This kid sees the College of Dentistry in her future

A 12-year-old aspiring dental pro recently wrote a letter to College of Dentistry Dean Carroll Ann Trotman. Here’s her letter—and the response.

Dear Carroll Ann Trotman:

My name is Harper, and I’m a middle school student in Austintown, Ohio. I’m 12 years old, and I’m in 7th grade. I want to be a dentist for Ohio State College of Dentistry.

I have always wanted to be a dentist. When I was younger my mom bought me a pretend dentist toy set, and I would play with it every day. I enjoy going to the orthodontist because I love the colors and the staff. In the future, if I get into Ohio State’s dental school, I would love to work with kids.

I think becoming a dentist is a great career because it will give me the ability to help other people as well as make a good living. I have also always wanted to own my own business and be my own boss! It doesn’t hurt that I am a huge Ohio State Buckeyes fan. I do have a few questions. First, what should I focus on to be considered for dental school? Second, what are the best classes to take or clubs to join to make me successful?

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.

Sincerely,

Harper

Dean Trotman’s response:

Dear Harper,

I was delighted to receive your letter. I am impressed that you already know you want to be a dentist and you know about our college! Wow! I noted that you enjoy visiting the orthodontist. I am an orthodontist also, and I love working with kids. Like you, I am also a huge—huge—Ohio State Buckeyes fan! I can tell from your letter that you have great passion and determination. Please do not lose these attributes; I know someday you will have your own practice, and then you can put bright colors into your space and staff it with the friendliest faces!

Harper, your goal of becoming a dentist is absolutely within reach. If you join us one day, you will discover that serving as a dental professional is both a privilege and a responsibility. Imagine the first time you help a child smile with confidence—that’s the kind of impact you’ll make as a dentist.

To get ready, I encourage you to focus on math and science classes. Consider hobbies that improve your hand skills—such as drawing or playing a musical instrument. I also encourage you to talk to your orthodontist and ask to shadow them to see the work they do firsthand.

As a college, our mission is to prepare students like you for the future they dream of—and to ensure you are truly future ready for all that lies ahead. To do our part, we are changing, growing and preparing for the future too. Just as Ohio State continues to accelerate its excellence as a university, the College of Dentistry is advancing our programs to give students the strongest foundation possible.

So keep dreaming big, Harper. The future of dentistry—and the future of Ohio—rests in the hands of young dreamers like you. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you!