With an eye toward dentistry, Amaya Gonzales knows that leadership takes attention to detail, commitment, and the drive to make a positive difference in people's lives.
A biomedical sciences major on the pre-dental track at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, Gonzales is building a future in dentistry grounded not only in clinical skill, but in compassion and community impact. Slated to graduate in May 2028, her journey reflects a commitment to growth, discipline, and connecting with others in meaningful ways.
That commitment has already taken shape through hands-on service experiences. Gonzales participated in her university's Alternative Winter Break, a multi-day service-learning program where students travel to different communities to engage in direct service while learning about local humanitarian challenges. Her work, aligned with Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, reinforced a perspective she carries forward today: leadership begins by showing up for others.
Gonzales' recent achievements reflect her ability to manage a demanding academic path while staying actively involved in community initiatives.
"A recent achievement that I am proud of is continuing my progress and dedication as a biomedical sciences major on the pre-dental track while balancing challenging science courses, contributing to community service through volunteering, and leadership involvement," she says.
That balance has required more than ambition. It has called for consistency, focus, and a willingness to grow.
"These experiences have strengthened my time management, commitment, and discipline to pursue my career in dentistry," she says.
Through her involvement in service and leadership, Gonzales has also gained something equally important: perspective.
"Through these experiences, I have encountered and learned from diverse communities, which have inspired me to contribute to more than just providing oral care and treatment with my future practice."
Behind Gonzales' progress is a foundation of skills she continues to refine through both academic and real-world experiences.
"Some of the skills I used for this goal were communication, which is important for collaborating with a team, and I learned how to better serve and connect," she says.
She also credits discipline and time management as essential to her success.
"Discipline helped me stay focused in my academics during demanding semesters, and time management helped me stay organized and balance challenging science courses while staying involved in leadership roles and volunteering."
Perhaps most notably, these experiences have helped her grow beyond her comfort zone.
"These skills have helped me grow from my introverted self and are helping me academically and personally prepare for my future in dentistry."
When Gonzales thinks about leadership, she looks to those who lead with purpose and impact.
"I look up to many leaders like nonprofit CEOs I have met, because they have passion, dedication, and professionalism to help others," she says.
Their example has shaped how she approaches her own leadership journey.
"Leaders like this inspire me to lead as they do and make an impact as they do."
That mindset is reflected in her long-term goals, which extend beyond simply building a successful dental practice; it is about building a practice that serves everyone with respect.
"My long-term goal is to be an orthodontist. I want to build a strong foundation in my practice where everyone feels welcomed and not judged for the help they need," she says.
Her vision for the future includes both care and access, already with an eye toward helping the next generation of dental professionals.
"Through my career, I want to contribute to more than oral care and dental work, but to contribute with outreach efforts, and I want anyone who is interested in dentistry to be able to shadow and gain hands-on experiences."
Gonzales' leadership journey took an important turn when she became involved with the NSLS.
"The NSLS helped me in a way no one can understand," she says. "As a freshman, I struggled and felt like I was alone, but as I overcame the challenges. I was invited to the NSLS, and I saw it as a positive sign to keep going in my major."
Since then, she has stepped into leadership roles within her chapter, including serving on the E-Board as social chair and as a Success Networking Team (SNT) facilitator.
"After I got inducted, I applied to be on the E-Board," she says. "It's great being a part of a community that has the same passion for leadership and service, and has helped me grow and be able to be myself."
That sense of community continues to shape her next steps.
"My next goals are to continue being involved in my community and being a part of different experiences and learning about diverse cultures."
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For Gonzales, leadership is ultimately about growth.
"I would say even if you are introverted and shy, it doesn't make you a bad leader, just a growing leader."
That perspective reflects her own journey, one built through experience, service, and a willingness to step forward even when it feels uncomfortable.
She also carries with her advice that continues to guide her focus and discipline.
"A piece of advice that inspired me was from Dr. Vela, an orthodontist who emphasized the importance of staying focused and avoiding distractions," she says. "He emphasized that dentistry is a highly competitive field and anything or anyone trying to distract me is not for me or a real friend."
That message has reinforced her mindset to never waver and keep moving forward toward her goals.
"His advice has stayed with me for the last three years, and as harsh as it sounds, it's true. It is a reminder to manage my time wisely and stay focused on the steps I need to achieve my future career."
At its core, Gonzales sees leadership as the impact you make on other people's lives.
"Leadership means serving as a role model, setting an example of professionalism, respect, and being a welcoming figure to others."
The best healthcare leaders pair compassion with care. Read Amber Murray's NSLS Member Spotlight next to see how she brings both to her work as a nurse and the journey that led her there.