When Lisa Gu (Class of 2028) enrolled at the UAB School of Dentistry, she began a new chapter in a family story that started nearly a decade ago when her older sister, Cherie, graduated in 2016. Today, Lisa and her younger brother, David (Class of 2029), are following in her footsteps, returning to Alabama after years away.
The siblings, who spent much of their childhood in Madison, AL before moving to California in 2011, say coming back to Birmingham feels like rediscovering a place that shaped their family.
For Lisa, that pull toward Alabama was personal. After earning a degree in biological sciences from the University of California at Davis, she followed her sister’s advice and her own love for hands-on work straight to UAB.
“As an artist and pianist, I really enjoy the hands-on aspect of dentistry,” Lisa said. That creative streak shapes how she approaches school and life.
It’s the same spirit Lisa brings to building connections. One of her favorite memories so far is a Thankmas potluck with classmates, a moment that reminded her how relationships can make dental school even more rewarding
She knows grades matter, but she also values balance. UAB offers countless ways to get involved, including student organizations, leadership roles, and service opportunities that help students grow beyond the classroom. “The life you make for yourself outside of school – friends, hobbies, lifestyle, and health – are what makes life fulfilling,” she said.
Lisa is active in student organizations, serving as a representative for the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and the Hispanic Student Dental Association (HSDA). Outside the classroom, she enjoys the opportunity to discover Birmingham’s local culture, from new cafes to unique dining spots, and building friendships that will last beyond graduation. She hopes to stay connected to the region after graduation.
Now in his first year, David shares that sense of connection. He studied molecular, cell, and developmental biology at UC Santa Cruz before deciding dentistry was the right fit. Watching Cherie’s work with patients inspired him. “There is an amazing patient to doctor connection that I hope to bring to my own practice,” he said.
For David, UAB was an easy choice. “Having a sibling while in dental school is important to me, so that we as a family can support each other through this journey,” he said.
His favorite part of school so far? The camaraderie among students. “Everyone helps each other and shares resources so that all of us can do our absolute best.” He also enjoyed the first social during welcome week, where students from every class came together. It was a chance to meet new faces and feel part of the community from day one.
David is already gaining hands-on experience and learning from faculty like Dr. Gummadi, whose high standards he says have sharpened his skills in the lab. One early accomplishment stands out: getting his #19 molar signed off. “It felt great to meet Dr. Gummadi’s standards,” he said. That kind of mentorship what makes UAB distinctive: faculty who challenge students while helping them grow.
Both siblings see UAB as a school and a community that feels like home. For Lisa and David, dental school is a way to reconnect with Alabama and with each other, guided by faculty and shaped by experiences that prepare them for what’s next.