"Why do you want to be a dental hygienist?" This question delves deep into the very essence of my life, my experiences, and the profound motivations that have driven me to embark on this path. To fully understand my desire to become a dental hygienist, it is essential to explore my life's journey from humble beginnings in Fajikunda, Gambia, to the momentous decision to pursue this noble profession.

 From an early age, where the harsh realities of poverty were an integral part of daily life. There were times when my family struggled to secure enough food to sustain us, making even basic necessities seem like unattainable luxuries. Growing up in these conditions, the concept of proper hygiene was a distant dream. Our limited resources meant we could not afford new clothes or shoes when they were torn or worn out. Instead, we relied on our resourcefulness and hand-sewed them together as best we could, making do with what we had.

In the realm of oral hygiene, our situation was equally challenging. I cannot recall ever owning a proper toothbrush during my time in Gambia. Instead, we relied on African chewing sticks, a simple yet effective tool for maintaining oral health. While these sticks served their purpose, they were a stark reminder of the economic hardships we faced, preventing us from accessing modern dental care. Beyond these material struggles, there was a profound lack of awareness regarding dental health and the role of a dentist or dental hygienist

In 2008, my life took an extraordinary turn when I, along with my mother and older sister, immigrated to the Louisville, Kentucky. It was here that I experienced a life-altering moment that would forever shape my aspirations. I visited the dentist for the first time, and the experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

I vividly remember the vibrant, colorful surroundings of the dental office and the warmth with which we were greeted. At that time, I did not speak English, and communication could have been a daunting obstacle. However, fate smiled upon us, for there was a dental hygienist who spoke Mandinka, my native language. She graciously stepped forward, becoming our bridge to understanding the intricacies of dental care. Her ability to convey complex dental procedures and oral health advice in a language I could comprehend left an indelible impression on me.

In that moment, as I looked at the dental hygienist with admiration and gratitude, a profound realization washed over me. I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that I wanted to be like her. Her role in providing essential oral healthcare and facilitating communication for those who, like me, were navigating a foreign healthcare system was nothing short of heroic. It was in that dentist's office, through her kindness and professionalism, that my life's purpose began to crystallize.

From that transformative experience, my aspiration to become a dental hygienist was born. I saw in this profession the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people's lives, especially those who, like me in my early days, lacked access to dental care or struggled with language barriers. The dental hygienist had become a beacon of hope, and I wanted to follow in her footsteps, dedicating my life to improving oral health and breaking down communication barriers for underserved communities.

Moreover, I yearn to be a dental hygienist who travels to different countries, especially those struggling with limited access to dental care, just as I once did. I wish to contribute my knowledge, skills, and empathy to communities that are in dire need, just as I wished for someone to extend their hand to my village. By venturing into underserved regions, I hope to empower individuals and communities with the essential tools for improved oral health and hygiene. My goal is to bridge the gap in healthcare disparities, breaking down barriers to access and communication, and ensuring that no one is denied the right to quality dental care due to their circumstances. This vision of being a global dental hygienist and a beacon of compassion for those in need continues to drive my unwavering commitment to this noble profession.

In conclusion, my journey from a small village in Fajikunda, Gambia, to my determination to become a dental hygienist in the United States is a testament to the transformative power of experiences and the indomitable spirit of human resilience. The hardships I faced instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of oral hygiene, while my encounter with a compassionate dental hygienist inspired my lifelong goal. My desire to become a dental hygienist is not just a career choice; it is a heartfelt commitment to bridging gaps in access to dental care and promoting oral health awareness. Through dedication and hard work, I aim to repay the kindness shown to me and help others, regardless of their background, access the same level of compassionate and effective dental care that I was fortunate enough to experience.