San Diego, California, United States
As a psychology major graduate of Franklin & Marshall College, I am passionate about understanding the intricate relationship between the brain and behavior. I aim to pursue a career in neuropsychology, leveraging my background in psychology and research to explore cognitive functions, mental health, and neurological disorders. I have gained valuable skills and experience in both fields through my education and work history. I have worked as a dental assistant at two different practices, Farrow Orthodontics and Bryn Mawr Dental Associates, supporting dentists and patients with various tasks and procedures. I have also been involved in research projects at the Monell Chemical Senses Center, which has strengthened my knowledge of taste and smell, leading to the publication of three papers in sensory research. Additionally, I have engaged in psychology research at Franklin and Marshall and during my study abroad in Madrid. I am fluent in Finnish and English, and proficient in Spanish.
I organized community service projects involving local Lancaster, PA businesses, and community organizations. Furthermore, I was involved in organizing fundraising events to raise money for local organizations, Meals on Wheels, and The Kindly Hearts Initiative, which supports FosterClub and StandUp for Kids.
As an orthodontic dental assistant, I supported orthodontists in the execution of a wide range of procedures, ensuring that all aspects of patient care and treatment were efficiently managed. I gained proficiency in utilizing digital impression systems, including the iTero scanner, to facilitate clear aligner treatments and ensure precise records. Additionally, I assisted with the placement of braces, attachments, and other orthodontic appliances, adhering to established protocols to optimize patient outcomes. I was responsible for capturing intraoral and extraoral photographs, as well as obtaining panoramic and cephalometric x-rays, which were integral to diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning. Furthermore, I contributed to patient management by maintaining accurate records, scheduling appointments, and ensuring a clean and organized environment. Throughout my experience, I developed strong communication skills, effectively educating patients and providing reassurance, while also reinforcing the importance of compliance with orthodontic treatment protocols.
At Bryn Mawr Dental Associates, I gained hands-on experience in both general and orthodontic dentistry. I assisted in various restorative procedures, including bonding, fillings, and crown placements, while adhering to established sterilization protocols to maintain a safe and sterile environment. I also became proficient in utilizing the iTero scanner for clear aligner treatments, assisting with attachment placements, and following clear aligner protocols. Additionally, I acquired practical knowledge in using the Damon Q2 and Ultima systems for orthodontic treatments. My responsibilities extended to capturing intraoral and extraoral photographs, as well as obtaining panoramic and cephalometric images to assist in diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning.
I was working as a research student studying the prevalence of gustatory dysfunction in symptomatic COVID-19 patients. I also assisted with the Gates bitter-blocking project, which aims to identify a universal taste blocker, and the SCENTinel taste tests, which are used to detect olfactory dysfunction.