Say “yes” to research: It can open doors for your career

Andy Alvarez ResearchBefore dental school, I had zero research experience. I majored in Molecular Biology and Microbiology, and later completed a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences. I never found the right opportunity to experience research in the real working world, a feat that ranked as a top priority on my ever-growing to do list. Luckily, after enrolling in the University of Florida College of Dentistry, I was introduced to an avenue that would get me involved with research more than I ever thought possible: the Summer Research Program. Some quick advice to any incoming D1 or any current dental student interested in research: TAKE THE PLUNGE! There are so many different types of research opportunities out there that are waiting just for you. Over the past year, I’ve realized that saying “yes” to research (and often figuring out the details later) continues to open doors for me that I never knew existed. In this innovative and exciting era of dentistry, dental research continues to serve as the foundation of our profession and getting involved at that ground level is much easier than you think!