Class of 2011
School of Dentistry
Program/Major: Doctor of Dental Surgery
David A. Vela, DDS
What year did you graduate from UT Health San Antonio?
2011
What degree do you have?
Doctor of Dental Surgery
What is your specialty?
General Dentistry
What inspired you to become a dentist?
My father, more than anyone else, was my inspiration. He was a medical doctor and I grew up going to work with him and seeing him treat patients every day.
I knew I also wanted to be able to treat people and help them, but the patient interaction in dentistry was more suited to my desires.
What was your most rewarding experience at UT Health San Antonio?
The most rewarding experience at UT Health San Antonio were the friendships that I made.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
My greatest professional achievement has been building a dream practice with long-term team members and long-term patients.
What is your current occupation and where?
I am the owner dentist at All Smiles Dental Center in San Antonio, Texas.
What advice do you have for current students?
Stay in the fight and make it to the end!
Find a group of classmates that you can rely on to get each other through the hard times. Embrace the challenge, have fun and it is all worth it in the long run.