Dental Student Profile

Hunt School of Dental Medicine Student Profile: Rebecca Russell

“The impact I plan to have in dental school will remain long after graduation as I continue supporting underserved communities and fighting against health disparities.”

Tell us a little about your background. Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?

I grew up in Grapevine, Texas, a small town between Dallas and Fort Worth. I went to high school at Colleyville Heritage High School and completed my undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University.

Who or what moment inspired you to go into dentistry?

My dad had various health issues when I was younger, which inspired me to go into health care. A family friend introduced me to the idea of dentistry my junior year of high school, and I really enjoyed my time shadowing him, so I decided to pursue it as a career.

Why is the Hunt School of Dental Medicine the best place for you?

The Hunt School of Dental Medicine is the perfect place for me because of the people. All the faculty and my fellow classmates are so supportive and genuine. I’m most looking forward to getting into the clinic early and starting to treat patients. Juggling my classes, personal life and mental health will definitely be the most challenging aspect of dental school, but it will be so satisfying to see patients’ oral health progress and how big of a difference we can make.

How does it feel to be part of the inaugural class at the Hunt School of Dental Medicine?

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the inaugural class. I feel so honored and humbled that I was selected. Because of this opportunity, I plan to positively impact the oral health of the El Paso community and surrounding areas, especially for the underserved.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to those aspiring to go into dentistry?

One piece of advice that I’d give to someone aspiring to go into dentistry would be to work hard but always remember to put your mental health first. It’s hard to get into dental school, and once you get in, it gets even harder, but you must give yourself breaks and do things that make you happy.

What are your interests and hobbies?

I love to cook, shop, decorate, party plan, play with my dog and hang out with my friends and family.

Do you have any family you would like to mention?

I’d love to mention my amazing parents. They have always had my back and supported all my dreams. I would also like to say my boyfriend has been my rock throughout undergrad, and he moved his entire life to be with me in El Paso to support me through dental school.

What do you like most about El Paso, or do you find unique about the region?

Some of the things I like most about El Paso are the beautiful mountains and the friendly and genuine nature of the people who live here.