Everyone in college has to make a life changing decision: What will I major in? For some, it is hard to choose. For others, like Luke Ellickson, it was easy.

From a young age, Ellickson, a biology major at Missouri State, has been interested in dentistry. A highly competitive field, he knew he had to stand out.

Part of the requirements for dental school admission is volunteering. After joining the pre-dental society at MSU, he found the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, better known as the Tooth Truck.

Volunteering with the Tooth Truck

Ellickson was awarded the Kevin D. Wallace Award for his work with the Tooth Truck. This award goes to someone who goes above and beyond for clients.

“Luke always manages to connect to patients of every age on a personal level,” said Emma Davis, Tooth Truck office manager. “He can talk to a five-year-old kindergartener about what they are going to eat for dinner that night.”

“He can also connect with the most difficult of our older patients who are more prone to silence,” Davis added.

Ellickson has learned a lot from the Tooth Truck. He plans to take that knowledge with him.

“Luke talks about his work with the Tooth Truck and how he wants to continue to involve those same principles in his future practice,” said Angela Plank, laboratory supervisor.

Though he gives his time to the Tooth Truck, the Tooth Truck gives back.

“I find it extremely rewarding to see the change in a patient’s attitude and confidence following a dental procedure,” Ellickson said. “Having the opportunity to see the dramatic improvement in a child’s self-image after an important dental procedure is incredible.”

Past Missouri State

In addition to his volunteer work, Ellickson applied for the reserved admissions program at the University of Missouri — Kansas City (UMKC) School of Dentistry. This program allows exceptional sophomore students to apply to the program.

They are accepted into the program during their junior year — a year earlier — than the traditional application process.

“MSU has provided me a strong foundation for success in dental school, as well as fostering problem-solving skills that will be valuable not only in my eventual dental practice but also in everyday life,” Ellickson said.