Salinas native and ATSU-ASDOH student Jennifer Hernandez Ramos wants to bring representation to field

Salinas native and ATSU-ASDOH student Jennifer Hernandez Ramos wants to bring representation to field

Growing up in Salinas, California, Jennifer Hernandez Ramos, D2, understood early on how much it matters for patients to see themselves reflected in their healthcare providers; an insight that now shapes her path through A.T. Still University's Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-ASDOH), class of 2029.

A 2021 graduate of University of California, Davis with a bachelor of science in psychology and an emphasis in biology, Hernandez Ramos serves as secretary of the Hispanic Student Dental Association (HSDA), social media coordinator for the ASDOH Association of Women Dentists (AAWD), and a member of the Special Care Dentistry Association (SCDA).

Why did you choose ATSU-ASDOH?

"I chose ATSU because its mission aligned closely with the kind of dentist I hope to become. Coming from an underrepresented background, I understand how meaningful it can be for patients to see themselves represented in their healthcare providers and to feel genuinely understood. I was drawn to ATSU's commitment to whole person healthcare, service, and underserved communities because I wanted to train in an environment where I could use my background and experiences to help patients feel comfortable, heard, and cared for. ATSU felt like a place where I could grow not only as a clinician, but as a compassionate dentist who can make a meaningful difference in the communities I serve."

What do you enjoy about being an ATSU student?

"What I enjoy most about being an ATSU student is the sense of community. Dental school is challenging, but there is something special about going through it alongside classmates who celebrate one another's milestones, help each other through difficult weeks, and still find reasons to laugh in between. From practicing together in simulation clinic to attending student organization events, volunteering, mentoring, and connecting across class years, there are so many opportunities to build relationships outside of academics. Some of my favorite moments have been the simple ones that make dental school feel less like something I am just completing and more like a community I am genuinely part of."

What do you hope to achieve professionally, and how is ATSU helping prepare you for your career?

"My goal is to become a general dentist who provides compassionate, culturally responsive care and helps make dentistry more accessible to patients who may otherwise face barriers to care. I am particularly passionate about serving Spanish-speaking and underserved communities. ATSU is preparing me through early clinical experiences, community-focused education, interprofessional learning, and an emphasis on treating the person rather than simply the condition. Ultimately, I hope to combine dentistry, service, and mentorship to make an impact both inside and outside the operatory."

Why did you choose to join different student organizations?

"I joined these organizations because each connects to a different part of what I value in dentistry: culture, community, leadership, and service. Being part of the Hispanic Student Dental Association is especially meaningful to me because it gives me an opportunity to celebrate my culture while helping create a sense of community and belonging for others. As secretary, I enjoy helping keep our organization connected and organized while supporting events that bring students together and celebrate Hispanic culture in dentistry.

"As social media coordinator for the Association of Women Dentists, I enjoy using creativity to highlight our organization, events, and opportunities for connection. Through the Special Care Dentistry Association, I have the opportunity to learn more about caring for individuals with special healthcare needs and the importance of creating dental experiences where every patient feels safe, respected, and understood.

"I have also enjoyed supporting patients in the Advanced Care Clinic as a patient buddy, where I can provide encouragement and companionship during their appointments."

Why did you become a Student Ambassador, and what do you enjoy about serving in this role?

"I became a Student Ambassador because I wanted to help prospective students feel welcomed and represented at ATSU. As a Hispanic dental student, it is especially meaningful to me to provide representation within the school and show aspiring students from similar backgrounds that there is a place for them in dentistry. I have already had the opportunity to meet Hispanic aspiring dental students who have connected with me, asked about my journey, and shared how meaningful it is to see someone with a similar background in this position. Those interactions have been some of the most rewarding parts of being an ambassador because they remind me of the purpose I hoped to serve when I joined: helping future students see that they belong here, too."

What are some of your interests, hobbies, or achievements outside of ATSU?

"Outside of school, I really value self-care and maintaining a healthy balance between dental school and the things that bring me joy. I love cooking, traveling, spending quality time with family and friends, and exploring Arizona whenever I get the chance. I also enjoy finding new restaurants, places, and experiences around the state. Making intentional time for life outside of school helps me recharge, stay grounded, and return to dentistry with a fresh perspective."