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Meet the Grads

Kayla Courtney

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
School of Dentistry

I chose WVU not only because I am a Mountaineer at heart, but also because of the excellent training I knew I would receive that would prepare me to be the best clinician I can be.

Hometown

Cumberland, MD

Undergraduate degree

B.S. in Biology, West Virginia University 

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

I became interested in dentistry when I was in the 6th grade. I grew up with two parents in healthcare and always found it interesting. I loved to work with my hands and I loved talking to and caring for people! I knew I wanted to go into healthcare, but really decided on dentistry when I began shadowing in high school, then working as a dental assistant in college. I found the profession to be very rewarding and dentistry seemed like the perfect path for me!

Why did you chose WVU?

Although I am from out-of-state, my family is from West Virginia and it has always felt like home to me. After earning my bachelor's degree at WVU, it was an easy decision to choose the WVU School of Dentistry to further my education! I chose WVU not only because I am a Mountaineer at heart, but also because of the excellent training I knew I would receive that would prepare me to be the best clinician I can be.

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

Being a part of organizations and clubs was one of the best experiences I had in dental school. All students are members of ASDA upon enrollment, however I served as an executive board member my third year. This gave me the opportunity to attend conferences with dental students from schools across the nation! I was able to meet so many great people, attend CE events, and network! I was also a member of Delta Sigma Delta all four years which provided me with community service opportunities as well as some great friendships and memories!

As a soon-to-be graduate, what is your advice to incoming students?

Remember to take a deep breath and it will all be okay! Dental school can be stressful, but your classmates truly become like family. You will lean on one another, study together, laugh and cry together, and succeed together! Remember to work hard but also take care of yourself, and don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it!

What are you excited for next?

I am most excited to start an entirely new chapter of my life! After studying for 8 long years, I am so ready to get into the community and serve the people of the great state of West Virginia!