My name is Hayley, and I grew up in Harrison Township, MI. I began my education at Michigan State University, where I received a Bachelor of Science in Package Engineering with a specialization in Health Promotions in 2014. I worked as a Packaging Engineer at Materne North America in Traverse City for two years before deciding to return to school. I received a Master of Science in Basic Medical Sciences from Wayne State University in 2018 before going on to complete my Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree at the University of Michigan in 2022. After many years surviving a long distance relationship, I finally moved back to Traverse City in June 2022 and married my soulmate, Luke. Just two weeks later, I began my career as a General Dentist at Associates in Family Dentistry. I am passionate about volunteering in the community and providing dentistry to underserved populations. In my free time, I enjoy reading while surrounded by our four cats, maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, spending time outdoors with my family, and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans.
Q: Please tell us about yourself.
See above 🙂
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
Originally, I was a Packaging Engineer at Materne North America. I decided to return to school to chase my lifelong dream of becoming a dentist, and now practice at Associates in Family Dentistry in Traverse City. I love every aspect of dentistry. I truly look forward to interacting with and getting to know patients, positively impacting each patient’s oral and systemic health, and building confidence through cosmetic dentistry.
Q: What is your favorite book?
I have so many! Favorite Self-Help book is ‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear, Favorite Psychological Thriller is ‘The Perfect Child’ by Lucinda Berry, Favorite Romance is ‘All Your Perfects’ by Colleen Hoover, Favorite Young Adult Fiction is ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ by Stephen Chbosky…
Q: What are some of your favorite restaurants in our community?
La Senorita, Apache Trout Grill, and Flapjack Shack top the list!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? What brought you to Grand Traverse County?
I lived in Traverse City for 2 years after undergrad, then moved back to Metro Detroit while completing my Masters and Doctorate degrees. I ultimately returned to be with my husband, who was born and raised here. I’ve been here just over 6 months now and don’t think I’ll ever leave!
Q: What advice would you give to people who want to visit our community?
Plan ahead! There are endless options for activities and adventures, great food, excellent wine and beer and family-owned small businesses that keep the charm alive. Prioritizing what you want to do most and making reservations will help you pack so much into a short visit!
Q: If you could choose anyone today with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you all meet?
I’d love to have lunch with Sebastian Maniscalco. We’d meet at Brady’s Bar, order endless wings, and spend hours laughing at his jokes and witty observations about the people of Traverse City.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
As someone that grew up in a much more populated area, I love that I can experience the hustle and bustle of a lively vacation destination, and also enjoy the small town Northern Michigan vibe without ever leaving home.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I have a huge fear of birds! I’ve had at least 3 terrifying experiences during outdoor recreational activities involving a bird attacking the top of my head. Now, I’ll walk very far out of the way to avoid sharing spaces with any bird.
Q: Which yearly event in Grand Traverse County do you enjoy best?
Restaurant Week! It’s an awesome opportunity to experience and enjoy restaurants we don’t get to on a regular basis.
Q: What is your favorite season in Northern Michigan? And what is your favorite activity to do in that season?
Summer, without a doubt. I don’t think there is an activity I don’t love to do during Summer. Spending time on a boat with good friends, roasting marshmallows at a bonfire on a cool night, or getting some fresh air while hiking/biking/running/walking. You can’t go wrong!
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Where I Belong
