Gloria Cho

Gloria Cho
North Carolina State University
Sophomore
Cary, NC

Gloria Cho is an undergraduate Biological Sciences major at North Carolina State University, where she is pursuing a concentration in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology with the long-term goal of becoming a dentist dedicated to global health equity. Born in Vancouver, Canada and raised in the United States since moving in the fourth grade, she brings a cross-cultural perspective that shapes both her academic journey and her commitment to service.

Her passion for dentistry was transformed through hands-on service. During a dental brigade in Panama, Gloria assisted in restoring a patient’s front teeth in a resource-limited classroom clinic—an experience that revealed how oral health can restore dignity, confidence, and quality of life. This moment solidified her commitment to dentistry not only as a clinical profession, but as a vehicle for service and social change.

Outside the classroom, Gloria remains deeply engaged in experiential learning through healthcare and community service. She has worked alongside dentists and healthcare professionals in international brigade settings, assisted in physical therapy clinics, and supported patients through hands-on volunteer care. These experiences have strengthened her ability to work with diverse populations, adapt to fast-paced environments, and serve with empathy and professionalism.

Her leadership is reflected in her role as Recruitment Chair for Dental Global Brigade, where she led outreach efforts that resulted in new volunteers for an upcoming international brigade. She also serves her community as a math tutor and Korean school teacher, combining academic mentorship with cultural and educational outreach.

Looking ahead, Gloria aspires to become a globally minded dentist who integrates clinical excellence with humanitarian outreach, advancing access to oral healthcare in underserved communities worldwide.