PART 2: Alexis Dudash

1: My name is Alexis DuDash. I am from Portland, Oregon. I am the youngest of the three girls in my family. I enjoy time with my family and playing with my 11 nieces and nephews. My hobbies are cars, food and traveling when I am not knee deep in teeth!

2/3: The first time I worked through a challenging Prosthodontic case at the CU Dental clinic, I remember going home feeling elated and wanting to learn more and do more. I admired the complexity of Prosthodontics and realized that the more cases that I worked the more I wanted. That is the reason I chose Prosthodontics. For it's challenging work, the opportunities for you to think beyond the simple answer, the fact that it involves all realms of dentistry, and the interdisiplnary approach it provides.

4: There is not much I can speak on when it comes to comparing the interview process to other specialties but one thing I can say is that I enjoyed mine. I applied through ADEA and MATCH. I talked to my fellow classmates who have applied to other specialties and the process seems about the same. I think the main difference I noticed was that each individual I talked to expressed what they wanted from their residency; knowing what you want is important. How the application process goes is what you make of it, yes you fill out a lot of paperwork but the main thing that helps is how prepared a student can be. Keeping an up to date CE/resume is key.

5: The thing that I am most excited about for Prosthodontic Residency, is the amount of learning that I will be doing. The fact that I will be able to eat, breath, and sleep Pros, sounds like a dream come true!

6: My advice to dental students interested in residency is to really take the time and immerse themself in their education and learn what their likes and dislikes are. This will allow them to have a better understanding of what they want out of a residency and will make applying a little simpler. I also think that it is important to get to know your peers and faculty. Dentistry is a small community and we can all learn from each other!

PART 1: Asma Samara

1. Introduce yourself, where are you from/ grew up/ hobbies?

Hello! My name is Asma Samara and I am originally Palestinian-Jordanian. I was born in New Jersey, but grew up in Amman, Jordan from age 1-10. Then moved to Albuquerque, NM for four years. Then finally, once I started high school, my family moved to Colorado Springs, CO. Some of my hobbies include photography, hiking, and if you want to count in shopping. 

2. why prosth?

I chose prosthodontics because I felt after my short clinical experience in dental school, how rewarding it was to be able to give patients a prosthesis that can help them function again after missing teeth for so long. One patient in particular, inspired my journey. To add on to that, my interactions with Dr. Sutton really pushed me to pursue prosthodontics. He was a great mentor and really guided me through treatment planning with complex patients. I knew I wanted to be able to have the ability to serve patients from simple to complex cases, especially when it came to their treatment options. I also just think occlusion itself is fascinating and how the slightest changes in it make the biggest differences. 

3. When did you know you wanted to go into Prost?

I knew I wanted to go into prosthodontics shortly after the application cycle opened in the summer right before fourth year. I didn’t want to pursue any specialty coming into dental school. However, the clinical experience I had truly inspired my journey and decision to further my training. 

4. What was the interview portion like compared to other specialties?

I am not sure what the interviews were like for other specialties, however, for some programs in prost, if the interview was in person, they asked the interviewees to either drill preps or wax teeth. Most of my interviews were online through zoom. The interview I had in person; however, I was asked to drill two crown preps and one only prep that was specific to that school’s guidelines. It was interesting and nerve racking to have to practice for it, but during the actual process it was easy going and not as intense as I thought it would be. 

5. What are you most excited about in residency?

I am really excited to see what it’s like to almost practice almost as like a private practice. According to what I’ve heard from the current residents, even though we are still students and in training, we still can see our patients and treatment plan as we see fit. We really get to shape our residency experience. Although we will be in the same program, our focuses will be different, and we get to map out what we truly want to focus on and learn.  I am also really excited about the fact that I get to go on this journey with two of my classmates from dental school. It makes having to go to a completely new place does not feel so lonely. 

6. What advice would you give to dental students interested in residency?

The biggest piece of advice I can give is to keep an open mind. I really didn’t think I would specialize and that I would be done after the four years of dental school. But plans always change and experiences truly affect your way of thinking and outlook on how you want to practice in the future. Don’t limit yourself during school and see where your heart and mind lead you. 

Walking Catfish on Land

by Sherleen Tran

September 13th,  2021

I was born into a world of creativity and color, and my mom was my first art teacher. Despite being the breadwinner of our family of five, she always made time to spend her days off with me. Some days, it was spent doing each other’s nails and creating jewelry pieces. Other days, we would be lying in bed and pointing out imaginary pictures from the stippling of our popcorn textured ceiling. It became my second nature to view the world through an artistic lens, because even the simplest things have the potential to be created into something beautiful – whether it is in our minds or through our own hands. I immersed myself into the world of art as much as I could – anywhere from ceramics to photography to painting. It seemed impossible to love anything else more than I did with art.

As I grew older, I stumbled upon the world of science and found a new love for it. Curiosity pulled me deeper and deeper into this vast knowledge that would take lifetimes to learn. However, it meant investing more time into my classes – learning, studying, practicing. Slowly, I found myself making less time for the art projects I had started but never finished. Maybe tomorrow…maybe next weekend…maybe next time? There were periods when my body felt drained, as if it was left in the sun to dry out. I loved art and I loved science, but I couldn’t survive with one and not the other. I knew that whatever my calling would be, it would have to exist at the intersection of these two realms.

I found dental school at the intersection that I desired to find, and it was like a breath of fresh air that energized my body once more. Every time I was in the lab or sitting in lecture, I recalled the words that my dentist spoke to me the day that I shadowed him: “you wear many hats as a dentist…you may be the doctor, but you are also the artist.” It was challenging in the beginning, however. The expectations that you have as a student sit at the top of a steep learning curve that that you have to somehow magically climb. Everyday from 8 to 5 (if I was lucky enough to be done by then) would a tightly packed schedule filled with labs and lectures. By the time I would come home, it would be too late for me to process anything else school-related. I would try to review some slides, fall dead asleep, then begin the cycle again the next day. That draining feeling began creeping up on me again as the semester went by. I knew that I needed to be smarter about how I spent my time.

So I began making study guides – actually, I began illustrating study guides. What first started out as written notes transformed into pages of annotated illustrations. I wanted my notes to be easy to navigate, both for when I am studying for upcoming exams as well as for future reference. Furthermore, I wanted my notes to go beyond regurgitated lecture slides. As a kinesthetic and visual learner, I needed my study guides to encapsulate that. I needed to be able to truly understand the story behind the concepts my professors and faculty were teaching me.

I would have never thought that my study guides would be part of the intersection between art and science. I honestly enjoy the time that I spend drawing my study guides, because I can feel the learning awaken with life. With a common note taking app, I can fill a blank sheet of paper with so many colors and shapes that make sense to me. Dots begin connecting as I take the time to understand how this part of the world works.

Today I am a DS2 at the CU School of Dental Medicine. Although I am not sure what I will do after I graduate, I know that I am in the right place. The intersection has grown from the moment I stepped foot in it, and I know that it can only get bigger. Whether it be through dentistry or my classes now, I hope to explore more of this intersection that helps me thrive in life. Maybe one day it won’t just be an intersection for me. Maybe one day, I can share this new world with the ones around me.

 My name is Shruthi Srinivasan, and I am the ISP-1 ASDA representative. When I was asked to write a blog post about myself for the Colorado ASDA, I came up empty. Was I expected to write about my path as an international dentist, the challenges I faced, or my journey so-far at the University of Colorado? Did I want this post to be a mere reflection of my accomplishments or setbacks? Somewhere amidst my musings, I had a spark of an idea. The last few months have been a whirlwind of didactics, labs and clinics, interspersed with emotional highs-and-lows, self-doubt and anxiety. At the same time, I have had the opportunity to silently observe my classmates, learn from them and be amazed at their accomplishments. I am the kind of person who resorts to ‘seeking inspiration’ when faced with challenges.  This post is intended to celebrate the insanely gifted ISP Class of 2022, who inspire me to be a better human, classmate and a dentist. 

If you are a prospective dental student, feverishly searching for ‘diversity statement’ ideas on the internet, look no further.  Let me tell you some stories. Delving a little into my background, I came to the United States right out of dental school in India. I had just turned 24, moved to a new city with no family around me, and consistently sported a ‘deer-caught-in-headlights’ expression. All I wanted to do was sit in a classroom, listen to lectures and learn how to prep a crown. Dramatically enough, I felt like I bore the burden of the world on my shoulders.  Fast forward a couple of years, I now sit in a classroom with people who owned practices, were specialists and even served as faculty in their home countries! They left everything behind to start here at ground-zero. A truly humbling and inspiring experience, I cannot help but be amazed by their resilience, courage and passion for the field. 

The rigors of dental school life are plenty, but on days you feel dejected or overwhelmed, just look around you. You will be surprised by what you learn and from whom. We recently started clinical rotations, and I was slightly perturbed by what it entailed. While I mulled over what I could be doing, a bunch of friends piqued my curiosity. I watched them plan out every step of the procedure, every minor detail (including where shimstock is found) was charted in different colors, and contingency plans drawn for unexpected failures! I could never plan so well, but it set me on the path for better preparedness. 

In my non-exhaustive list of inspirations, families play a pivotal role too. I know of people who live so far from their families, the duration of the flight they take home is as long as the breaks we get. But at the same time, I also know of families who moved half-way across earth showcasing their support. Last month, I watched a classmate virtually plan the birthday of her child who lived on another continent. And recently during lunchtime, I watched a classmate eat and plan her child’s school routine a thousand miles away. It is important to realize that there is so much thought behind every action. If these humans don’t inspire you, who will?

Finally, on days you feel very proud of your accomplishments, give yourself a pat. You deserve it more than anyone else. But if your feet start hovering a few feet above ground, just look around you. Someone around you probably played in the Olympics, auctioned their art or just wrote a book. Remember that if you wish to inspire someone, the first step is to always be inspired.

This is Shruthi Srinivasan

Hello! 

My name is Tom Van, and I am the current president for Colorado ASDA. I am a rising 3rd year as well as a Colorado Native. 

What motivated you to apply to be ASDA President? 

In my early pre-dental years, I would participate in many events that Colorado ASDA hosted. During these events, it taught me more than what it takes to be a good applicant for school but also the possibility to positively influence my colleagues and my community through organized dentistry. I wanted to advocate to my community that oral health is an integral aspect in an individual’s overall health. By being involved in ASDA, I felt that I had the necessary resources to be the voice for dental students as well as serving my community. This inspired me to want to be at the forefront of these changes which encouraged me apply and be elected as ASDA President for my chapter. 

How are you balancing both a student and leader in the school? 

Both leadership and being a student involves lifelong learning which helped me balance the two positions in school. Being a part of ASDA is my release from stress and angst that exist in school, and at the same time, it is also related to my career and goals. I believe that the essence of balancing anything in life is having the right attitude. As long as we continue to keep a positive mindset, establish a clear goal and maintain a consistent schedule, everything will fall into place! Optimism will lead the way. 

Any advice you have for other students to take on leadership?

What I hope for anyone who decides to go into leadership is to enjoy and be passionate about the field. From my previous mentors and leaders that inspired me, I have learned that leadership is an action, not a title. To be elbow deep in the trenches, pulling the ropes, to listen and to be adaptable is what I believe makes a great leader. 

The last and most important advice I want to offer is to not be afraid of stepping into leadership! You do not need to know everything on how to be a leader in order to be a great one. I am constantly learning on what works best by communicating and listening to my executive board members. There is a saying that you can determine the efficacy of a leader by the growth of the team, but I think the opposite can also be said in that you can determine the efficacy of a team by the growth of its leader. 

by Ty Weisenburger

One of the most impactful arms of ASDA is Advocacy. At our chapter, I have served as the Advocacy liaison while serving as Vice President. During this time, my eyes have been opened to two major things: first, the rousing issues facing our profession and second, the influence that dental students and dentists have in the dental political sector. I have learned and continue to learn about the major legislative issues that have and will continue to impact the dental field.

I hope to shed light on three major topics and controversial issues that Colorado ASDA, with the support of National ASDA and the American Dental Association (ADA) are working to rectify. The three issues are 1) Licensure Reform 2) Competition among Dental Insurance Companies and 3) Student Debt Reform. It is my hope that I can explain the basics of each issue, what ASDA & the ADA are doing to resolve these issues, and review any updates in progression at the state or national level.

1)    Licensure Reform – Is it ethical to administer a dental licensure exam on a live patient?

Something you need to know right off the bat is that Colorado accepts all CURRENT pathways to licensure, which is unique. Among others, we have Christian Piers to thank for his efforts as Colorado ASDA President and National ASDA President in 2015. After being turned away by the state dental board about his efforts to increase portability of dental licensure in Colorado, Dr. Piers reached out to his local and state dental organizations. Together, pushed by Dr. Piers’s vision, the Colorado Dental Association (CDA) pushed the Colorado State Dental Board to make Colorado the most accessible state in the country in terms of dental licensure.

The implementation of a clinical examination has been around since 1929. In 1991, a live patient exam was thought to be inappropriate and unethical. In 2016, ASDA published a white paper on licensure and published a new policy describing their view of an ideal licensure process. The white paper outlines the downfalls of the current (in 2016) licensure landscape. The L-1 policy describes the components of an ideal licensure exam:

• Does not use human subjects in a live clinical testing scenario

• Is psychometrically valid and reliable in its assessment

• Is reflective of the scope of current dental practice

• Is universally accepted

Since this policy was released, we have seen tremendous progression toward a more objective licensure exam. An alternative to a live patient exam is a DLOSCE, a Manikin - Based Exam or a Portfolio submission of comprehensive patient care. The DLOSCE (which stands for Dental Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Exam) is a high-stakes licensure examination developed by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, with roots tied to ASDA. The ADA recently announced expedited plans to release the DLOSCE in light of the current pandemic. The exam is currently accepted in Colorado, Alaska, Washington, Iowa, and Oregon.

2)    McCarran-Ferguson Act – Should dental insurance companies be able to collude to determine price for dental care?

For several decades, ASDA and the ADA have been lobbying each year to amend the McCarran-Ferguson Act. The amendment would empower the Federal Trade Commission and U.S. Department of Justice to enforce the full range of federal antitrust laws against health insurance companies engaged in anticompetitive conduct. Currently insurance companies dictate prices and insurance benefits, NOT our patients.

Repealing/revoking the limited antitrust exemption that health insurance companies currently have would help inject more competition into the insurance marketplace. This, in effect, would promote lower prices, greater consumer choice, and increased innovation through robust competition.

On September 21st, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act. It will now turn toward the Senate for a majority vote before it becomes a law. Recently, the ADA sent out a plea to all Dentists asking them to reach out to their senators of their district to encourage them to pass the bill. This is a fantastic example of how we can make a difference in our profession moving forward. This link will direct you to the publication regarding this topic.

3)    The REDI Act – Should dental students pursuing a specialty be responsible for interest on loans during their residency?

 As a student, with a small or enormous debt load, it is imperative for you to understand that ASDA encourages Congress every year to reduce student loan interest rates, provide refinancing opportunities to borrowers, and provide opportunities for loan forgiveness, scholarships, grants and tax deductibility. The biggest stride and most immediate impact that ASDA’s efforts can have on us in the next couple of years is the Resident Education Deferred Interest (REDI) Act. This act will grant students pursuing advanced education in a specialty delayed interest accrual during their time in specialty training.

 As far as the status currently, our interest rates have been frozen at 0% since March 13th, 2020 and will continue to be frozen until the new year as a part of the CARES Act law which provides relief to Federal student loan borrowers. 

Some students say things like, “What’s Advocacy and how does my voice get heard?”, “Why get involved in Advocacy now when we don’t make a difference as students?” or “This won’t impact me because I graduate in 2 years.” I have to be honest; I have said similar things, but my perspective has changed, and it is my personal opinion that the students with this mindset are less likely to be an active ADA member when they become dentists. Don’t let that be you.

I have spoken to many dental providers who not only want change, but they work for it and are passionate about results. I do not claim to be an expert in advocacy, politics, or anything close to legislation; however, I do have a strong belief and determination to be part of a group that lobbies for improvement in the dental profession, and I feel a binding obligation to educate myself in the pressing issues that face dentists and dental students.

My hope from this article is that you have a broadened understanding of the main issues that ASDA’s advocacy efforts are focused on. It’s also my desire that from this article, you are motivated to take the next step to committing yourself to helping our community, in dental school and among dentists, advance the rights and opportunities in dentistry. The easiest way to get involved in advocacy now is join Colorado ASDA at State Lobby Day sometime next year!

References

1. Advocacy 101 Webinar held by our very own, Jakob Holtzmann: https://www.asdanet.org/detail-pages/event/2020/07/24/default-calendar/advocacy-101

2. Recent ADA publication: https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2020-archive/september/competitive-health-insurance-reform-act-passes-house

3. ASDA website: https://www.asdanet.org/index/dental-student-resources/dental-licensure

About the Author

Ty Weisenburger is the current Vice President of Colorado ASDA and a third-year dental student. He has served as a leader in Colorado ASDA for 3 years. In his undergraduate experience at Brigham Young University, he served as an ASDA leader for his pre-dental chapter. Needless to say, ASDA has been an integral part in his road to becoming a dentist. When Ty is not studying or planning for ASDA events, he likes to play basketball, work on his personal business venture, and participate in High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT).

quotes compiled by Catherine Petty

It’s finally almost here…Election Day! Colorado has seen unprecedented voter turnout already - a couple of weeks ago, early voting numbers were 2400% higher (yes, you read that correctly) than they were at the same time in 2016. We’re also seeing record-breaking mail-in voting numbers nationwide. In the spirit of these exciting times, I decided to ask CUSDM students and faculty what their favorite thing about voting is. For me, it has to be my semi-annual walk to the ballot box near my house. The closest one is about a mile away and it makes for a nice little excursion. Here’s what everyone else had to say…

“My favorite thing about voting is having an impact on choosing representatives that stand by your beliefs, whatever they may be!” - Steph Guimaraes, DS2

“Every election I get to learn more about my own views and beliefs on different issues while researching the candidates” - Gitika Virdee, DS3

“My favorite part about voting is reading about other candidates and reflecting on what is most important to me and be most beneficial for the people around me. Voting is one of many important ways to not just talk the talk but walk the walk!” - Julia Kim, DS1

“Voting always reminds me that we are privileged to have a say in our government!” - Dr. Dan Wilson, Restorative Dentistry faculty

“I love having a (albeit small) voice in the way our country, state, and local government is run. I also know that voting is a privilege, and I think it’s really important to speak up not only for my own future, but for the futures of so many other people whose voices are silenced. It’s really easy to get caught up in the idea that our vote doesn’t matter, but it’s so much more than who will be president; individual votes matter greatly for state and local governments. That’s why I will always, always encourage people to use their voice too.” - Kendall Peck, DS2

“I see problems in our communities and our country that need to be addressed, and voting is one of the ways we can make sustainable changes in an equitable way.” - Alfred Li, DS3

“The ability to vote and let my voice be heard is amazing and empowering! I am thankful for the many people before me that fought for my right to vote. Especially this year as it marks the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage.” - Manti Lehn, Surgical Dentistry faculty

“In past years, it’s been fun to go in person and vote because you get to see all the other people who are there too. It always makes me happy when I see other people engaged in voting, and I wish our systems made that a reality for everyone. (Hopefully we can change that during our lifetimes.) This year specifically, though, I received the whole 2020 ballot information booklet (never knew that was a thing some states did — my home state of New Mexico certainly doesn’t) and that was AWESOME! I loved how well it explained everything and helps people make as informed of decisions as they can. I was so surprised and excited when I got it.” - Hannah Paul, DS2

“Voting encourages me to do research on important legislation that directly affects me and others in my community. Once I have done the research, I get to decide what I believe and then take action to change it!” - Lauren Mendicino, DS3

“Making sure my voice is heard!” - anonymous DS2

“My favorite thing about voting? Knowing I exercised my voice and had an impact on the way I want the future to look. Elections may not always go the way we want, but if you are able to participate in the process and choose not to, then you can’t complain about the outcome. I’ve been a voter for more than 20 years and have not missed an election yet! Why do I vote? I vote with my 7 year old son in mind. I want him to inherit a world that is better than what currently exists; the society more free and more just, the community more safe, and the environment more clean. When it’s not election season? I still vote, but I vote with my wallet. I identify companies whose philosophies and business practices align with my opinions on the issues I care about, and I support them by being a loyal customer.“ - Dr. Lindsey Yates, Restorative Dentistry faculty

“Being able to participate in our democracy and being able to weigh in on issues and who you want to represent you.” - Maddy Parris-Bacon, DS2

“Aside from also voting on a mosquito chair this year (which I found hilarious and #justfloridathings) I’d say having a role (however small) in shaping the future of my country is so cool. As a student, I don’t get the time to be as actively involved in my community as I would like. However, exercising my ability to cast a vote in matters that matter helps me to build a future that I can only hope is a positive one. I enjoy the fact that Americans from all life experiences and backgrounds have the right to exercise their unique opinions on how best to lead our country. I am so grateful to be able to use my own unique viewpoint to contribute to meaningful change.” - Sierra Rose, DS3

“It’s important to remind ourselves that we are the ones in control of how we want to be represented. Those in power are there because we chose them to be. My favorite thing about voting is having the power to choose who will represent me.” - Ginneth Trujillo, DS2

“Voting is your way to contribute with the democracy; not every country offers this privilege” - Dr. Fernando Astorga, Restorative Dentistry faculty

“My favorite part is voicing my support for candidates and initiatives that will demonstrate the values that I think make the world a better place.” - Jake Holtzmann, DS3

Feeling inspired yet? You’ve got less than a week left to make your voice heard. Don’t forget…and vote early while you’re at it!

by stephanie guimaraes

With September being ASDA’s Wellness month, we should all be checking in on ourselves and others on not only physical activity, but mental health as well. In the midst of a pandemic, it may feel like the perfect storm to begin worrying about the future, but this is the time to take steps to support each other and find ways to stay strong during the unknown.

Mental health awareness has always been a topic near to my heart, but at the same time, it is a topic that not many, including myself, are used to talking about openly. In a recent CDC study, a survey on adult mental health showed that young adults reported the highest levels of symptoms of anxiety and depression at a staggering 62.9% reporting either or both. The stigma behind mental health remains, even as our evolving world works to make it as ordinary as physical health. Open conversation about therapy & seeking help is growing in the media we intake, but it’s our job to keep that conversation going in our lives.

Here are some tips to making sure we’re keeping our mental health a priority:

1. Create a routine for yourself to regain a grasp on your life. Routine gives a sense of normalcy, so if you’re starting your days off with a plan, your brain will thank you for the lowered stress!

2. Take care of your body, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Your mind-body connection is more sensitive than normal. Get enough sleep. Drink plenty of water. Eat your nutrients. Quiet your mind with meditation. Be compassionate with yourself at this overwhelming time.

3. Make time right now for the things you enjoy. Whether it be diving into a good book, going on a walk outdoors, or watching your favorite TV series, setting aside time for something you know will boost your mood is a great way to look forward in life.

4. Allow yourself time in the sun! Experts say that vitamin D can be a vital mood elevator. In a state with 300 days of sunshine a year, take some time of your day to soak it up (with SPF, of course).

5. Open up to someone. There’s nothing braver than identifying when need help and requesting it. As said by Maya Angelou, “there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you.” Talk to a professional about how you’re feeling. Reach out to your loved ones, as this offers an opportunity for them to open up as well!

We’re at a moment where the ground feels unstable. The personal worry about the future combined with the wide-scale global worry can feel heavy and hopeless at times. It is a different rhythm of life currently, but one we can manage and get through. Help your mental health by taking venturous steps toward staying in touch with yourself and others. By embracing good mental health practices, we can seek protection in stressful times and inspire those around us to do the same.

About the Author

Steph Guimaraes is originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is currently a D2 at CU, and she attended undergrad at the University of Florida where she studied Biology. Steph is incredibly passionate about women’s health and mental health awareness. In her free time, she loves to watch movies, read books, and hang out with her friends.