For Baleigh Robertson (Class of 2026), dentistry offers the chance to build relationships, stay hands-on, and make a difference in communities like the one where she grew up. The fourth-year student from Parrish, Alabama, shares what led her to the University of Alabama at Birmingham and why serving rural patients is central to her heart.
Q: Tell us about your background and what got you interested in dentistry?
I’m from Parrish, Alabama which is a small town not far from here. I went to UAB for undergrad, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in biology.
I pursued dentistry because I knew I wanted a hands-on career, not one that would require me to be behind a desk all day. I’m passionate about how changing a smile can completely change how someone feels about themselves. Seeing a patient gain confidence, carry themselves differently, and feel empowered by their appearance is incredibly rewarding to me.
Q: Why did you choose UAB and what has been your favorite part of your experience?
I chose UAB School of Dentistry because of its strong academic foundation and emphasis on hands-on clinical experience. While first and second year are heavily focused on academics, the school also does a great job of getting us into the clinic early to assist and shadow procedures. This early exposure allows us to gain valuable experience and confidence before we begin treating our own patients during third year.
My favorite experience so far has been traveling to rural clinics and serving underserved communities. It’s incredibly meaningful to care for patients who truly need it and to know your work is making a difference.
Q: What UAB SOD student organizations have you been affiliated with?
In my first year, I joined Christian Medical Ministries of Alabama, which took us on a mission trip. I also joined a Bible study where I met many of my closest friends and built my support system early on.
I served as a student ambassador in my second and third years. I met prospective students, gave tours, participated in panels, and answered questions about dentistry and day-to-day life. It was exciting to meet prospective students and help them feel excited about dental school.
Q: Who has made an impact on your education?
Dr. Lakeman has had a huge impact on my dental education. He practices in a small town not far from where I grew up, which made learning from him very meaningful. Being alongside him in the clinic has truly been an honor. While he is very knowledgeable, he is also very humble, and you can see how quickly patients feel comfortable and trust him. I hope to carry many of his traits with me throughout my dental career.
Q: Is there a patient moment that stands out?
I had a patient come in who shared how self-conscious she was about her smile. She refused to show her teeth in public and explained how it had affected her daily life and limited her social interactions. I was able to provide her with a denture and it completely transformed her. Seeing her look at herself in the mirror afterward was a feeling unlike any other. She told me she finally felt confident enough to apply for jobs and that it truly changed her life.
Q: What is the most important thing you’ve learned?
The most important thing I’ve learned in dental school is that we’re not just there to treat teeth. Many patients come in with signs of underlying conditions that have gone undiagnosed. Because of that, it’s essential to look at the patient as a whole rather than focusing solely on their teeth.
Q: What advice would you give future students?
For future students, my advice is to always remain humble. Growing up, my parents would always say, “Never forget who you are and never forget where you came from.” Living by that daily is what keeps me grounded and grateful for everything God has allowed me to accomplish. If you approach every day with a positive attitude and you're able to try to learn from every situation then you can truly succeed and accomplish anything that you want.
Curious to hear more Student Voices? Visit our Student Excellence news feed for more Q&As with UAB dental students.