Class of 2026 Spotlights
With graduation around the corner, meet some of our soon-to-be graduates representing different programs at the school.
Griffin Privitera, traditional DMD
Why did you want to study dentistry?
I was drawn to dentistry because it allows me to combine hands-on clinical work with meaningful patient interaction. I value being able to improve someone’s health and confidence while building trust over time, and I enjoy working in a field where I can make a tangible, lasting impact on my patients’ lives.
What were the highlights of your time at RSDM? What will you miss the most?
My time at RSDM was highlighted by clinical experiences and the relationships I built with patients, classmates, and faculty. Working with a diverse patient population challenged me to think critically and adapt my approach to provide the best care possible. I will miss the strong sense of community the most, as well as the daily opportunity to make a direct impact on my patients’ lives.
What are some takeaways from your RSDM journey that you'd like to share with current or prospective students considering your program?
One of my biggest takeaways from RSDM is the importance of adaptability and maintaining a patient-centered approach. Every patient and situation is different, and being able to think critically and adjust your approach is key to providing effective care. I would also emphasize taking full advantage of the clinical opportunities and learning from both successes and challenges. Lastly, building strong relationships with your classmates and faculty makes the experience more rewarding and creates a support system that carries you through the program.
What are your next steps? Future aspirations?
I’m grateful for my experience at RSDM. It has reinforced my passion for dentistry and prepared me well for the next step in my training. I’m excited to continue learning and to carry these experiences forward. My next step is to begin my pediatric dental residency here at RSDM. Long-term, I aspire to practice in a setting that allows me to serve a diverse community while building strong relationships with my patients and their families.
Fabiola Cuba Valencia, Pediatric Dentistry Resident
Why did you want to study dentistry?
I grew up around dentistry because my mom is a dentist, and I used to play “dentist” with my sister, which inspired me to follow the same path. Even after becoming a pediatric dentist in Peru, I moved to the U.S. and repeated my training—DMD and pediatric residency—because I truly love this profession.
What were the highlights of your time at RSDM? What will you miss the most?
Believe it or not, I’m going to miss the stress before exams—those moments when you’re sure you studied everything, and somehow the faculty still finds that one question you’ve never seen in your life. I’ll also miss walking through the Rutgers hallways and, of course, my sunrise milkshake from the cafeteria that helped me stay awake to keep studying. I truly value the mentorship from Dr. Madhu Mohan and Dr. Mary Beth Giacona, and the support from my co-residents. We really became like a family, and that made the whole experience very special.
What are some takeaways from your RSDM journey that you'd like to share with current or prospective students considering your program?
One of the biggest things I learned at RSDM is that nothing is impossible if you learn how to manage your time. I say this from my own experience as a mom of two—one of my daughters has been with me since day one of residency, even from pregnancy. This program is demanding, but it’s also an amazing opportunity to grow. My advice: trust yourself, stay focused, and remember why you started. Also, don’t be too hard on yourself.
What are your next steps? Future aspirations?
I just want to say thank you to Rutgers for trusting me and giving me the opportunity to achieve my dream of becoming a pediatric dentist in the U.S. I’ll always carry this experience with me. My next step is to work at a health center as a pediatric dentist. I was fortunate to receive the NHSC scholarship, so I’m really committed to serving underserved communities. I’d also like to keep doing dental missions—my most recent one was in the Dominican Republic—and continue volunteering to help children who really need it. Overall, I want a career where I can serve, teach, and make a real difference.
Ali Farhat, Prosthodontics Resident
Why did you want to study dentistry?
I chose prosthodontics because I want to be able to handle any scenario, especially complex cases that require comprehensive planning and execution. I didn’t want to be limited in what I could treat or have to refer difficult cases out. I value having the knowledge and skill set to manage both the functional and esthetic aspects of dentistry at the highest level.
What were the highlights of your time at RSDM? What will you miss the most?
During my time at Rutgers PG Prosthodontics, I managed a high volume of complex restorative cases while developing a strong foundation in comprehensive treatment planning. I also took initiative in advancing digital workflows and supporting interdisciplinary collaboration, which strengthened both my clinical efficiency and leadership skills.
What are some takeaways from your RSDM journey that you'd like to share with current or prospective students considering your program?
One of my main takeaways is seeing the program move in a new direction under evolving leadership. There is strong potential to grow into one of the leading prosthodontics programs in the country. Being part of that process helped me develop adaptability and a forward-thinking mindset.
What are your next steps? Future aspirations?
I’ll be going to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for my fellowship in maxillofacial prosthetics.
Shemar Rhoden, traditional DMD
Why did you want to study dentistry?
I didn’t grow up thinking dentistry was within reach. As a kid in Jamaica, I saw firsthand how difficult it was for people in my community to access care, and how rarely we saw providers who looked like us. I wanted to be part of changing the narrative for communities like mine, where access is limited, and trust in healthcare is often fragile.
What were the highlights of your time at RSDM? What will you miss the most?
One of the most meaningful highlights has been the opportunity to grow not only as a clinician, but also as an advocate and leader. Through hands-on patient care, I discovered a deep appreciation for restorative dentistry, helping patients regain function, confidence, and dignity through everyday procedures. Serving as president of the Student National Dental Association allowed me to mentor and inspire students from underrepresented backgrounds, while my involvement in community-based programs and international mission trips to places like the Dominican Republic reinforced my commitment to serving underserved populations. What I will miss most, however, are the relationships that made this journey so meaningful.
What are some takeaways from your RSDM journey that you'd like to share with current or prospective students considering your program?
Dental school is about far more than developing technical skills; it is about becoming a well-rounded, compassionate provider. I would encourage students to take full advantage of every opportunity available. Get involved early, whether that is through student organizations, outreach programs, research, or leadership roles. Another key takeaway is to remain open-minded. Dental school exposes you to so many different paths, and being willing to explore them allows you to discover where you can make the greatest impact.
What are your next steps? Future aspirations?
My next step is to complete a one-year general practice residency at Kings County Hospital. I am especially excited to manage more complex cases in a hospital-based setting, work alongside interdisciplinary teams, and further develop my ability to provide comprehensive care to diverse and underserved patient populations.
I'd like to end with a quote: "Most people have sights, but not everyone has vision." This highlights the difference between simply observing reality and having the insight to imagine possibilities beyond it.
Julia Mitchell, traditional DMD
Why did you want to study dentistry?
I chose to study dentistry after the profound influence that my pediatric dentist and orthodontist had on my life. I was drawn to the idea of being able to improve someone’s health, confidence, and quality of life while working in a field that combines science and art. Although the basic anatomy of everyone’s orofacial structure is similar, I love the distinctive details of each individual’s smile and the different stories that they tell.
What were the highlights of your time at RSDM? What will you miss the most?
One of the biggest highlights of my time at RSDM has been the friendships I’ve made. My classmates are not only my friends but also my future colleagues, which makes those relationships even more special. I will especially miss the small everyday moments, like eating lunch together between clinic sessions, supporting each other through difficult exams and cases, and celebrating each other’s successes.
What are some takeaways from your RSDM journey that you’d like to share with current or prospective students?
I still remember the first day of D1, and now graduation is already here. The days can feel long while you're in it, but looking back, the experience goes by in the blink of an eye. My advice would be to appreciate the process, trust yourself, and make the most of the relationships and learning opportunities because they become some of the most meaningful parts of the journey. I am grateful for the strong didactic and clinical education I have received at Rutgers. Over the past four years, I have formed meaningful relationships with my peers, faculty, and patients. One important lesson I learned is to trust yourself and your clinical judgment, while also not being afraid to ask for help. Your classmates and faculty are there to support you. Collaboration is a big part of success in dental school. You may surprise
yourself with how much you know and how much you grow, but it is equally important to always remain humble and open to learning.
What are your next steps? Future aspirations?
I will be completing an AEGD residency with the United States Navy at Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, CA. I am eager to continue learning from mentors and collaborating closely with peers.
Kiran Changa, Periodontics resident
Why did you want to study dentistry?
I was drawn to dentistry because it uniquely combines science, precision, and hands-on care in a way that allows me to make a direct and lasting impact on patients. Throughout my training, I found that I was most fulfilled when I could diagnose complex problems and then actively take part in their solution.
What were the highlights of your time at RSDM? What will you miss the most?
One of the greatest highlights has been the depth and intensity of the clinical experience—managing complex cases, performing advanced surgical procedures, and seeing cases through from diagnosis to completion. Serving as chief resident was also a significant milestone, as it allowed me to develop leadership skills, coordinate a large and dynamic program, and advocate for my co-residents while working closely with faculty. I also valued the interdisciplinary collaboration with my colleagues, which reinforced the importance of comprehensive, patient-centered care. What I will miss most are the people and the environment. The daily interactions with co-residents, faculty, and staff created a strong sense of community and support that made even the most challenging days rewarding.
What are some takeaways from your RSDM journey that you'd like to share with current or prospective students considering your program?
One of the biggest takeaways from my time at RSDM is that growth comes from fully embracing the clinical experience, even when it feels challenging or uncomfortable. I also learned the importance of being proactive—seeking out cases, asking questions, and taking ownership of your education makes a significant difference in what you gain from the program. Equally important is valuing collaboration and mentorship. Finally, I would emphasize maintaining a mindset of continuous improvement. Be open to feedback, be willing to critically evaluate your own work, and stay committed to refining both your clinical skills and your understanding of the literature. RSDM will prepare you extremely well for whatever path you choose next.
What are your next steps? Future aspirations?
I am incredibly grateful for my time at RSDM and for the mentors, co-residents, and patients who have shaped my journey. My next step is transitioning into private practice in the Pittsburgh area. In the long term, I aspire to integrate clinical practice, academics, and research.
