In her own words
Huyen Nguyen
As a low-income, first-generation college student, pursuing higher education has been a key step in overcoming challenges and realizing my aspirations. My time at the University of Pittsburgh, majoring in Health Informatics, has provided me with a strong foundation in both healthcare and technology. These experiences have fostered my passion for improving patient outcomes, which I aim to pursue through a career in dentistry. My education in Health Informatics allows me to view dentistry through a broader lens—one that integrates technology to improve treatment outcomes and operational efficiency. For example, my experience with data analytics has taught me how to analyze patient trends, streamline workflows, and ensure that care is both effective and efficient. I intend to apply these skills to dental care, leveraging digital tools and data-driven insights to improve patient experiences and outcomes in my future practice. Additionally, becoming a dentist will allow me to give back to underserved communities. As someone who has faced financial challenges and seen my parents struggle, I am committed to making dental care accessible to marginalized populations. Higher education will equip me with the clinical skills and knowledge to offer comprehensive dental care, while also empowering me to address broader healthcare disparities. This academic journey is preparing me to become not only a skilled dentist but also an advocate for using technology to advance public health and make a lasting impact in my community.