EIOH Resident Spotlight 鈥� Dr. Alexandra Makara
Dr. Alexandra Makara (Peds ’24), a native of Long Island, NY, plans to return home after graduation to work as a Clinical Assistant Professor.
Q: In what way did your Eastman experience allow you to grow?
A: The Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program at Eastman Institute is unlike any other in the state because of how busy it is. The extent and quality of training we receive as residents is unparalleled, and the patient pool we treat is so diverse. Throughout my two years here, I have encountered hundreds of children from all walks of life. Many of them face barriers to care that the average person takes for granted, including me. My biggest takeaway from Eastman is to stay open minded and care for each child as a whole. Every patient who enters the clinic presents with a unique story- and if you take the time to pay attention, you’ll learn something invaluable every time.
Q: Why did you choose Eastman?
A: Eastman stood out to me due to its incredible reputation. Many of the “founding fathers” of pediatric dentistry were Eastman--trained, and our attendings are all influenced by these individuals in some regard.
Q: Best memory of your EIOH residency?
A: Holiday Potlucks, “Shopey” Hours, and all the laughs shared in our resident room.
Q: Favorite part of Rochester?
A: The beautiful nature, friendly people, and close proximity to the Finger Lakes!
Q: Last time you were in awe?
A: Definitely during the solar eclipse when the world around us went dark for a couple of minutes. It was truly an incredible experience.
Q: Your biggest fear?
A: Dishonesty. I’d rather hear the most terrible truth than the smallest lie.
Q: Best advice you ever received?
A: Attract what you expect, reflect what you desire. Become what you respect, mirror what you admire.
Q: A person who has inspired you?
A: My mom has always been my best friend and greatest hero. I wouldn’t be who I am today without her influence.
Q: The one thing you can’t live without?
A: My family’s love and support. That, and a good cappuccino.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself?
A: I’m not the biggest morning person, but I wish I was!
Q: Other than dentist, what career would you choose?
A: Broadway actress- I love musical theatre and was heavily involved in acting throughout high school and college.
Q: If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
A: It’s a close call between teleporting and making things appear with the snap of a finger.
Q: If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: Peter Luger’s porterhouse steak and creamed spinach. Nobody does it better!