How has ASDA helped you build your leadership skills?
Since joining ASDA and getting involved in leadership, I’ve represented UNLV at conferences where I’ve met other students and dentists who have inspired and motivated me. Working to share this motivation with students at my school has made me a better leader.

What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader?
There are two that really stand out to me. First is consistency. I’d like to think that qualities aren’t something we possesses, but something we practice. Someone who shows up every day, puts their excuses aside and gets to work is someone who I’d be inherently driven to follow. The other one is the ability to make difficult decisions with confidence. This is a quality I’m working on developing and, for me, is a major difference between a good and great leader.

Why should members get involved with ASDA leadership positions?
Dentistry needs confident leaders who can serve as advocates for both the patients and the career. ASDA offers an unmatched introduction into advocacy for organized dentistry and offers the resources dental students need to get informed and get involved. If you’re a good leader, then get involved in your local ASDA chapter and share your talents. If you’re not as confident in your ability to lead, then get involved in your local ASDA chapter and take advantage of this opportunity to develop confidence and skills you’ll use throughout your career.

What future leadership roles in organized dentistry interest you and why?
I’m interested in being involved in leadership within the ADA. I’d like to focus on my own community because that’s where I can have the most influence, but I’d also enjoy being involved in my state association.