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Four ����̽�� biology and chemistry students, driven by ambition, are working hard to gain experience and define what comes next on their path to dentistry. Supported by Keene State’s professional advisory network, they are highly committed to making a difference—one smile at a time.

����̽�� offers more than 40 areas of undergraduate study, giving students the flexibility to tailor their education to meet their long-term goals. Through dedicated professional advisories, students interested in advanced degrees—including dentistry, engineering, law, medicine, pharmacology, and veterinary science—receive guidance on coursework, experiential learning, and graduate or professional school preparation.

Senior Averie Silvia and sophomores Sophia Kerber, Eleni Papadopoulos, and Sheldom Vazquez are all part of the biology and chemistry programs, each preparing for the next step toward their shared dream of dental school.

Building Experience in the Research Lab

Professor of Chemistry Brian Anderson notes that, beyond being strong students, these individuals benefit from paid lab work—an experience that strengthens applications for graduate and professional programs.

Keene State offers students the opportunity to gain lab experience as early as their first year, an advantage strongly emphasized through faculty mentoring and professional advising. When asked about their work in the science labs, students are eager to share.

Sheldom explains,

“The professors here are willing to help you and guide you through whatever science courses you need for dental school, and the research lab opportunities here make you stand out. Dental schools really look for how you differentiate yourself from the person next to you.”

The STEPS (STEM Transformational Experiences to Promote Success) program further supports biology and chemistry students by providing financial, academic, and career guidance. Through programs like STEPS and one-on-one advising, students graduate with the experience and skills needed to succeed in competitive professional programs.

Preparing for Dental School—and Beyond

For Averie, her path has already taken a major step forward with her acceptance into a dental program at the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine—an outcome supported by faculty mentorship and professional advising.

“I shadowed at my dentist in Maine, and they were super helpful. I completed 180 shadowing hours to get into dental school,” Averie says. “The minimum is 40 hours, which isn’t competitive at all. You really need at least 100 hours to be seriously considered.”

Personal Paths to Dentistry

Eleni recently joined the STEPS program and, through its support, began conducting research with Dr. Anderson. She feels the combination of hands-on experience and advising prepares STEM students like herself for careers in science and healthcare.

Across their different journeys, these students share a common motivation: making a meaningful impact on patients’ lives.

“I kind of always knew I wanted to do dentistry,” Averie says. “In high school, I interviewed dentists for a career project, and it stemmed from having a really good relationship with my dentist when I was younger.”

Sophie added,

“When I first started here, I originally picked biology because I knew I wanted to go into the health field. I later focused on dentistry because it offers balance. It is still very challenging.”

Looking Ahead

Averie accepted the offer at University of New England. Sophia, Eleni, and Sheldom will continue their studies at Keene State, gaining research experience, shadowing hours at dentist's offices and preparing for the Dental Admissions Test, with ongoing guidance from faculty and professional advisors.

For Averie, the calling to dentistry also comes from a deeply personal connection, whose simple yet powerful string of words resonated with her and left her with inspiration.

“My babysitter passed away and… she always said, #justsmile,” Averie shares. “Through her, I realized how much a smile could change someone's life.”

As these students move closer to their futures—whether in dentistry or other advanced professional fields—they remain united by their passion and supported by ����̽��’s commitment to professional advising, experiential learning, and student success.

To learn more about ����̽��’s undergraduate science programs and professional advising pathways, visit: /academics