Riya Patel
Riya Patel is a student at the University of Pennsylvania, where she is pursuing a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the School of Dental Medicine. She graduated from Villanova University in May 2023, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Patel’s interest in public health stemmed from a visit to a dental clinic for those experiencing homelessness. At this clinic, she became interested in learning more about health disparities and methods to enhance community health. As she pursues her DMD at Penn, Patel enjoyed participating in the SUMR program, as she deepened her understanding of the current framework of health care policy to improve health equity in the future as a healthcare provider.
During SUMR, Patel worked with Dr. Emily Vail on a research project that focused on the occupational challenges that female anesthesiologists face during pregnancy and the peripartum period.
At her dental school, Patel is involved in Philly Phaces, Penn Dental Women’s Network, and the Indian Student Dental Association. In her free time, she enjoys trying new restaurants, traveling, and hiking.