![Mariangel Morales](/sites/default/files/styles/100x140/public/2024-02/Mariangel_Morales%20424x594.jpg?h=b8ffb946&itok=v73aB7p_)
"I believe that our smile is our presentation card, and assisting someone in attaining the smile they've always wanted can profoundly enhance their happiness and self-assuredness. I aspire to help fulfill my patients' desired smile."
Hometown:
San Cristobal, Tachira, Venezuela
Undergraduate degree and Master's degree:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Biology and Political Sciences from Indiana State University, May 2018.
Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences from PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, May 2021.
Master of Science in Precision Medicine from PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, May 2022.
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
What inspired me to pursue a healthcare career was my early passion for the sciences and a deep desire to help others. Coming from a family of healthcare professionals, they served as role models and shaped my aspirations. My genuine enjoyment of connecting with people and making a meaningful impact on their lives drove me to choose a path where I could contribute to society and find personal fulfillment in my profession.
How did your background and history factor into your career choice?
Growing up, I had the privilege of witnessing the positive impact of dentistry on people's lives, and it's a profession that genuinely fulfills me and that I'm deeply passionate about. I was fortunate enough to witness my mom change her patients' lives by boosting their confidence and self-esteem by helping them achieve the smiles they had always dreamed of. I believe that our smile is our presentation card, and assisting someone in attaining the smile they've always wanted can profoundly enhance their happiness and self-assuredness. I aspire to help fulfill my patients' desired smile and assist them in maintaining their oral health.
Why did you decide to attend PÕ¾ÊÓƵ?
Three main factors led me to choose PÕ¾ÊÓƵ: its curriculum, environment, and faculty. PÕ¾ÊÓƵ's dental curriculum stood out for its enriching depth in areas that other dental programs merely touch upon. For example, we receive comprehensive training on implant placement in our second year and in-depth training in understanding and diagnosing temporomandibular disorders (TMJ, which involves two joints connecting the skull to the lower jaw). Furthermore, PÕ¾ÊÓƵ emphasizes the importance of collaborating with other healthcare professionals in a holistic approach to patient care. In terms of the environment, PÕ¾ÊÓƵ is an inclusive and welcoming community where diversity is a genuine priority. Lastly, the faculty at PÕ¾ÊÓƵ has been nothing short of exceptional. They serve as remarkable mentors not only within the dental program but also across various master's programs. The commitment of PÕ¾ÊÓƵ's faculty to student success and professional growth goes above and beyond. I have the utmost confidence that I am studying at the finest institution with an unparalleled team of educators and mentors.
What about a PÕ¾ÊÓƵ education do you want to carry forward in your career?
From my time at PÕ¾ÊÓƵ, I want to carry forward its strong commitment to service and make the world a better place. I aspire to be a healthcare professional who goes above and beyond for my patients, inspired by the dedication and care shown by PÕ¾ÊÓƵ's faculty towards their students.