Dental Student Profile
Hunt School of Dental Medicine Student Profile: Conley Green
“I’ve enjoyed the people in El Paso. Everyone has been so kind and accommodating; in such a way, it stands out. While a lot of us might see ourselves differently, the people here are very similar to people in Lubbock. It feels good knowing that even though I left my hometown, I’m around a community where the culture and people have remained true to what’s so special about the hospitality of West Texans.”
Tell us a little about your background. Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school?
I’m from Lubbock, Texas, born and raised. Everything in Lubbock has a small-town feel, and everyone knows everyone. I attended Texas Tech University and earned a degree in biology with a minor in chemistry.
Who or what moment inspired you to go into dentistry?
My parents, Brian and Shelby Green, are both general dentists in Lubbock. They were attending the School of Dentistry at UT Health San Antonio when they met. I grew up watching them work together in the same office, and I was able to get a real sense of dentistry. The more time I spent in their office, the more I liked every aspect of dentistry.
What aspects of the unique curriculum are you most looking forward to?
Without a doubt, the fact that we’ll get clinical experience the first year is what I’m most looking forward to. I’ve had the opportunity to watch many dental procedures as I shadowed dentists, so knowing that will be me soon is very exciting.
Why is the Hunt School of Dental Medicine the best place for you?
There are a lot of reasons. First, proximity is a big deal. I have a lot of family in Lubbock, so making that drive home when I want to see them means a lot. I also love that the school is part of the Texas Tech University System. It was almost a no-brainer that this is where I need to be.
How does it feel to be part of the inaugural class at the Hunt School of Dental Medicine?
It feels amazing. To leave my mark on the city and the school system, and paving the way for all the future classes is huge. I hope that as part of the inaugural class, I can bring more awareness to oral health in El Paso and West Texas.
Do you have any mentors who have helped you along the way?
Dr. Robert Ioppolo is an oral surgeon in Lubbock and allowed me to work in his office for two years. He is truly a class act. Seeing how he cares for people really opened my eyes to how generous and caring you can be for the people you’re helping. He treated everyone with respect and provided excellent care, and they remember that. Because of my experiences in his office, I fell in love with oral surgery and plan to become an oral surgeon myself.