Dental Student Profile
Hunt School of Dental Medicine Student Profile: Gentry Nielson
“The most satisfying part of dental school will be looking back at the patients and community I served and feeling a sense of accomplishment and connection. I hope to play a big part in improving oral health in the El Paso area.”
Tell us a little about your background. Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?
I grew up in Philadelphia and earned my undergraduate degree from Utah State University. I was working in technology sales when our company was acquired by Adobe, which made my career fun and exciting at the time. Along the way, my wife and I had two boys.
Who or what moment inspired you to go into dentistry?
Everything was going well with my job and career. Still, with all the outward success, I felt unfulfilled. I wanted to look back on my life and see that I chose a path to a more meaningful career.
The pandemic allowed me to take a step back and re-evaluate. I left dentistry on the table at the end of my undergraduate experience to start a family and explore a different path. Once I revisited my dream of becoming a health professional – specifically in dentistry – I felt a sense of relief knowing this was the right path for me.
Why is the Hunt School of Dental Medicine the best place for you?
Given my career experience, I didn’t want to just go to school. I wanted to help build something. There’s no better place to do that than at a brand-new school in an underserved area. I feel the community support, and I’m energized by the faculty and community’s willingness to go above and beyond for us as students. I wanted a unique experience, and I’m getting it in all aspects.
What have been your challenges?
We’re the trailblazing inaugural class, and we’re also the guinea pigs. There are some challenges associated with such a unique and dynamic curriculum, not to mention the clinical operations. Trial-and-error is expected, but I’m excited to push the limits and see what’s possible. We’re flexible whenever those challenges do arise.
Do you have any mentors who have helped you along the way?
Wade Thompson, D.D.S., in Orem, Utah, has been an exceptional mentor. Yvonne Kobe, my pre-health advisor at Utah State University, was a huge advocate and cheerleader for me as I made the career change. Most importantly, my wife, Kelli, is the biggest supporter and motivator. She’s encouraged me to follow my dreams every step of the way.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to those aspiring to go into dentistry?
I used to hear the cliché that “money can’t buy happiness.” Whether that’s true or not, one thing I know for sure, and had to learn through years of experience, is that money doesn’t buy fulfillment. Happiness is one thing, but fulfillment and true success are another. I believe dentistry to be a great way for me to find true fulfillment in providing compassionate service.
Do you have any family you would like to mention?
Kelli and my two sons, Chandler and RJ. Also, my parents and siblings have been amazing advocates for me in pursuing dentistry.
What is something about you people might not know?
I lived in Northern France and Belgium from 2011 to 2013, and I’m fluent in French.
What do you like most about El Paso, or do you find unique about the region?
I love the family culture. It fits who I am and how I hope to continue with my own family.