From the soccer field to the dental chair
Emily Gross, BSDH ’27, MDT ’28, brings the heart of a champion to everything she does. A former Division III college athlete, committed volunteer and soon-to-be dental therapist, Gross brings focus, dedication and lots of energy to her upcoming journey at the University.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry at the University of Dubuque in Iowa. She also played four seasons on the Spartans, the school’s women’s soccer team, which competes in the American Rivers Conference. That athletic experience offered more than competition and a great workout, since it also provided experience in how to learn, lead and give back. “Our coach emphasized that education came first and that soccer was our outlet. We also volunteered in the community, working with youth soccer leagues, which I loved.”
After graduation, she continued to coach, volunteering with her hometown high school women’s team. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to mentor younger athletes and stay involved in a sport that’s shaped so much of who I am.”
It’s no surprise that her high-octane, max-energy lifestyle includes even more momentum, this time in half-marathons. She’s run the Eau Claire and Disneyland half marathons, and is signed up for the Twin Cities in Motion 10K this fall. “I’d love to find other students who run,” she added. “It’s a great way to stay balanced and connected outside the clinic and classroom.”
But even while staying active, Gross has remained interested in dentistry. She volunteered as a dental assistant at the Chippewa Valley Free Clinic, an experience that deepened her understanding of the disparities in access to oral care. That firsthand exposure ignited her interest in dental therapy as a way to combine clinical care with a dedication to service.
“The dental therapy program at the University stood out to me immediately,” she explained. “The curriculum is rigorous, the class sizes are small, and the program is having a real impact in underserved communities. I knew it was the right fit.”
Gross’s resume includes roles as research fellow, peer tutor, student ambassador and youth soccer coach. And though she’s just beginning her time at the University, she’s already looking forward to getting involved again. “Volunteering is a core value of mine. I hope to find time to stay engaged, whether it’s through campus organizations, local clinics or community events. These opportunities open doors and help build networks you might not expect.”
As she begins this next chapter of her academic life, Gross is clear about what she’s hoping to accomplish: “I’m really looking forward to starting my career and making an impact in communities that need better access to dental care. That’s always been the goal.” And, as she sets off on this journey of learning and skill-building, she’s keeping her eyes on the (figurative) ball: “I want to be the best clinician I can be, to serve others with empathy and skill, and to continue learning and growing throughout my time here.”