How has ASDA helped you build your leadership skills?
When I first stepped into this leadership role, it happened quite unexpectedly. I was essentially thrown into the position, but looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. This experience has been incredibly rewarding and has pushed me to grow in ways I never anticipated. It has allowed me to strengthen my leadership abilities, build confidence in decision-making, and better understand the importance of teamwork.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the value of delegation and trust. Creating a space where fellow officers feel encouraged to take initiative and share their ideas not only lightens the workload but also builds a stronger, more motivated team. When people feel supported and empowered, they naturally bring their best to the table.
Through this journey, I’ve also improved my communication and social skills, which are essential to effective leadership. More than anything, this experience has shown me that great leadership isn’t about doing everything yourself, it’s about inspiring others, listening actively, and growing together toward a shared goal.
What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader?
I think the most important quality in a leader is humility. When a leader is humble, it makes people actually want to follow them, not because they act like they know everything, but because they’re real and relatable. A humble leader isn’t afraid to admit when they’ve made a mistake or don’t have all the answers, and I think that honesty is what earns people’s respect the most. It shows that it’s okay to be human and that growth comes from learning through those experiences.
Humility also helps you grow as a person because it allows you to recognize your weaknesses, accept feedback, and use it to get better. I think the best leaders are the ones who are constantly learning right alongside their team. When people see that you’re willing to learn and improve, it creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable doing the same. It turns leadership into something collaborative instead of one-sided, where everyone supports each other and learns together.
Why should members get involved with ASDA leadership positions?
I think members should get involved with ASDA leadership positions because it’s such a great opportunity to grow, connect, and make an impact beyond the walls of dental school. ASDA gives you a voice in organized dentistry and helps you understand how the profession works on a larger scale.
Getting involved also lets you meet so many amazing people across the country who share the same passion for dentistry. You learn from others’ experiences, build lifelong friendships, and gain leadership skills that will carry into your career.
On top of that, being in ASDA leadership allows you to make a real difference for students, whether that’s improving the dental school experience, planning events that bring people together, or helping create opportunities for others to get involved. It’s a chance to give back, grow personally and professionally, and be part of something that genuinely shapes the future of our profession.
What future leadership roles in organized dentistry interest you and why?
In the future, I’d love to stay involved in organized dentistry beyond dental school. I’m really interested in leadership roles that focus on advocacy and community outreach. I like the idea of being a voice for students and new dentists, making sure our concerns are heard and that the profession keeps moving forward in a positive way.
I could also see myself taking on roles that focus on connecting members or planning events, since I really enjoy bringing people together and creating opportunities for others to get involved. Overall, I just want to continue being part of something bigger than myself and use leadership to help shape the future of dentistry while continuing to grow personally and professionally.