Growing in community | Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Emily Vu, BSDH ’24, is passionate about dental hygiene and excited to graduate and make a difference in the oral health field. She’s also a proud Asian-American student. In honor of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we spoke with Vu about her decision to pursue dental hygiene and what it means to her to be an Asian-American student and clinician. 

Tell us about yourself, and why you chose dental hygiene. 

My name is Emily Vu and I am in my final year of dental hygiene school! In the past, in high school, I experienced two jobs in the dental field that allowed me to explore different fields of dentistry which ultimately led me to dental hygiene. I have been a dental lab technician and an unlicensed dental assistant that both solidified the idea that this was something I wanted to go forward with.

Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?

The University of Minnesota was one of the few dental schools that had a dental hygiene program connected with an accredited dental school. I felt like it was valuable to work alongside other dental professionals. The Outreach program was another factor that drew me to the U of M, because it sounded like a unique experience to work in underserved communities.

What does it mean to you to be representing the school as an Asian-American student?

As an Asian-American student, it is important to me to represent the school as it allows me to contribute and build an inclusive dental community. This identity is professionally important to me because I am able to see the Asian-American community grow within the dental community and specifically the dental hygiene community. I am excited to see the representation grow in the future as this is just the beginning.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

As I come near to graduation, I hope to continue my passion for dental hygiene and build my relationships with my patients, dental faculty and friends. I hope to have a positive impact on the dental hygiene community and push the importance of dental hygiene and oral health care. I am excited to see the future of dental hygiene and where research will take us.

What do you want people to know about dental hygiene? 

I would like people to know that dental hygiene is one of the most fun, rewarding careers. I have had so much fun in this program and have built so many valuable relationships that I hope to bring with me throughout my lifelong journey in my career. And lastly, I hope everyone brushes and flosses their teeth!