Melissa Lowry

1. Best career advice you’ve ever received?

“If you want it, chase it.” No one else defines your career, you do. If something isn't working, you have the ability to pivot. Life is too short to stay stuck when you’re capable of building something better.

2. What gives you the most professional satisfaction?

Supporting students at moments when financial uncertainty feels overwhelming. For pre-dental and newly accepted students, the unknown can be intimidating, especially with changes to federal funding and headlines about high private loan rates. For graduating students, the questions shift to repayment strategy, refinancing and balancing debt with long-term goals like practice ownership.

It's my goal to help students move from anxiety to clarity, giving them the information and confidence to make informed financial decisions at every stage of their journey!

3. What important development in your field is flying under the radar?

The changes to federal repayment programs. Much of the conversation has focused on borrowing limits but adjustments to federal repayment structures may significantly impact how new graduates manage their debt. Used strategically, these programs can provide meaningful flexibility early in a dentist's career.

There's nuance in how and when to use these options effectively, yet many students are unaware of how these changes could benefit them. Greater awareness and education around repayment strategy is just as important as understanding how to borrow in the first place.

4. One thing people would be surprised to learn about you?

I used to own a spin studio and have taught spin classes for the last six years! The best form of cardio, in my opinion!

5. Favorite TV show—and why?

Schitt's Creek! It has such good one liners, and it’s a good one to rewatch when you need a comfort show!