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Meet the Grads

Hunter M. Wright

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
School of Dentistry

Each day provides me with the opportunity to use my hands and interpersonal skills to influence the lives of others. It’s rewarding to see those who were once embarrassed to laugh, and smile leave the office laughing and smiling freely.

Hometown

Bolt, West Virginia

Undergraduate degree

B.S. in Biology (Molecular Emphasis), Concord University, Athens, West Virginia

Next move

I’ll be moving back to my hometown of Bolt with my wife where I will be going into practice as an associate with my oldest brother and his business partner in Oceana, WV.  I’m so eager and excited to provide for and treat the people of rural southern West Virginia. 

What made you want to earn your D.D.S.?

I always knew I wanted to help people—specifically in the health field. I love working with my hands, interacting with people, laughing with others, and having time to spend with my wife, family, and friends. Dentistry allows me to do all of these. Each day provides me with the opportunity to use my hands and interpersonal skills to influence the lives of others. It’s rewarding to see those who were once embarrassed to laugh, and smile leave the office laughing and smiling freely. All the while, I’m able to spend an abundance of time with those that I love most. 

Why did you choose to earn your degree at WVU?

West Virginia is home. As is the dream of many children who grow up in West Virginia, my dream was to be a Mountaineer! I knew from the day I submitted my application that if I had the opportunity to enroll as a student at WVU School of Dentistry, I would without hesitation. Also, I’d always heard from WVU School of Dentistry alumni and those who have hired past graduates that WVU dental students are some of the best when it comes to clinical experience. I wanted that for myself and for the patients that I would be caring for. 

What school-related events or activities did you enjoy the most and why?

I thoroughly enjoyed my rural rotation experience during the fall semester of my fourth year, during which I spent six weeks with Drs. Valerie and Chip Perrine in Cowen, WV. This opportunity allowed me to get a taste of rural private practice, which has always been an interest to me. I learned so much about dentistry, business, mentorship, and simply caring for those who need it most. 

The relationships Dr. Perrine and Chip have with their patients were not only professional doctor/patient relationships, but friendships. The dynamic between provider and patient is one of the most important aspects of dentistry, and of all the things I learned and experienced on my rural rotation, getting to know the patients I treated was what I enjoyed most. 

What will you miss most about WVU?

While I’ll miss many things I’ve gained during my time here; I’ll sorely miss the friendships I’ve made during my time in Morgantown. I’ve made lifelong friends with my classmates, faculty, and others in the community—such as at the church that I attend.  Nothing beats the conversations and laughs shared, or the moments and memories made.