Madison Atwell | Health Sciences Commencement | West Virginia University

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Extensive hands-on curriculum ensures our students are confident and prepared to meet the public's oral healthcare needs.","tuitionLink":[],"widgets":"{\"fieldsets\":[]}","programSummary":"Our four-year curriculum leads to a B.S. in dental hygiene. The program is based in the liberal arts, but it is also a thoroughly professional program. Hygiene is a program of excellence at WVU.","applyNowButton":"[{\"name\":\"Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene\",\"udi\":\"umb://document/9192403f0a5a426b95e1a1192ca6a8df\"}]","mainContent":"<h2>Our Philosophy</h2>\r\n<p>Continual change in the social, economic, and educational structure of our society has led to an acute awareness of personal health needs. Foremost among these changes are a better informed and educated public, improved technology, and increased life expectancy. 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Immediately upon my guided tour of the university, I felt an overwhelming sense of community. I didn’t know it then, but Mountaineer pride was planted within me and will remain there forever. If I could go back, I would do it all again.

Hometown

Hopewell Junction, NY

Next move

I plan to embark on my next journey in the sunny state of Florida, working full-time in private practice.

Why did you choose to attend WVU?

I came to WVU in 2020 from 435 miles away, I didn’t know a single person. I was attracted to the close knit dental hygiene program, which stood up to its remarkable reputation. Immediately upon my guided tour of the university, I felt an overwhelming sense of community. I didn’t know it then, but Mountaineer pride was planted within me and will remain there forever. If I could go back, I would do it all again.

As a soon-to-be graduate, what is your best advice for incoming School of Dentistry students?

Dental hygiene is an intense major. Face your challenges with confidence, don’t be too hard on yourself, and most importantly, have fun along the way. Four years sounds long, but it goes so fast! If you listen to your instructors and put in the work, you will succeed. Nothing worth having comes easy, and dental hygiene is worth it.

What will you miss most about WVU?

What I will miss most about WVU is seeing the people everyday that I built incredible relationships with. Our friends are our treasures, and WVU blessed me with lots of them. Without their support, I wouldn’t be who or where I am today. I am so thankful and cannot wait to see the amazing things their futures will bring.