Biology Major Spends Summer Exploring Dental Profession

Growing up in Birmingham, Alabama, King Hayzen Turner understood early how access to healthcare can shape the well-being of an entire community. Those experiences ultimately guided him to Alabama A&M University, where he has found an environment that continues to strengthen both his academic preparation and leadership development.

A Biology major in the Pre-Professional Health (Pre-Dentistry) concentration, Turner chose Alabama A&M because he wanted the experience of becoming part of the Bulldog family. He credits the University's culture, traditions and supportive campus community with reinforcing his decision to pursue his professional goals.

"The University's motto, 'Start Here, Go Anywhere,' truly resonated with me because it reflects the idea that no matter where you come from, the opportunities and experiences you gain at AAMU can prepare you to succeed anywhere," Turner said.

This summer, he is representing AAMU as the University's only student selected for a six-week Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) at Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California, where he is participating on the dental track. The nationally recognized program provides intensive academic preparation, clinical exposure and networking opportunities for future healthcare professionals.

"My passion for dentistry stems from growing up in an underserved community where I witnessed firsthand the impact that limited access to quality oral healthcare can have on individuals and families," Turner said. "This experience has strengthened my commitment to becoming a dentist while allowing me to expand my clinical knowledge, connect with future healthcare professionals from across the country, and bring what I've learned back to my university and community."