When Natalie Anderson first envisioned a career in healthcare, she imagined herself becoming a veterinarian. She loved the medical side of the work but found herself wanting deeper, longer‑lasting relationships with the people she served. A suggestion from her brother, who is now a practicing dentist, opened her eyes to dentistry. After shadowing several dentists and observing their fulfillment, work-life balance and patient connections, Anderson knew she had found the right fit.
That sense of purpose strengthened throughout dental school, particularly as she followed patients through multiple years of care. “Finishing treatment on patients I’ve seen for the last two years has been one of the most rewarding parts of school,” she said. “Especially when they came in with significant anxiety and were able to leave feeling comfortable and cared for. That was really heartwarming.”
Growth Through Challenge and Trust
Dental school challenged Anderson in ways she didn’t expect. While academics felt familiar, developing hand skills was a steep learning curve. “I’m not artistic, and that made wax lab and early hand skills really tough for me,” she said.
Treating patients added another layer, especially when managing procedures for patients experiencing dental anxiety, which was something Anderson encountered regularly. She said, “It taught me how to be patient, both with myself and with others.” Over time, she learned to accept that mistakes are part of growth, and eventually she learned she could trust her clinical judgment.
One recent patient encounter solidified that growth. After completing treatment, a nervous patient expressed her gratitude and told Anderson she wished she could keep seeing her for future care. “You hear criticism a lot as you go through dental school,” Anderson said. “So having that moment of validation meant everything.”
Preparation has become the foundation of Anderson’s philosophy of care. She prioritizes reviewing cases thoroughly, anticipating questions and clearly explaining procedures so patients feel confident in her work. “When patients know their provider is prepared, it helps to reduce anxiety,” she explained. She hopes patients leave her chair feeling healthier, resolved and genuinely cared for, especially in an era where misinformation on social media has fueled skepticism and fear around dental treatment.
Exploring Dentistry Beyond the Clinic
Early in dental school, Anderson explored research as a Summer Research Scholar in a biomaterials laboratory with Senior Associate Dean for Research Jeffrey Stansbury, PhD. With no prior background in dental materials, she spent the summer learning about composite chemistry and investigating how small changes could impact performance. “It was something I really enjoyed exploring during my first year,” she said. “It helped me build confidence, learn how research works and push myself outside my comfort zone.” She later presented her work at student and national meetings, which are experiences she values, even though research isn’t her long‑term focus.
Leadership became a more defining part of her dental school journey. Anderson served as an alternate delegate for the Colorado chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) before being elected president of the organization. Through ASDA, she built connections across the country and strengthened her advocacy and leadership skills. She was also inducted into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, dentistry’s national honor society, recognizing her academic achievement and promise.
Carrying Lessons Forward
Looking back, Anderson’s advice for future dental students is simple: expect ups and downs, but don’t lose sight of yourself. “You’ll become a really competent dentist,” she said. “Just make sure you hold on to what you enjoy outside of school.” For her, that means biking and skiing.
After graduation, Anderson will attend Officer Development School in Newport, Rhode Island, before completing a one‑year General Practice Residency at Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, California, as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy. Through the Health Professions Scholarship Program, she committed to at least four years of service after residency. Drawn to professional growth and the opportunity to experience different parts of the country, she is excited to step into this next chapter.
As she prepares to graduate, Anderson carries forward the lessons that defined her dental school journey: growth comes through challenges, patient care starts with listening, and preparation builds trust.
