Carlos Cardenas

UConn School of Dental Medicine

I was born in Cuenca, Ecuador, and migrated to the United States at the age of twelve. I have a bachelor’s degree in biology from Western Connecticut State University.

In 2016, searching for ways to help underserved populations, I volunteered as an interpreter and escort for the Connecticut Mission of Mercy free dental clinic. Upon my arrival at 5 am, I was shocked to see that there were hundreds of people outside the clinic. Though it was a cold Saturday morning in September, many people had started queuing the day before and had slept near the doors under one or two blankets. Some were there because they had no teeth and wanted to get dentures to help them eat, while others were there because they needed dental prophylaxis, or simply were suffering from a damaged tooth. I learned from many of the attendees that they lacked access to care or were uninsured.

I am compelled to become a health care provider by the feelings of joy and compassion associated with helping other people with their most serious problems. But, before I can best serve my community, I must become properly educated in both medicine and in cultural sensitivity, in both technical and interpersonal knowledge. This necessity makes the Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars Program is the perfect option for me: it will facilitate interaction with my future patients and provide me with a supportive environment in which I can continue my growth towards being a public servant.