Columbia Dental Students Put Service Into Practice in the Dominican Republic
From March 15–22, 2026, students and faculty from the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (CDM) participated in a collaborative international service experience in the Dominican Republic with World of SMILES, a nonprofit organization advancing comprehensive oral health care for underserved populations while building sustainable local collaborations. The weeklong trip offered Columbia students the opportunity to apply clinical skills in a global setting while engaging in meaningful service and cross-institutional collaboration.
Throughout the trip, third- and fourth-year Columbia dental students worked in clinical settings under the supervision of CDM faculty, delivering preventive and restorative care to patients with limited access to oral health services. The experience fostered collaboration and knowledge sharing while reinforcing a shared commitment to patient-centered care.
“From the first day to the last, every moment of the trip was meaningful. This experience has shaped me into a more competent and confident dentist and reinforced my desire to continue community-based care alongside my clinical career,” said Gursheen Kaur, a third-year dental student at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine.
For many students, the outreach was among the most transformative moments of their dental education, deepening both clinical confidence and a sense of purpose.
“I am grateful to have participated in the World of Smiles, one of the most defining moments of my journey at Columbia,” said Neha Bandi, Class of 2026, Advanced Standing Program. “Serving patients who needed care the most, alongside a compassionate team and dedicated one-on-one mentorship, was profoundly humbling. It strengthened my commitment to giving back to the community with a greater purpose while building confidence in delivering dental care independently.”
Beyond technical training, students reflected on the importance of adaptability, communication, and cultural awareness when delivering care in an unfamiliar environment. Many described learning not only from patients, but also from peers across institutions and from faculty mentors who worked closely with them throughout the week.
Faculty members emphasized that this immersive, hands-on approach lies at the heart of service-based dental education.
“While participating in the World of Smiles outreach in the Dominican Republic, I saw students working directly with children and families, addressing immediate needs while building real trust,” said Dr. Jaya Sarin Pradhan, Instructor in Clinical Dental Medicine. “You could see both the gratitude from the community and the students’ sense of purpose come to life. It was a powerful reminder that this kind of hands-on service is what shapes compassionate, purpose-driven clinicians.”
Several faculty members also reflected on the professional and personal impact of mentoring students outside the traditional academic setting, where shared daily experiences strengthened both learning and connection.
“It was truly a privilege and an honor to be part of the outreach to the Dominican Republic,” said Dr. Victor Bruzzi, Assistant Professor of Dental Medicine. “Working alongside such dedicated faculty, enthusiastic students, and grateful patients of all ages made the experience unforgettable. Contributing much needed dental care in the community was deeply meaningful, and I’m grateful to have been included in this important work.”
For others, the experience underscored the value of immersive mentorship and cultural exchange.
“It was a truly significant experience, sharing not only clinical practice but also daily life with students in a totally different environment,” said Dr. Francesca Ambrogio, Assistant Professor of Dental Medicine. “Definitely something I would recommend to everyone and will last forever as a precious moment of growth.”
Faculty also highlighted the broader and lasting impact of the outreach program for both the communities served and the students’ professional development.
“World of Smiles, under the leadership of Dr. James Hudson and Dr. Yakir Arteaga, created an amazing outreach program that gives the children of La Romana the opportunity to become caries-free, and our students the experience of working one to one with faculty, gaining confidence and becoming more productive,” said Dr. Vicky Evangelidis Sakellson, Professor of Dental Medicine. She also emphasized the importance of cultural understanding, noting that the Dominican community served abroad mirrors communities served closer to home. “It was a great opportunity for our students to better understand the Dominican culture, which we also serve in Washington Heights. I am grateful to Dean Mitchell and the World of Smiles team for enabling this visit and look forward to similar exchanges in the future.”
The trip reflects the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine’s ongoing commitment to service, education, and global engagement. For students and faculty alike, the experience served as a powerful reminder of the impact that collaborative, patient-focused care can have, both locally and around the world.