At Glacial Lakes Dental in Willmar, MN, we believe that providing exceptional care goes beyond the treatment room—it extends to nurturing the next generation of dental professionals. Recently, we had the privilege of hosting Abdirashid Abdullahi, a dedicated intern whose passion for dentistry and commitment to patient care left a lasting impression on our team and the Willmar community.
A Passion for Making a Difference
Hailing from Willmar, Abdirashid’s journey into dentistry is fueled by a profound desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. With an educational background from Ridgewater College in Liberal Arts and Science, and currently pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting at Herzing University, his ultimate career goal is to become a Dental Hygienist. When asked why he chose dentistry, Abdirashid shared a powerful sentiment: “I chose Dentistry because I want to make a difference in people’s lives. Helping someone feel confident about their smile can change how they see themselves and how they move through the world.” This philosophy aligns perfectly with our mission as a leading dentist in Willmar, where we strive to enhance both the oral health and confidence of our patients.
Hands-On Experience and Professional Growth
During his internship from October 27 to December 4, 2025, Abdirashid was an integral part of our daily operations. His primary responsibilities included chairside assisting, instrument sterilization, infection control, and patient education. He also had the opportunity to observe cleanings, exams, and restorative procedures. Through these experiences, Abdirashid developed crucial hard and soft skills. He learned the importance of teamwork, efficiency, and patient comfort in delivering excellent dental care. “One of the most meaningful parts of my internship was seeing how even small actions like explaining a procedure, calming a nervous patient, or helping prepare instruments could directly impact a patient’s experience,” he noted. His empathy, emotional awareness, and strong communication skills made him a favorite among both staff and patients.
Mentorship Under Dr. Iverson
Abdirashid was drawn to Glacial Lakes Dental because of our strong reputation for compassionate, patient-centered care. Working alongside Dr. John Iverson and the rest of our dedicated staff provided him with valuable mentorship and insight into what it means to be a professional in dentistry. Dr. Iverson, who completed his undergraduate studies at Gustavus Adolphus College and earned his dental degree and Advanced Education in General Dentistry certification from the University of Minnesota, is committed to fostering a learning environment. Under his guidance, Abdirashid experienced firsthand how our team makes time to listen, educate, and truly care for each patient. The values of integrity, quality care, and community connections at Glacial Lakes Dental closely matched Abdirashid’s own goals of becoming a healthcare professional who serves with empathy and excellence.
Community Impact and Looking Forward
One of Abdirashid’s favorite parts of the internship was interacting with patients from the Willmar community and seeing their confidence grow after treatment. “Seeing patients leave happier and more confident made me realize how powerful dental care really is,” he reflected. This experience reinforced the importance of treating every person like family, a core principle of our practice as your trusted Willmar dentist. Outside of dentistry, Abdirashid enjoys staying active, working out at the gym, and playing basketball. Known for being reliable, respectful, and eager to learn, he is always looking for ways to improve. As he continues his education at Herzing University, Abdirashid carries with him the motivation and practical knowledge gained during his time with us. His advice to other students is simple yet profound: “Don’t be afraid to start at the beginning. An internship can teach you more than a textbook ever could.”
We are incredibly proud of Abdirashid and look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in his career. His journey is a testament to the meaningful impact of dental care, not just for smiles but for confidence, health, and quality of life. If you are looking for compassionate, comprehensive dental care for your family, contact Glacial Lakes Dental today. Dr. Iverson and our team are here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.