EIOH Resident Spotlight - Dr. Gabriela Parra
For Dr. Gabriela Parra (Prostho ’25), choosing Eastman Institute for Oral Health was more than a professional decision – it was a family tradition. Her sister, Dr. Adriana Parra Barillas (Ortho ’21, GPR ’19, MS ’19, GenDen ’17), is a proud Eastman alum, whose journey helped to inspire Gabriela’s own path.
Dr. Gabriela Parra first connected with EIOH during a six-month preceptorship in 2019, which left a lasting impression. “After shadowing in the Prostho department, I knew this was where I belonged,” she says.
Q: Where are you from?
A: Costa Rica, where we live and breathe “Pura Vida”! It’s more than just a phrase—it’s a way of life, all about gratitude, positivity, and embracing every moment to the fullest.
Q: Best memory of your EIOH residency?
A: I have so many amazing memories, but the best ones are those quiet moments after a long day, sitting in the lab with my fellow residents, sharing stories, listening to music, and realizing that we’ve all survived another day together.
Q: In what way did your Eastman experience allow you to grow?
A: Eastman has been a rollercoaster of challenges, growth, and unforgettable moments. Every tough case, late-night study session, and patient interaction has shaped me—not just into a better prosthodontist but into a stronger, more resilient person. But one of the most powerful experiences of my journey happened outside the clinic. I had the privilege of traveling to Uganda with the Build your Smile Foundation, and it was life-changing!
There’s nothing quite like seeing people come together to help others with so much heart and gratitude. It’s a humbling, emotional experience that’s hard to put into words. In our daily lives, it’s so easy to get caught up in small complaints, but this outreach showed me a different perspective—one that reminds you just how much you truly have. It made me even more grateful to be here at Eastman, surrounded by incredible professors and co-residents who push me to grow every day.
Q: Favorite thing about EIOH / most important thing you learned in your residency?
A: Hands down, my co-residents! From day one, we built bonds that turned into lifelong friendships. They’re the kind of people who make even the toughest days’ worth it. As for the biggest lesson? I’ve learned that we are far more capable than we realize when we fully commit—whether it’s mastering prosthodontics or lifting each other up through the ups and downs.
Q: What are your next steps after graduation?
A: My husband and I will be staying in Rochester—he will continue his education journey (which I’m really proud of!), and I will be practicing in the area. Even though I’m eager to start this new chapter in private practice, I will always be looking for ways to give back through social work. It will always be a priority in my professional life. No matter where I go, I will always be involved in social work.
Q: If you could give advice to a new resident coming to Eastman, what would you say?
A: First of all, welcome to the wild ride! You’ll have days when everything seems impossible, but that’s part of the process. Always remember, you have complete ownership of your journey. Every challenge you face is an opportunity for growth, and the experience is yours to shape. Trust me, it will be a ride full of learning, laughter, and plenty of teeth. You’ve got this.
Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
A: I’m pretty happy with who I am—flaws and all! But if I could tweak something, I’d love to master the art of juggling and have next-level presentation skills. Public speaking still gets my heart racing— but who knows, maybe one day I’ll be giving TED Talks with zero stress.
Q: Best advice you ever received?
A: “Become a prosthodontist.” Honestly, it was the best advice ever, even though I was torn between pediatrics and prostho. But everyone who knows me knows I’m a perfectionist with a creative flair, and Prostho was the perfect fit.
Q: Favorite place you’ve traveled?
A: Brussels — hands down! After running the Paris marathon in 2019, I treated myself to all the beer and chocolate Brussels could offer. Best. Decision. Ever.
Q: Favorite game to watch or play?
A: Soccer! Growing up in Costa Rica, it’s practically in our DNA. I used to go to every game with my dad.
Q: If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
A: Stopping time. Life is so fast-paced sometimes, and I just want to hit the pause button to spend more time with family, reflect, and enjoy the moment.
Q: If you could eat only one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
A: Mac and cheese (with extra cheese) and ice cream. Not much of a chef, but my mac and cheese game is top tier.
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