At NADG, our company stands united, celebrating our differences and respecting what makes each of us unique. In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, enjoy getting to know a few members of the NADG family as they share personal insights and what Asian Pacific American Heritage Month means to them.
MEET
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Rita Carstens Office Manager Sorrento Dental Care Florida Region 3
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Linh Pring Hygienist McDonough Center Family Dentistry Georgia Region 1 |
Dr. Jung Lee NADG Partner & Dentist Stonewalk Family Dentistry Georgia Region 1
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What is an interesting hobby or talent that you have that someone might not know?
Rita:
I love boating, fishing, and camping. When I “grow-up” I want to be a camp host and travel the United States. I’d like to live in Colorado during the summer months.
Linh:
During the pandemic, I became a crazy ‘plant mama’.
Dr. Lee:
A new hobby for me – learned how to play piano.
What is the proudest moment in your personal life or career?
Rita:
When I married my best friend and when my children and grandchildren were born. Also, seeing my grown children and spouses accomplishing their career goals.
Linh:
It’s always rewarding when I can put smiles on patient’s faces when they overcome their fear of dentistry and that it’s ok to come to the dentist and not have to worry about pain.
Dr. Lee:
The day I got my dental school acceptance letter, it was a long haul for me.
How has your heritage shaped the person you are today?
Rita:
Rita and her mother.
My Japanese mom raised me to be hard working, dedicated, grateful and appreciate everything that you have. Respect your elders!
Linh:
My heritage has shaped me into the person I am today by being open and understanding of other cultures.
Dr. Lee:
As a 1.5 generation Korean American who immigrated to the U.S. as a child and grew up in the states, my parents never ceased to instill the values of common sense and respecting others. My parents always taught me to treat others as you’d like to be treated, and that hard work always pays off. I try my best to practice that philosophy each day.
Does your family have any traditions that are especially important to you?
Rita:
On New Year’s Day we make and eat mochi which is a Japanese rice cake.
Lihn’s daughters – Chloe (2) and Brooklyn (6)
Linh:
Yes, every year we love to dress up in traditional dresses (ao dai) and pass out red envelopes with money (li xi) on Lunar New Year.
What does Asian Pacific AMERICAN Heritage Month mean to you?
Rita:
Recognizing different heritages that makes this great nation come together as one. It recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture and achievements of the United States. My mom came to the United States in 1967 and became a citizen years later so Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is special to me.
Linh:
I think it’s a great opportunity for people to recognize Asian history and culture.
Dr. Lee:
It’s a time of reflection and gratitude. As a matter of fact, we should all celebrate every ethnic heritage every day of the year, and not just one single month. We should value each of our unique cultural heritage with respect and understanding for others. Mutual respect for one another seems to be lacking lately.
Thanks to these exceptional and generous team members for sharing their personal stories and letting us get to know them a little better.