One of the most challenging things about trying to become a dentist is knowing where to start. Sometimes, the problem is that you have too many voices in your ear at once, giving you an overwhelming amount of advice. Other times, the problem is a complete lack of guidance and support, leaving you confused about what steps to take next.

In my experience, one of the hardest things about being in an underrepresented minority trying to find my way through dentistry was finding mentorship from those that I could personally identify with. Representation is critical. When we see doctors who share similar backgrounds to our own, it gives us the courage to achieve our own goals and dreams. They act as role models who inspire us, guide us, and challenge us. But more than anything, we see ourselves represented in their shoes, showing us that we are capable of the same things.

One of the primary reasons Just Flossy was created was to serve as a resource for mentorship and encouragement, especially for underrepresented students. I hope that by sharing my own experiences, both successes and failures, it will motivate other students to continue on their venture. The journey to dental school can be long and difficult, but remember that there is “beauty in the struggle”, and that everyone’s path is different. Despite the challenges and obstacles to come, Just Flossy is here to act as a source of positivity and guidance as you navigate the road to dentistry as a minority of the whole.