Marwa Raja
Biology Student Marwa Raja Chose UMKC for Its Dental School
Biology | School of Biological Sciences
Graduation Year: 2018
Where is UMKC taking you?
To be a dentist. I’ve always wanted to be a dentist. I love teeth. There’s just something about teeth. I had braces and I loved going to the orthodontist. She had free hot chocolate, Starbucks, Xbox, Wii. She was not your typical dentist.
Why did you choose UMKC?
The School of Dentistry at UMKC is one of the best in the nation. It has great connections and a great pre-dental society. I chose to stay close to family. Some people are afraid they won’t get a good college vibe staying close to home but that’s not been an issue here for me.
How has college inspired you?
I have made a lot of great friends. UMKC has many amazing professors and they have really helped motivate me to work harder. UMKC also has a lot of connections, which is very helpful.
Since entering college, what have you learned about yourself?
I am more outgoing than I thought I was.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received from a professor?
To always push myself and never stop believing in myself.
Who do you admire most at UMKC?
Dr. (James) Benevides (associate professor of Biology) — he is awesome! Literally my favorite professor, so kind and very intelligent. He inspires me to be the best I can be.
What’s your greatest fear?
Losing motivation.
What are your lifelong goals?
I want to own my own practice. I want to have a family, which is one of the reasons why I chose the life of a dentist: they have great hours and it’s something I’m passionate about.
What motto do you live by?
Always stay true to yourself. I’m different and it’s important to embrace yourself and be confident in who you are.
What excites you?
I love being spontaneous, not planning, just doing. Expect the unexpected.
