A path to HSDM shaped by a chance encounter
Edson De Sousa will continue his training in periodontology at HSDM after completing his DMD, where he developed his interest in research and clinical care
While working as a server in Boston, Edson De Sousa, DMD26, didn’t anticipate that an encounter waiting tables would lead him to dental school at Harvard. Still in college and weighing his next steps, he knew he wanted to pursue dentistry but was uncertain about applying to Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM).
That changed after several conversations with a customer, Mary Anderson, associate director of Human Resources at HSDM. After learning more about his academic interests and goals over the course of their interactions, Anderson encouraged him to take a closer look at the School. Over time, their paths would continue to cross, and the idea that he belonged at HSDM began to feel less unexpected.
“Looking back, that interaction completely changed the trajectory of my path,” said De Sousa. “It is funny how something as simple as serving a table can turn into a life-changing moment. Choosing HSDM is a decision I will never regret.”
Now, De Sousa will spend the next four years continuing his journey in the place he has come to call home, pursuing a residency in HSDM’s four-year periodontology program after graduation in May. The program’s integration of advanced clinical training, research opportunities, and continued connection to the DMD curriculum through teaching and mentorship aligns closely with the kind of clinician he hopes to become.
Going into dental school, De Sousa knew he wanted research to be part of his experience, and it was one of the key reasons he chose HSDM. Early on, he reached out to faculty and explored research across a range of areas, including dental implantology, systemic conditions, periodontology, dental education, and global health, looking for topics that aligned with his own intellectual curiosity.
“I intentionally tried to expose myself to different types of research so I could learn from each experience and better understand where I fit,” he said.
One project that stood out to him was his research on metabolic syndrome and its impact on periodontal treatment outcomes. From developing his initial research question to analyzing clinical data and interpreting results, he gained exposure to the research process and its clinical relevance.
“This experience ultimately helped me realize that research is not separate from who I am, but rather an extension of my curiosity and my desire to provide better, more informed care for my patients,” he said.
At the 2026 IADR General Session in San Diego, De Sousa presented his student research project to clinicians and researchers in the field, and his work was recognized by earning first place in the Student Competition for Advancing Dental Research and its Application (SCADA) Student Clinician Award in the Clinical Science/Public Health category.
Alongside his research, De Sousa was actively involved in the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA) at HSDM, an experience that strengthened his commitment to improving access and communication in care. As a Latino student who spent part of his adolescence in Brazil, he witnessed firsthand the barriers Hispanic communities often face, particularly related to language and access.
“A large portion of the patient population comes from Hispanic and Latino backgrounds, yet there is often a gap in culturally and linguistically appropriate care,” he said. “That reality motivated me to take action in whatever ways I could.”
He also recognized the importance of that work in Massachusetts, home to one of the largest Brazilian populations in the United States. Through the HDA, De Sousa helped develop Portuguese translation booklets with dental terminology to support clearer communication between students and Brazilian patients.
“Something as simple as being able to communicate clearly in a patient’s native language can completely change their experience and level of trust.”
That perspective will continue to guide De Sousa as he enters his periodontology residency. The interdisciplinary program at HSDM combines advanced training in periodontal diagnosis and treatment with exposure to biomedical and health services research. In the program, he will gain experience managing complex periodontal disease and collaborating across dental specialties.
“Periodontology requires a deep understanding of both biology and long-term patient management, and I am excited to continue building that foundation,” he said.
With graduation approaching, De Sousa looks forward to continuing to grow within the close-knit community at HSDM.
“One of the things I value most about HSDM is the ability to build strong relationships with faculty, co-residents, students, and staff, and I am excited to deepen those connections over the next few years.”
For Anderson, what began as a chance encounter stayed with her as well. She recalls being struck by Edson’s ambition, determination, and curiosity during that first meeting. “It’s inspiring to witness his growth, and I am honored to have played a small part in his journey. I’m truly proud of all he’s accomplished and excited that he has decided to continue his studies at HSDM.”