A World of Opportunities
Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
You’ll find a world of opportunities as a member of the Dugoni School family. Through clinical experiences, research, community service and leadership opportunities, you’ll grow both as a person and as a professional. You’ll learn more about the important connections between oral health and overall health, and study with leading experts in the field at our state-of-the-art campus in San Francisco.
FRONT COVER PHOTO
Ryan Zarrabian
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2025
Hometown: San Jose, CA
Your journey starts here
San Francisco: Innovation and Opportunity
Imagine launching your dental career in a city renowned for its innovation and progressive spirit. Located near Silicon Valley's cutting-edge tech firms and home to strong research universities, San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for aspiring dental professionals. A diverse patient population provides invaluable hands-on experience in line with The City’s commitment to health and wellness. A vibrant culture creates the perfect backdrop for professional development and a fulfilling personal life. San Francisco presents a wealth of opportunities to learn, grow, and make a real difference.
1
San Francisco City Hall
Affectionately known as the “People’s Palace”, City Hall is the seat of government for the City and County of San Francisco
2
The Golden Gate Bridge Famous for its iconic International Orange color, and at one time the longest suspension bridge ever built in the world
3 Getting Around Town
From scooters, to self-driving taxis, to vintage street cars, San Francisco travels in style
4 Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and largest Chinatown outside of Asia, and a 10-minute walk from the SF campus
The College of Physicians and Surgeons (P&S) is founded in San Francisco, and takes up residency at 818 Howard Street, between Fourth and Fifth Streets.
5
The Palace of Fine Arts
Originally built for the 1915 Panama–Pacific International Exposition, it serves as the venue of our school's White Coat Ceremony
6
Oracle Park
Home to the San Francisco Giants baseball team, its right-field wall is 24 feet high as a tribute to Willie Mays, who wore that jersey number
7
Redwood Forests
A short drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods is home to some of the tallest living trees on Earth at over 250 feet tall
The City of Seven Hills
Seven iconic hills make up the city's landscape: Telegraph Hill, Nob Hill, Russian Hill, Rincon Hill, Twin Peaks, Mount Davidson and Mount Sutro
The College eliminates its medical and pharmacy schools, and chooses to focus on dentistry.
The school converts to a four-quarter, year-round, three-year program with new classes entering in July instead of September to supply the American military with the dentists needed to fight in WWII.
The College of Physicians and Surgeons becomes a part of University of the Pacific and is renamed the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry.
Ground is broken for the dental school's new building at 2155 Webster Street in San Francisco's Pacific Heights neighborhood. The school then moves into the building in 1967.
School
Dugoni instantly felt like home. The close-knit, humanistic culture and amazing San Francisco location make it such a special place. Everyone is so welcoming, and you can tell the school really cares about helping each student succeed and grow into the best doctor they can be.
Diya Madhok
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2028
Hometown: San Ramon, CA
“At Pacific, we grow people and along the way they become doctors.” — Dr. Arthur A. Dugoni
The Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry is committed to providing a world-class dental education for our students and comprehensive, affordable patient care for adults and children in a humanistic environment.
Our school is highly regarded for its:
– Humanistic model of education that respects the dignity of each individual and fosters limitless potential for growth;
– Accelerated year-round predoctoral program where students are able to complete four academic years of instruction in three calendar years; and
– Innovation in dental curriculum, including comprehensive patient care and competency-based education
Programs
( San Francisco )
Doctor of Dental Surgery | Accelerated three-year program
International Dental Studies
Dental Hygiene | Bachelor of Science
Graduate Orthodontics Residency
Advanced Education in Endodontics Residency
International General Dentist Educator Program | PhD/Endo
Anesthesiology Internship
Dental Sleep Medicine Fellowship
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Internship
Pre-Dentistry | Accelerated Pre-Dental Advantage Program (3+3)
*Applications to Pre-Dentistry programs are coordinated by University of the Pacific’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions for entry into the College of the Pacific
Programs ( Sacramento )
International Dental Studies
Dental Hygiene | Bachelor of Science
The Pacific Health Care Collaborative (PHCC) offers International Dental Studies (IDS) program students an unprecedented educational opportunity to learn and practice in the first-of-its-kind integrated dental and medical facility at a U.S. university.
As part of an intimate cohort of 30 students per class, students are exposed to a visionary approach in health education, with comprehensive, whole-person oral health care at the center of their learning experience.
This innovative 30,000-square-foot facility on Pacific's Sacramento Campus leverages state-of-the-art technology to deliver engaging didactic education through both online and in-person lectures, while positioning students at the forefront of advancing patient care through hands-on laboratory experiences and evidence-based clinical practice.
Students will become prepared to be leaders in the evolving landscape of integrated health services in the diverse Oak Park neighborhood and beyond through service opportunities and extramural rotations embedded into their curriculum.
Learning and Leading
Leadership, one of the Dugoni School’s core values, is a central theme of our programs and people. Opportunities abound to build leadership skills, get involved in the community and make an impact on the profession.
After my first year, I was inspired by my classmates and how dedicated they were to being the greatest dentists they could be for our future patients. I wanted to have a platform to push our class to reach their full potential as I saw ways to enhance the student experience, from working with instructors to modify academic courses to allocating funding for extracurricular activities and new school events. Our culture is what will ultimately define our class for years to come, and I wanted to be a part of fostering a welcoming environment that focused on camaraderie, respect, leadership, love and having fun.
Nick Salameh Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2025
Hometown: Houston, TX
To me, being at the Dugoni School ties into leadership. It’s easy to say you hold a position, but true leadership is shown through your actions and the values you demonstrate to others.
Adriana Mendoza
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2025
Hometown: Richmond, CA
A quote that deeply inspired me from the HDA conference was:
“La gente utiliza los filtros para cambiar fotos, pero no usan los valores para cambiar sus vidas.”
“People use filters to change photos, but they don’t use values to change their lives.” — El Principito
My Experience in Leadership
My leadership journey has been similar to learning how to drive for the first time: taking the wheel as club president was initially new territory, but navigating the responsibilities eventually began to feel natural. It is an honor to serve as a visible example for students who are first generation, commuters or women of color, proving that it is entirely possible to embrace leadership roles while still thriving academically.
My Experience at the Hispanic Dental Association Conference
Attending the Hispanic Dental Association conference was a powerful reminder of the representation that exists within our field. It felt like home to be surrounded by peers with shared experiences, and seeing the passion of other HSDA chapters has motivated me to keep our own chapter strong and active.
The camaraderie among classmates and the trust placed in students from day one have both surprised me during my first few weeks at the Dugoni School. As a student from the East Coast, I had anxieties about moving so far from home during a very challenging experience, and worried I would struggle to find a support system. Moreover, I feared that the competitiveness of the application process would spill over and lead to students being cold or cutthroat. I have found the opposite to be true: Students are incredibly gracious and are actively trying to help their classmates succeed. Not only do first-year students work together to make study guides and groups, but D2s and D3s are more than happy to lend advice and give insight into upcoming tests or lab work. This familial environment has made my transition to a new school and new city seamless.
I have also been surprised by the amount of trust placed in firstyear students. We have been given the tools to start applying concepts learned in lecture to the SimLab immediately. Professors encourage making progress over the pursuit of perfection, and you are treated as the doctor you will one day be from the start of school. These expectations have motivated me and reinforced the reasons I chose to pursue dentistry. Finally, I have been surprised by the number of faculty who are Dugoni School graduates. It is clear that the Dugoni family runs deep, and alumni want to continue to be involved with the school.
Noah Horton
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2028
Hometown: Newport, RI
Being at the Dugoni School has been such a rewarding experience. As an international dentist, I’ve really appreciated how welcoming and supportive the school community is right from the application process to interviews and to finally being part of the Dugoni School family. Dugoni is special because of its strong sense of community and the way everyone — faculty, staff and classmates — truly cares about each other’s success. The faculty are not only knowledgeable but also very approachable and encouraging, which makes a big difference. Even though academically strong, the focus is on building relationships and growing as a person while becoming a better dentist.
Dr. Ria Rao
International Dental Studies Class of 2026
Hometown: Johannesburg, South Africa
Student Life – Immerse Yourself in Opportunities to Connect and Grow
With more than 30 student clubs and organizations at the Dugoni School, there are always new experiences to enhance your life as a student here. Events include social gatherings and class retreats across the Bay Area, local and international community outreach, sports, cultural festivities, networking and other extracurricular activities organized by student affinity groups.
Whether you become a student officer, join a study club, conduct research, volunteer in the community, play on a basketball team or organize a talent show, you can gain valuable experience, make lifelong connections and have a richer experience while in dental school.
Clockwise: Diwali Celebration, Give Kids a Smile, Student Community Outreach for Public Education (SCOPE), Bridge Builders
I see my younger self in many of our students, and I strive to be the cheerleader I didn’t always have while navigating my own higher education experience. I’m committed to fostering an environment where every student—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—feels supported, uplifted and empowered to find their place in dentistry. It’s been an honor to be a part of their journey and witness their growth—not only in academics and competency, but in confidence and self-belief.
Melissa Yamanaka Director, Diversity and Student Engagement
Hometown: Hilo, HI
ARTHUR A. DUGONI SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY
Being a leader at the Dugoni School means helping to create a safe, inclusive and uplifting space where students, faculty and staff can grow together. I joined leadership to make dental school a little more fun and to give students moments of relief from the stressors of our journey. My goal has always been to foster an environment where everyone feels heard, seen and welcomed. I am grateful for the many opportunities Dugoni provides for students to get involved, support one another and lead with kindness.
Linda Chen
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2026
Hometown: Stockton, CA
Left to right: Charles Bui, Chris Aquino, Linda Chen, Adrien Stroumza, Brenden Weaver
My time at the Dugoni School has been truly transformative, shaping me both as a dentist and as a leader. Building on my prior leadership experiences, I was honored to be elected as the first class president of the IDS Sacramento cohort, a role that strengthened my resilience, adaptability and sense of responsibility. With the support of the Dugoni School family, I spearheaded initiatives such as launching an app to help my fellow dental students manage their studies and time, and community-focused social media outreach to enhance clinical learning while expanding access to care for the community. These experiences not only sharpened my organizational and communication skills but also deepened my commitment to service, innovation and collaboration. Above all, the relationships I have built with the administration, classmates and first-year students have shaped me into a leader who values empathy, kindness and a shared vision for the future growth of PHCC, the Dugoni School and dentistry.
Dr. Yajur Verma
International Dental Studies Class of 2026
Hometown: Ludhiana, Punjab, India
Left to right: Dr. Barbahra Reis, Dr. Dena Fouda, Dr. Yajur Verma, Dr. Shuang Han, Dr. Ashwin Meyyappan Sevugan
Top
Reasons Students Choose the Dugoni School
■ Three-year DDS program
■ Clinical excellence
■ Innovative curriculum
■ Supportive Dugoni School family environment
■ State-of-the art facilities
■ High quality of faculty, staff and administrators
■ Leadership opportunities
■ Research and innovation
■ Community involvement
■ Vibrant location Our Purpose is
As a first-generation college student and the first in my family to pursue dentistry, I came in with a lot of uncertainty. But from day one, I was welcomed, seen and supported. Multiple faculty members have gone out of their way to encourage me, remind me of my potential and cheer me on — even when I doubted myself. That kind of mentorship and kindness? That’s what the Dugoni School is all about.
Maddy Hayes
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2027
Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT
ARTHUR A. DUGONI
Faculty Dedicated to Student Success
The Pacific Dental Helix Curriculum is our unique model that integrates content across disciplines, emphasizing active learning and the development of critical thinking. Hallmarks of the Helix model are active classrooms, small-group case-based learning and prudent use of technology to extend learning beyond the traditional lecture hall. Our expert faculty bring decades of extensive, real-world experience in professional clinical practice. Our dental clinic teams provide students with exposure to modern, comprehensive patient care that they will encounter in private practice.
As a 2016 graduate, I sat in these same Sim Lab seats. I vividly remember the pressure of balancing coursework with refining hand skills. Now, as an instructor, I’ve learned that dental success is a progression. Seeing a student’s confidence grow is what changes lives for our patients and faculty. The Dugoni School legacy is about bringing out the best in everyone on our collective journey.
Dr. Steven Truman
Clinical Instructor, Preventative and Restorative Dentistry with Dylan Pham, Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2028
One of the things I enjoy most about my role is interacting with our terrific students. I learn something from them every day. Our school’s humanistic culture is reflected across our outstanding teaching and courses; compassionate patient care; and creative innovation and research to improve oral and overall health. The environment is warm, welcoming, kind and respectful, with a strong commitment to excellence and growth. I feel truly fortunate to be part of the Dugoni School family.
Dr. Rebecca Moazzez
Professor and Chair of the Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry with Elizabeth Werth and Kevin Shoumer, Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2028
ARTHUR A. DUGONI SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY
Alumni Connections
The Dugoni School’s network of alumni is one of the school’s strongest assets. Students benefit from this powerful alumni network through one-on-one mentorship, job opportunities, professional advice and other services provided by the Alumni Association and the Center for Success, both dedicated to connecting students and alumni.
I wanted to attend the Dugoni School even before I knew I wanted to be a dentist. When I met Dr. Craig Yarborough, he described the school as something beyond special—and he was right.
There is a distinct difference in the way Dugoni School graduates carry themselves and care for others. As Dr. Art Dugoni famously said, 'At Dugoni, we build people, and along the way they become doctors.' This school has shaped me not just as a clinician, but as a person. Here, clinical excellence grows hand-in-hand with empathy and integrity.
You walk through the doors of Dugoni as an individual dental student, but you leave as part of something much greater—the Dugoni family.
Dr. John Y. J. Kim
DDS Class of 2004
Elliott Bay Dental Seattle, WA
My
Chidinma Chigozie
Doctor of Dental Surgery Class of 2027
Hometown: Tri-Cities, WA