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Education
I attended University of Illinois in Urbana Champaign for undergrad, first studying aeronautical engineering and then biology. I graduated with a BS in 1990. I then attended Univeristy of Illinois Chicago for my DDS degree graduating in 1995. I followed this with a one year General Practice/Hospital Residency at Illinoin Masonic Medical Center in Chicago. Finally, I attending the University of Michigan where I received my MS in Orthodontics.
Why did you become a orthodontist?
I wanted to be an orthodontist since I was in middle school. I think it is very rare that a childhood dream becomes a reality, but mine did! I was born to blue collar parents who did not graduate from college although my mom was registered nurse for 50 years. I was always a high achiever and focused on doing well in school. I decided to be an orthodontist just like every other orthodontist…bringing confidence to people by giving them beautiful smiles. I had a great smile (it has always been one of my best features) but terribly crooked teeth. I loved my gorgeous smile after 3 years of braces and the confidence that I gained, I wanted to bring that to other teens and adults. But the best part of all of this is the relationships that I am able to build with my patients. It is so important to find those connections that make us the same and I do my best to foster close relationships with my patents. This is why I continue to love the practice of orthodontics.
Interesting Facts
I am a mom of four children ranging from 13 to 23. All my kids wore braces, I wore braces. So I have experience as both a practioner and a parent going through the orthodontic process. I was also a big sister to 5 younger siblings. I am a very diverse individual. I play piano, was a dancer from age 2 through my college years, I love love love to read. I am a Denver Nuggets fanatic and also love watching almost all sports(although an average player) I can connect to almost any kid… as I was super involved in activities in middle school, high school and college…from cheerleading, to student council, to band and choir, to dance team in college, to sorority life. I also come from a middle class American family who through higher education (and lots of student loans) has persevered to become a doctor.