Another busy semester has begun for Alex Matthews (Pre-Medicine ’22). He is starting his fourth year of studies in the Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) and Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) dual degree program at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in Cleveland, Ohio.
On a typical day after class, Alex stops by his locker for his dental handpieces before heading to the clinic. There, he checks teeth for cavities, gum disease, and other health conditions that could threaten a person’s overall welfare. This life-changing care helps keep his clients healthy for years to come. Some surgeries, like oral implants, even give Alex’s patients the ability to smile again. “In clinic, we do everything your dentist would—fillings, crowns, dentures, and extractions,” Alex shared.
Seeing the Need for Dentists
Alex discovered his passion for dentistry when he was just 13 years old. After noticing that doctors were scarce in his Tennessee hometown, he decided to explore careers in medicine. He soon set his sights on oral healthcare after seeing professionals at work. When he was older, he committed to the field after learning it was affected by a lack of workers. “I shadowed at a dental office and immediately fell in love with it,” Alex recalled. “Realizing there was a nationwide shortage of dentists, which mirrored my own experiences, directed me into public health dentistry,” he added.
When he completed high school, Alex took the first steps to become a dentist by applying to colleges. Although he was accepted by multiple schools, Alex chose to study pre-medicine at Pensacola Christian College because he wanted a faith-based education. Alex was not sure how he would afford tuition at the time, but he decided to trust in God’s provision. “Attending PCC was an intentional decision to choose an institution that had the strongest ability to support my spiritual life,” Alex shared. “We had to take a step of faith at that time that I would be able to afford PCC, but I knew that PCC was where I was meant to be,” he continued.
“We had to take a step of faith . . . but I knew that PCC was where I was meant to be.”
Alex soon found that PCC prioritized not only a Christian curriculum but also an unmatched cost. The financial assistance programs at the College made it possible for Alex to complete his education without having to take out student loans. “With the Fourth Year Tuition-Free program, working on campus, and scholarships from PCC and several community organizations, I was able to graduate from PCC debt-free and with excess funds I was able to transfer to my next institution,” Alex shared.
Looking back at his undergraduate experience, Alex recognizes that the rigorous education at PCC fully equipped him for graduate school. His science classes primed him for medical studies, and his core courses gave him the foundational skills he needed to thrive in professional life. “The liberal arts curriculum [at PCC] pushes students to study many different disciplines; not only does it provide a more well-rounded educational experience, but it prepared me well for dental school,” Alex said.
Award-Winning Research Activities
After graduating from PCC, Alex moved to Ohio to enroll in CWRU’s D.M.D./M.P.H. dual degree program. Alex selected this school because it offers diverse research opportunities. His two degrees are preparing him to pursue oral care with an appreciation for healthcare policy. “I wanted to do more than just practice clinical dentistry; I wanted to participate in research and outreach programs, and CWRU has a long-standing reputation for award-winning research activities and innovative outreach programs,” Alex shared.
“I wanted to do more than just practice clinical dentistry; I wanted to participate in research and outreach programs.”
While at graduate school, Alex has collaborated with Dr. Sena Narendran to compile research projects that focus on improving oral care and making it more widely available. In 2025 and 2024, Alex’s projects won several prestigious awards. He received first place for his project titled Dental Hygienists’ Awareness and Support for Emerging Oral Health Personnel at the Student Competition for the Advancement of Dental Research and its Application. Additionally, Alex took home Best in Show, Second Prize, and First Place for his project Access to Dental Care for Children with Special Healthcare Needs in Ohio at competitions hosted in the Ohio Dental Association, American Association of Public Health Dentistry, and Ohio Public Health Association.
In addition to receiving awards, Alex has enjoyed bonding with professors and colleagues during the research process and while staging his finished work. He has visited international cities for conferences, including Barcelona, Spain, and Montreal, Canada, along with national venues in Orlando and New York City. “[It has been rewarding] to present projects literally around the world to share ideas with other researchers who are passionate about the same issues I am, and to make memories with new friends that I will continue to remember for years to come,” Alex shared.
Improving Healthcare for All
Alex’s vision for his career has additional patient care and research with community service at its center. When he graduates, he plans to begin a residency program that will allow him to continue studying his field, participate in organized dentistry, and care for children’s dental health. Ultimately, Alex wants to improve healthcare for all ages. “Long-term, I plan to split my time between practicing clinical dentistry, researching and teaching, outreach and missions work, and effecting changes in public policy to improve the health of the global population,” Alex said.
“Patient care has been incredibly rewarding,”
Along with researching dentistry, Alex is deeply fulfilled by his clinical work. Every day, he improves his clients’ oral health through cleanings, extractions, and other necessary treatments. Some of his guests were grateful because his treatment allowed them to smile again. “Patient care has been incredibly rewarding,” Alex reflected. “Having patients cry upon seeing the first teeth they’ve had in years—I literally get to create smiles on their faces,” he added.
Since choosing to study pre-medicine, Alex has embarked on a great adventure. He laid the foundations for a fulfilling healthcare career at PCC, and he continues his calling at dental school. When reflecting on his experiences, Alex has joy in knowing that he is living out God’s will for his life. “If you stay committed to the principles you know to be true and do the small things you know to be right, you will be blessed with peace and contentment,” Alex shared. “That doesn’t mean every day will be easy or fun, but you’ll know you’re in the right place. And there’s nothing quite like that feeling.”
Read more about how God is directing and working through PCC faculty and alumni.