How has ASDA helped you build your leadership skills?
As an eager pre-dental student attending ASDA Pre-Dental Days at various dental schools I was inspired to become a leader in my undergrad organizations as well as immediately when I started dental school. To give back to the same organization that helped me learn about dental school in the first place, I joined ASDA and was elected a Pre-Dental Liaison my first year. Planning our largest pre-dental event with speakers, workshops, and a student panel challenged my communication and organization skills. As a second year serving as the Chapter Events Coordinator, I was able to continue growing those same skills by connecting with dentists, companies, and faculty to facilitate valuable events for our members like lunch and learns, socials, workshops and more.

Attending ASDA’s leadership conferences was also a highlight of my second year of dental school. Learning from some of the greatest leaders in dentistry showed me the traits I want to improve as I work to be my best possible version of a leader in ASDA and eventually leading my own dental team. It may not always be easy to make decisions affecting the largest student organization on our dental campus, but the training and opportunities ASDA has provided allows me to be prepared for any challenge. Looking forward into my first months as Chapter President, I hope to continue improving myself to keep our chapter organized and valuable for our members.

What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader?
Leaders must be able to listen before they speak. I strive to always take in group opinions before making a final judgement. I love to learn from other ASDA chapters to make our members’ experiences as great as possible!

Why should members get involved with ASDA leadership positions?
Getting involved at both my chapter and District levels during my first years of dental school will always be the highlight I remember most about my years as a dental student. Not only does leadership further connect you with students within your own school, but you are able to make friendships with dental students and alumni around the country. By being in my past leadership roles, I have had conversations with various people in dentistry that will forever impact the choices I make moving into my dental career.

What future leadership roles in organized denstiry interest you and why?
I would love to continue my involvement with the Michigan Dental Association New Dentist Committee. I also plan to be an active member of the local dental society in the area I work. Lastly, I hope to continue my journey in advocacy as an ADA Delegate for my state’s dental association at some point in the future. As both the world and the populations we serve are constantly evolving, so are the needs of dentists. Advocacy and guidance are some of the greatest benefits provided with organized dentistry.