Member Spotlights

In This Section

ASDA’s membership is made up of more than 24,000 dental and predental students from dental schools and undergraduate institutions across the United States. Each month, ASDA profiles members in our e-newsletters: The Polished Predental, The New Leader and Word of Mouth.

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Featured

Edith Quiñonez Lu

Hometown: Texhoma, OK

Chapter: Oklahoma

Graduation Year: 2021

Position Held At Chapter: President

Why do you want to be a dentist? I want to be a dentist so I may be able to provide services for those in need. I strive to gain insight that will lead to collaboration with others to improve access to dental care both in our nation as well as internationally. I want to be able to provide comprehensive dental treatment to my patients.
I believe everyone has a responsibility to care for his neighbor, and I also believe there is a fundamental problem in our society in understanding the importance of oral health. I want to be on the forefront in addressing this issue. I believe it is a privilege to be a dentist and to have the obligation and ethical responsibility of taking care of our community.

What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader? As a leader, I would say there are several vital qualities to embody. A couple of the most important ones are to truly listen to those on your team and act on your promises. This shows the ability to genuinely show that you care and follow through to make things happen.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned in dental school so far? The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far in dental school is to not compare myself to those around me. We all have different strengths and have different ways of learning and doing things. I’ve learned to embrace the journey I’m currently on and learn from my mistakes.

What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done? The bravest thing I’ve ever done is to make decisions that prioritize my health and wellness.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Do something today that your future self will thank you for.

Bradley Morgan

Leader

Why do you want to be a dentist? I originally chose dentistry because, as every pre-dent would say, I wanted to “help people.” Having stable dental and orthodontic care growing up changed my life, and “helping people” is still my primary--if not oversimplified--focus. However, at … read more
Kara Sardella

First Impression - Predental

1. Why do you want to be a dentist? I have always had a passion for helping others, and I definitely wanted to incorporate that into my future career. Fortunately, I have a father that is a dentist and I have been exposed to the dental environment my entire life. … read more
Kishan Patel

First Impression - Predental

Why do you want to be a dentist?
I was determined to pursue dentistry after I attended a six-week summer camp (SHPEP) at the University of Nebraska: School of Dentistry. During this camp, we were placed in classes with other pre-health students to assist with prerequisite courses. … read more
William Carter

Leader

Why do you want to be a dentist?
Ever since I was young, I have wanted to help people in need. Whether in the United States or across the world, the need for oral healthcare will always be important and dentistry is the hands-on physical skill to tackle this under-appreciated … read more
Brianne Schmiegelow

Leader

Why do you want to be a dentist?
I think that, as future dentists, we have the opportunity to have a big impact on the lives of our patients and on our communities. I love that we are able to put smiles on other peoples’ faces and make their lives even a little bit better.

… read more