GDA Action April May 2020

46 • April/May 2020 What is the single most important thing, in your opinion, GDA can do to helpmembers? Healthcare in the United States is poised to potentially undergo radical changes in the coming years. The GDA is positioned to advocate for the interests of dentists and patients alike. What advice would you give to an aspiring dental student? Practice everything with intention, and know that there is life after dental school. What did you want to be when you were growing up? Playing basketball professionally was a childhood dream of mine; I grew up idolizing NBA greats of the 90s like Shaq. Unfortunately, there was limited demand in the NBA for a 6'2" center and no amount of watching “Space Jam” could give me the handles of Muggsy Bogues, so I had to settle on becoming a dentist instead. GDAMEMBERVALUE This column highlights GDA members talking about their path to dentistry and the value they find in GDA membership. The month we hear from Northwestern District members Dr. Henry Almquist, a general dentist who practices at Waldron and Lee Dentistry in Marietta and Dr. Sarah Boyles, a pediatric dentist at Rossitch Pediatric Dentistry in Marietta. Meet Dr. Henry Almquist What was your first job? I used to work in landscaping. Working outside all day was good exercise and great way to perfect a year-round farmer's tan. When and how did you become a GDAmember? I joined the GDA when I was still in dental school. Our class as a whole placed a high value on participating and supporting organized dentistry. Our faculty helped to foster and reinforce those values throughout all four years of school. Meet Dr. Sarah Boyles When and how did you become a GDAmember? I became a member of the GDA in 2013 when I was in dental school at The Dental College of Georgia. The GDA always had a big presence while I was a student there, keeping us well-informed and encouraging our involvement in ASDA, the ADA, and the GDA. Why is being part of a professional group important? There aren’t many professions out there that have the level of professional support and advocacy that we do as dentists. Being a part of a group like the GDA not only gives you a voice, but it keeps you well- informed on changes within the profession, provides you with numerous resources needed for practice, allows you to network and connect with other dentists in the area, and simply provides you with a sense of security about the future of your career.