only once per year. Despite the setbacks, I took more classes and was able to apply to a university. In 2023, I was accepted into Ohio State University in their Bachelor's program for dental hygiene. I am now part of the 2025 class for The Ohio State University dental hygiene program and am incredibly proud of my achievement! As I prepare to graduate next year, I am currently designing a program for oral health education for pregnant mothers. I aim to integrate this program into parenting classes for low-income moms. Receiving this scholarship will enable me to invest in my research and kickstart the funding process to launch the program once I obtain my dental hygiene license. As a mother and an oral health professional, I am aware that low-income pregnant women and children are among those affected by dental disparities. I want to provide education and resources for these mothers so that they can have a healthy pregnancy and pass on the importance of oral health to their children, who are our future. I believe philately is an amazing hobby that could be a great way to encourage young people to explore and learn about different countries and time periods. One way to promote this hobby is to organize stamp-collecting workshops for kids. In these workshops, children can create scrapbooks of the stamps they've collected and exchange stamps with each other while sharing stories about how they acquired them.

Growing up in a military family, constantly moving from one place to another, I often felt like I lacked stability. My father’s service meant frequent relocations, new schools, and adjusting to different environments. Amid this uncertainty, I found comfort in the consistent care of my dentist, whose office I would visit no matter where we lived. Dentistry became more than just healthcare for me—it became a source of confidence, beauty, and reassurance in a world of change. It inspired me to pursue a career in oral health, a journey that has been anything but conventional. My path toward becoming a dental hygienist is marked by perseverance, determination, and a refusal to give up, even when the odds were stacked against me. After graduating high school early at 17 and becoming a mother at 18, I was faced with the doubts of those who believed my dreams were no longer within reach. But I pressed on. I had my second child at 21, all while working full-time and attempting to get into a dental hygiene program. Rejection after rejection came from various colleges, and financial hurdles seemed insurmountable. Yet, in 2023, after nearly six years of pursuing my goal, I was finally accepted into Ohio State University. This journey is what makes me unique. It’s not just the challenges I’ve overcome but how they have shaped my perspective and how I can now use my experiences to inspire others. As a mother of two, I have not only been a role model for my daughters, but also for others who may be silently watching me—from fellow classmates to patients in the dental chair. My uniqueness lies in my ability to understand struggle and persevere in the face of adversity. This is a quality I leverage to make a difference in someone’s life, even if I have no idea they are watching. In the dental field, I know how intimidating oral care can be for many, especially for young mothers who may feel overwhelmed, just as I once did. This is where my vision to integrate oral health education for pregnant mothers and children comes to life. I plan to create programs that offer not just oral hygiene tips, but also access to resources like insurance plans and pediatric office information. These resources could change someone’s life, maybe even for someone I’ll never meet—a mother who finds comfort and confidence in knowing how to care for her child's oral health because of something she read, attended, or heard from me. I often volunteer at pediatric dental events, and it is there that I see the real impact of what I’m doing. Children are watching, absorbing more than we realize. Whether I’m explaining to a parent how to help their toddler brush their teeth or showing a child how to hold a toothbrush, I know my presence is planting seeds that will grow over time. I leverage my story—my journey from a young mother to a future dental professional—to inspire others, whether they consciously acknowledge it or not. Beyond that, I bring empathy and understanding to every interaction, knowing that many people carry burdens invisible to the eye. I see myself in patients who feel overwhelmed, whether by finances, family demands, or personal struggles, because I’ve been there too. My goal is to make oral healthcare accessible, approachable, and empowering for everyone, particularly for populations that often feel marginalized. In short what makes me different is my unique experiences that has molded me into the person I am today and I hope that everyday others can hear my story and be encouraged!

Coming from a single-parent, low-income household has shaped my resilience and perseverance in profound ways. From a young age, I understood the value of hard work, determination, and the importance of education as a pathway to a better life. My experiences taught me to navigate challenges with tenacity, whether it was balancing school and work, raising children at a young age, or overcoming the financial and academic hurdles in pursuing my dream of a career in dental hygiene. These challenges fueled my desire to give back and make a positive impact. I plan to use my experiences to advocate for individuals, especially women and mothers, who face similar obstacles. My goal is to develop an oral health program that empowers pregnant women and children with the knowledge and resources to prioritize dental care. By integrating education, access to dental insurance, and comprehensive oral health policies, I aim to bridge gaps in care and dispel myths surrounding oral health during pregnancy. I am actively working toward these goals by furthering my education in dental hygiene at Ohio State University. I'm also researching and networking with professionals to establish a prenatal program that focuses on improving oral health outcomes for mothers and children. Every step I take in my education and career is dedicated to building a future where I can uplift others through my work, turning my life experiences into a force for positive change.

Having a child at 18 and graduating high school early at 17 were two life-altering moments that tested my strength, resilience, and determination. When I became a young mother, whispers from family members echoed in my ears, “How will she excel in life?” These doubts could have easily weighed me down, but instead, they ignited a fire within me to prove not just to them, but to myself, that I could overcome any challenge life threw my way. I graduated high school a year ahead of schedule, full of ambition and drive, yet my journey as a young mom was only beginning. The military took my parents 2,000 miles away from me, I found myself isolated, not just geographically, but emotionally as well. The family members who lived nearby turned their backs on me, leaving me to navigate motherhood and adulthood almost entirely on my own. The reality of being a young mother in a new place, with no emotional or financial support, was daunting. But the responsibility of giving my daughter the life she deserved kept me pushing forward. I worked two full-time jobs while pursuing an education to become a dental assistant. It was an exhausting and relentless grind, but I believed that this would be the start of a career that could offer stability. Unfortunately, the financial rewards of being a dental assistant weren’t enough to support my growing family, and I knew I had to aim higher. My dream has always been to give my daughter, and eventually my second child, an amazing life—one full of opportunities, security, and love. After having my second child at 21, I realized I needed to pursue my passion for dental hygiene, despite the daunting challenges ahead. The journey to becoming a dental hygienist has been the hardest chapter of my life so far. Working full-time while being a mother of two and attending school was no easy feat. The emotional and physical toll was heavy, especially after being denied entrance into two different colleges. Each rejection felt like a setback not just in time, but in my confidence. Having to wait a year after each denial to reapply added to the stress, pushing me further behind and deeper into financial debt. But through all the obstacles, I never gave up. Four long years of perseverance finally paid off when, in 2023, I was accepted into Ohio State University’s dental hygiene program. Yet, even with this victory, financial struggles continue to cast a shadow over my journey. Juggling the demands of work, school, and motherhood has stretched me in ways I never imagined, but it has also revealed a strength within me that I didn’t know I possessed. My desire to succeed is fueled by the hope of creating a better life for my daughters. Every moment of blood, sweat, and tears has been for them. I want my girls to see me as a source of inspiration, someone they can be proud of and look up to. I want them to know that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you can always get back up and keep fighting for what you believe in. My journey is far from over, but I’m determined to see it through. Every sacrifice I make today is a step closer to the life we deserve, and I know, in the end, it will all be worth it.