Iris Aguilera, UT Health San Antonio

Choosing dental hygiene has been one of the most meaningful decisions of my life, not only because it aligns with my passion for health care, but because it has shaped who I am as a mother, a student, and a future professional. My interest in dentistry began with my own unique dental history. I still have my primary teeth—C and H—because my permanent #6 and #11 remain impacted. Growing up with this made me feel self-conscious and different, especially during a time when smiling confidently felt important. Instead of discouraging me, it fueled my desire to understand oral health more deeply. I learned firsthand how much a smile affects self-esteem, comfort, and quality of life, and this experience inspired me to help others feel confident in their own smiles.

Balancing dental hygiene school with family life has strengthened my commitment to this profession. I am a wife and a mother, and everything I do is rooted in my desire to build a better future for my family. Managing coursework, clinical requirements, community rotations, and exam preparation while raising a child has taught me time management, discipline, and perseverance. There were days I felt overwhelmed, but seeing my child watch me study or prepare for clinic reminded me why I began this journey—to show them what dedication looks like and to demonstrate that pursuing a meaningful career is worth the effort.

Dental hygiene school has also changed the way I view patient care. Through community outreach, pediatric rotations, and public health programs, I have gained an appreciation for the unique barriers many people face. I have worked with patients experiencing homelessness, children with limited access to care, and individuals with cultural and social challenges that impact their oral health. These experiences taught me to show compassion, to listen without judgment, and to understand that every patient carries their own story. My own dental challenges help me connect with others who feel anxious or embarrassed about their oral condition. I never want a patient to feel alone or misunderstood.

What I love most about dental hygiene is the blend of science, education, and human connection. I enjoy working with my hands, analyzing clinical findings, and creating personalized care plans that support health and confidence. The profession allows me to help people on a personal level, whether by relieving discomfort, improving oral health, or simply giving someone the confidence to smile again. It is a privilege to be trusted with something so important.

This scholarship would greatly support my educational journey and relieve some of the financial strain on my family as I complete my program. I am committed to becoming a knowledgeable, compassionate, and community-focused dental hygienist who advocates for oral health and strives to make a positive difference in every patient’s life. Dental hygiene is more than a career path for me—it is my calling, my passion, and a way to serve others while building a strong foundation for my family’s future.