GRADUATION WITH LEADERSHIP IN DISTINCTION: COMMUNITY SERVICE 

       My childhood was unique, shaped by circumstances that I wouldn’t change for the world. I have a twin sister, Alexa, who was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy due to a lack of oxygen at birth. This condition resulted in severe brain damage and numerous medical challenges, often requiring extended hospital stays. When my father walked away when we were just two years old, I frequently found myself staying with my grandparents during those times of uncertainty. 

       

       The demands of caring for Alexa made it impossible for my mom to continue her teaching career, leading her to make the difficult decision to resign. With my father absent, she faced the daunting task of navigating life as a single parent, relying on food stamps to ensure we had meals on the table. As a young child, I didn’t fully grasp the weight of these challenges, but I now recognize the incredible strength and resilience my mother displayed as she worked tirelessly to make ends meet. 

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       Growing up in a family reliant on food stamps, I have a profound understanding of the struggle that many people in the United States face daily. This awareness drives my commitment to volunteer in my community. I’ve witnessed firsthand how quickly life can change, leaving parents, children, and their families to struggle. Sometimes, all it takes is a helping hand to navigate difficult times, and I aspire to be that source of support for others in need, which drove my passion to drive my community service experiences. Volunteering with different organizations not only allows me to give back but also brings me immense fulfillment, knowing I am helping families, like mine once was, during their times of need. 

       

       While my career passion lies in dentistry, community service is an essential component of my journey. Actively volunteering in various communities allows me to engage with and understand the diverse needs of the public I aim to serve. This firsthand experience enriches my perspective and helps me grow as a compassionate provider. I am a firm believer in making dental care accessible and affordable for everyone. My involvement in the community has motivated me to accept Medicaid, organize free cleaning days, and find ways to give back. I recognize that good oral health is fundamental to overall well-being, and I am committed to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to achieve it. 

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       Leadership has been a pivotal character builder for me as I approach the culmination of my four years at the University of South Carolina. My involvement in various organizations has shaped me into a leader who prioritizes leading by example over titles or empty words. I have had the privilege of serving as the event coordinator and president of Delta Delta Sigma Pre-Dental Honor Society, as well as the vice president and president of the American Student Dental Association Pre-Dental Club. Additionally, I was a university 101 peer leader for two years, where I shared my passion for Carolina with fellow students. As an undergraduate research assistant in the Early Social Development Lab, I contributed to the ACTION project and earned the Honors Research Grant for my junior and senior research projects. These leadership roles provided invaluable opportunities to connect with diverse populations within my community, reinforcing my belief in the power of action over accolades. 

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       Together, these experiences, along with my academic studies, have equipped me with the skill set necessary to be an effective leader in my community, one I am eager to carry forward into my future as a dentist.