As a young child, I remember being fascinated by the world around me. I had so many questions, and it seemed like no one had the answers I was looking for. Every summer, for two weeks, I went to my grandparent's house. My grandfather was a professor and my grandmother was a librarian, so I spent my days with her. One day, while exploring the building my grandmother worked in, I stumbled upon the computer lab. After a technician gave me a brief lesson on how to use a computer, I was hooked on it. The idea that all my questions could be answered anytime excited me. However, my answers being given to me took the fun out of having the question. I wanted to answer my questions; I needed a challenge. Reflecting on this experience, I realize that through the dissatisfaction I developed many skills that are contributing to my prospective career path. As an aspiring candidate seeking a DDS/Ph.D., my passion for dentistry and research are the driving force behind my decision to continue my education post-graduation. I believe that dentistry is an ever-evolving field, and by combining my future clinical expertise with rigorous scientific research, I can contribute significantly to the advancement of dental healthcare. My desire to pursue a career in dentistry began during high school. This decision was heavily influenced by the profound impact my grandparents had on me. They exemplified qualities such as joy and compassion, while consistently supporting and encouraging me in all my endeavors. In my senior year of high school, they introduced me to a little girl who was just as curious as little me. I babysat her occasionally, but every time she challenged me to explore the world with fresh eyes. She reawakened the natural curiosity in me and helped me realize that I could spend the rest of my life asking questions about the world around me. However, I would not be satisfied unless they could be answered. I want to understand how the mouth is one of the most intriguing factors on a person yet is equally as threatening. Maintaining good oral hygiene was valued in my household. I was taught ‘you’re never fully dressed without a smile’. But the mouth's ability to cause so many diseases, including cardiovascular disease, is nothing to smile about. In April 2020, cardiovascular disease took my father’s life. The autopsy revealed that he had untreated cavities. My interest in discovering how diseases can impact an individual over the course of their life is one of the main reasons I decided to study Biology. I am most interested about in investigating the intersections between oral health and overall systemic health. People put off things that they do not consider important, so as a dentist, I want to help influence people to be more mindful of their health. Furthermore, by obtaining a Ph.D. in dentistry, I can pass on the information I know to a student like me. Becoming a professor is a goal of mine because it combines both my passion to teach and mentor. Throughout my high school years, I served as a volunteer mentor with Delta Sigma Theta GEMS. Making an impact on my mentees was extremely rewarding to me. Though we focused on issues pertaining to academic success and cultural identity, I learned the importance of effective communication skills to establish trust. Being able to empathize with others is vital to building a professional student-teacher and trusting dentist-patient relationship.