Sergio Acevedo Cortes

UConn School of Dental Medicine

I was born in the municipality of Moca, a small rural town in the western region of Puerto Rico. I received a bachelor’s degree in biology with a concentration in biomedical sciences from the University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla campus in May 2020.

During my undergraduate career, I served as a member of my university’s Student Council. This membership allowed me not only to serve as a mediator between students and staff, but also to engage in outreach activities, most importantly during the aftermath of Hurricane Maria: The student council was able to set up a food distribution center for students and other members of the community affected by the hurricane. Such service opportunities brought home to me the importance of giving back to my community and helping those who require it most.

As an aspiring dental professional, I see the Urban Service Track/AHEC Scholars (UST/AS) Program as chance for me to combine community service with education during my graduate career, and to be at the front of movements helping individuals without access to adequate healthcare. The UST/AS Programs’ interdisciplinary approach will familiarize me with the many different health professions that I will go on to collaborate with and will further develop my interpersonal team skills, both critical components in providing optimal, holistic care to patients.