Alessandra Barretta: From Biology to a Future in Dentistry

For Alessandra Barretta ’26, a BS in Biology from Dyson College became the foundation for something bigger: a future in dentistry. At Pace, she built deep research experience under the mentorship of Professors Daniel Strahs and Jeanmaire Molina, contributing to projects on drug resistance, bacterial communities, and dental caries. Now preparing for the Dental Admission Test while working as an orthodontic assistant, Barretta is bringing together laboratory research, clinical experience, and a passion for patient care as she works toward becoming an orthodontist.

Alessandra Barretta ’26

BS in Biology

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Next step: Preparing for dental school while working as an orthodontic assistant and continuing dental research

What drew you to biology?
I chose to study biology to build a strong scientific foundation for dental school, but also to immerse myself in a field driven by innovation, discovery, and curiosity. At Pace, I found an environment where opportunities are truly yours for the taking, and throughout my academic journey, I achieved more than I ever imagined possible.

How did Dyson help prepare you for what’s next?
Faculty-mentored research played a major role in my experience. I published research on drug resistance mechanisms in Saccharomyces cerevisiae under the mentorship of Professor Daniel Strahs, and later joined Professor Jeanmaire Molina’s laboratory, where we investigated bacterial community composition within Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. I am now continuing research with Professor Molina on what may be Pace’s first dental research project, focused on bacterial communities associated with the development of dental caries.

What are your post-graduation plans?
I am preparing for the Dental Admission Test and plan to attend dental school with the goal of becoming an orthodontist. While studying, I am working as an orthodontic assistant, expanding my clinical knowledge and passion for patient care. I also remain actively involved in dental research and hope to see our work published by the end of the year.