From Grace Place to Future Orthodontist
Rebecca’s story is one of determination, hard work, and a deep commitment to giving back to her community. Born to Haitian parents who emigrated to the U.S. in search of a better life, she found her passion for dentistry in middle school after undergoing orthodontic treatment. This experience sparked a lifelong dream of providing quality dental care, and her journey from Grace Place to dental school has been nothing short of inspiring.
Rebecca joined the high school program at Grace Place in 2014, where she became a standout participant. Known for her reliability and care for others, she also volunteered in the elementary and middle school programs for several years, sharing her time and talents while balancing her own academic pursuits.
Grace Place was instrumental in helping Rebecca achieve her goals. Through the program’s extensive resources, she gained access to college visits, professional networking events, and mentorship opportunities that gave her valuable insight into career paths. Rebecca was guided through the college application process, receiving support on everything from essay writing to finding and applying for scholarships. These experiences were pivotal in shaping her future, allowing her to pursue higher education with confidence. Grace Place’s holistic approach to education also helped Rebecca develop essential leadership skills, which she put to use in school clubs, volunteer efforts, and community service.
Her dedication paid off when she graduated from Lorenzo Walker Technical High School in 2019, not only with her diploma but also with an associate’s degree from Florida SouthWestern State College and two dental assisting degrees. Balancing her studies with 20-hour workweeks and community leadership, she maintained an impressive 6.0 GPA, showcasing the work ethic and resilience she cultivated during her time at Grace Place.
Her journey continued at Florida Gulf Coast University, where she earned a biology degree in December 2021. During this time, Rebecca remained committed to serving others by volunteering at her church and assisting at the Neighborhood Health Clinic, providing dental care to low-income and uninsured individuals in the community.
In 2022, Rebecca returned to Grace Place to deliver an empowering scholarship award speech, inspiring other students, including her sister, to pursue their dreams. Today, she is a second-year dental student at Lincoln Memorial University-College of Dental Medicine in Knoxville, Tennessee. She continues to exemplify her commitment to community service through her volunteer work with Remote Area Medical, providing free dental, vision, and medical services to underserved populations.
Rebecca’s passion for helping others extends beyond the clinic. She founded “My Tooth Be Told,” a platform aimed at mentoring underrepresented students pursuing careers in dentistry. She is also developing a mentorship program to assist aspiring dental students with applications, essays, and interviews.
Looking to the future, Rebecca plans to pursue an orthodontic residency in Florida after graduating in 2027. Her ultimate goal is to bring affordable, high-quality dental care to underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to the treatment they deserve. The support and opportunities she found at Grace Place played a significant role in shaping her path, and her success serves as a shining example of the transformative power of education and community.
Reflecting on her journey at Grace Place, Rebecca says “Please know that your contributions were not taken for granted and are completely changing the trajectory of the lives of low-income families and students, like myself.” As we enter the holiday season, please consider making a gift to support incredible students like Rebecca.
Education changes everything.
