At Pound Ridge Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Smith provides a unique opportunity for aspiring dentists to gain hands-on experience as dental assistants while preparing their applications to dental school. This invaluable experience not only equips them with practical skills but also offers deep insight into the dental profession. Over the years, Dr. Smith has mentored numerous young women who have gone on to successfully apply to dental schools, thrive as dental students, and even establish careers as practicing dentists—all beginning their journey here at Pound Ridge Cosmetic Dentistry.
Dr. Katie Parr was our first gap year student in 2017. Katie had a desire to become a dentist since she was very young. Katie was an integral part of the practice during its first years and many patients still ask about Katie. Katie is a graduate of Manhattanville University as a biology major. After graduation from Boston University School of Dental Medicine she entered the Navy and is currently stationed in San Diego as a Lieutenant Officer on an aircraft carrier. She has been deployed to the middle east and is enjoying her time in the Navy and practicing dentistry. Katie’s positive attitude and love for life is infectious and she is missed.
I am currently a fourth-year dental student at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine. Smith. During that time, I gained hands-on experience assisting with patient care and was introduced to the essential skills of treatment planning and clinical communication.
Dr. Smith played a pivotal role in my journey to dental school. She guided me not only through the technical aspects of dentistry but also through the dental school application process. Her mentorship made those two years among the most helpful and informative of my professional development. That experience laid a strong foundation for my clinical education and solidified my passion for the field.
Now, as I complete my final year of dental school, I continue to build on the knowledge and mentorship that helped shape my path, with the goal of becoming a compassionate, skilled, and community-focused dental professional.
After graduation from Skidmore College Lexi Belifonte spent a year with us in 2024 before admission to High Point University School of Dental Medicine and Oral Health. Lexi brought so much to our office and was a wonderful assistant. She loved doing our TikTok videos and interacting with patients. Lexi’s happiness was infectious to all who knew her. She is doing terrific in dental school and is currently in her second year after a successful completion of her first year earning high honors for academic achievement.
Ginger Bernie was a part of our office in 2024 as an assistant. She was able to juggle playing Division 3 ice hockey at Manhattanville University, graduate undergraduate in three years as a Biochemistry major, and receive admission to Boston University School of Dental Medicine. We loved having Ginger as a part of the team and she always brightened our days. She loves living in Boston and sailed through her first year of dental school, she is now a second year student.
Amina Chase spent a year with us in 2025 before entering New York University dental school. She brought a calmness to the practice and her steady unwavering dedication to excellence. Amina also participated in dermatology research which was published in a medical text book. She is hard at work in her first year of dental school at the NYU College of Dentistry. We miss Amina greatly.
Jocelyn Smestad is our current gap year assistant of 2025. She graduated college from East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania and was awarded the Sigma Xi outstanding student of the year for Biology award. She played Division 2 lacrosse during college. Jocelyn has always been interested in dentistry and has an uncle who specializes in pediatric dentistry, which she is also interested in. She has applied to many dental schools and has an interview already. We will enjoy her team spirit and excitement as she is on this journey.
