Hometown: Massapequa, NY

Chapter: Stony Brook

Graduation Year: 2025

Position Held At Chapter: Vice President


Cleary-Cailin

How has ASDA helped you build your leadership skills?
Being Vice President of the Stony Brook ASDA chapter, I have had amazing opportunities to work with many students throughout our school and across the nation. Planning ASDA’s Fever Week, I am able to help incoming D1s, introduce them to the school and the organization, and encourage those to be involved in ASDA. At the Annual Conference in Kentucky, I was able to network and create relationships with other schools. This opportunity has allowed me to adopt different recruitment events to better lead the organization at Stony Brook. 


What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader?
Being personable is one of the most vital qualities a leader can have. It is important to be someone people can turn to for anything, during each high and low of dental school. Being a personable leader can allow one to adjust to different social situations by being open and supportive of colleagues. A good leader values what people have to say, and wants the best for their team.

Why should members get involved with ASDA leadership positions?
Members should get involved with ASDA leadership positions because it is the best way to make an impact on our education. Because ASDA is the largest student run organization, being in a leadership position provides many opportunities to voice our opinions and make changes that better our own experience.

What future leadership roles in organized denstiry interest you and why?
Advocacy is one of the most important aspects of organized dentistry. After I graduate, I hope to stay involved and continue to voice my opinion to better the future of dental students and the dental profession. Within my first year, I have already seen many changes on both a local and national level, and it is crucial to continue addressing issues we all face or have faced.