Mariah Orozco

First Impression - Predental

Hometown: Houston, TX

Chapter: Pre-Dental Chapter at the University of Houston

Graduation Year: 2023

Position Held At Chapter: 2023-2024 Executive Advisor


Mariah-Renee-Orozco

Why do you want to be a dentist?
My desire to be a dentist stems from my childhood experience of caring for my younger sister, who has Down syndrome. Ever since we were children, we played a game of dentist and patient, which has carried on throughout the years as I continue to care for her oral hygiene. While I didn't know it at the time, our daily routine planted the seed that grew into a deep-rooted, intrinsic desire to serve others, ultimately leading me to pursue a career in dentistry. I am incredibly blessed to be in a field that allows me to make a positive impact on the oral and overall health of those around me!

What are you most excited about for dental school?
I am excited to gain and refine the skills necessary to become a compassionate dentist and to provide quality care to patients from all backgrounds. Additionally, I am eager to begin working with my hands in the simulation lab to strengthen my manual dexterity. Lastly, I look forward to being in an environment with many motivated and driven individuals that share the same passion of caring for others!

Why do you think you’ll make a good dentist?
I believe my experiences volunteering in underserved communities both domestically and abroad have instilled in me various skills, such as adaptability and understanding, which will aid me in providing empathetic care to my future patients. Additionally, my background in Public Health has instilled in me a holistic mindset with a focus on preventive care and comprehensive oral health education. Ultimately, I aim to be a dentist that serves as a leader in my community, providing oral care and education for those in need. I hope to use the experiences from my involvement in organized dentistry to help me become the best dentist I can be!

What excites you most about ASDA?
As someone coming from a homeschooled, first-generation background, I am endlessly grateful for the mentorship and sense of community that ASDA has given me. I am excited to give back and support those who are seeking a career in dentistry in hopes of strengthening the future of the dental profession. I look forward to continuing my involvement in ASDA as a future dental student so that I can network, support my peers, and advocate for the future of dentistry!