Charlene Victoria

Position Title: 

School-Based Dental Program Assistant

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Lancaster, CA until I lived in San Diego during my undergrad at UCSD.

Why did you decide to join NHC?

I joined NHC because this position really spoke to me. Having served a prior AmeriCorps term, I found the positions they offered were unique and (dare I say) more insightful than a regular job. Seeing the blend of dentistry and public health really caught my eye, as I majored in Global Health and am applying to dental school soon!

What are you hoping to gain or learn during your service term? 

I hope to learn more about the intersection between dentistry and public health, because they are two fields I rarely see together. Having shadowed dentists and done outreach as a community health worker (and loving both), it excites me knowing that these roles can work hand-in-hand to better serve the community while giving me a new perspective on oral care. I also hope to gain more public speaking experience and communication within the public health sphere, whether it be with different age groups, non-profits, businesses, or new geographical regions and its people.

What are you most looking forward to during your service term?

I am looking forward to meeting my cohort, forming connections with peers and the community, all while living in and exploring one of my dream cities!