Dental Student Profile

Hunt School of Dental Medicine Student Profile: Seth Hartman

“There are so many opportunities for me to have a real impact. Most importantly, I’ll have an opportunity to help someone smile who hasn’t smiled in a while. That’s amazing.”

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

I’m from Bridge City, a small town in Texas. With only 8,000 people, there are a lot of bridges but not a lot of city. My mom, Julie Malloy, was a single mom who, for a long time, cut hair when I was younger. She decided to go to nursing school, and I watched her become a licensed vocational nurse, then return to college and become a registered nurse. It was amazing to see her set a goal and reach it. I followed her lead and attended the University of Texas at Austin for a degree in neuroscience with a minor in business.

Who or what moment inspired you to go into dentistry?

I grew up poor. We didn’t have the money to go and see health professionals, let alone a dentist. While most kids were scared to visit the dentist, it was always something I cherished. It felt amazing to walk away with a clean smile. I want to go into pediatric dentistry and be that person I looked up to as a kid. If I can put a smile on someone’s face by assuring them everything will be okay, I’ll know I’m doing exactly what I’m meant to be doing.

What aspects of the unique curriculum are you most looking forward to?

This is one of the most unique schools in the country. There’s a lot of focus on people first. I think the Hunt School of Dental Medicine will teach me how to be a great dentist, but it’ll also help me be a great person along the way. I was brought up to leave each place better than how I found it, and I believe everything I learn at the school will help me do that.

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

I feel lucky and excited to leave my mark and set the precedent on being a loving and caring student and dental professional. As the first of many, I’ll give it my all and spread the type of compassion we all deserve.

Do you have any mentors who have helped you along the way?

I don’t think I would be here without Dr. Steve Hernandez, a pediatric dentist. He allowed me to come in and shadow him. He helped me not only from the dental side, but also taught me how to run a business. He took the time to explain the front-of-office and back-of-house dentistry. That type of experience will only help me while in school and long after.

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

The people. When I came to the interview, I met some of the kindest people. My interactions showed how friendly people in the community are. That makes it even more exciting to know this is where I’ll be learning, volunteering and growing.