Auburn Biology Graduate Trades Stage lights for Dental Tools, Enrolls at Howard University
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A contestant who captivated audiences on NBC’s “The Voice” is now pursuing a different kind of performance – providing dental care to underserved communities.Godwin, who earned a chair turn from both Kelly Clarkson and Niall Horan during his audition with Ariana Grande’s “Point of View,” has enrolled at Howard University College of Dentistry.
Godwin spent nearly a month in Los Angeles preparing for the show, undergoing wardrobe fittings, interviews, vocal coaching, and live band rehearsals. He described the experiance as “mentally and physically exhausting,” noting the intense preparation required despite the brief two-minute performance seen on television. “you’re rehearsing nonstop, doing media prep, learning to perform with cameras around you,” he said.
While “The voice” offered extraordinary opportunities, the experience solidified Godwin’s long-term ambition: a career in dentistry. He is now preparing dental school applications while completing his biology degree at Auburn University at Montgomery. Approximately 40,000 people audition for “The Voice,” with only around 40 ultimately appearing on the show.
Godwin was drawn to Howard’s mission to serve underserved communities, a commitment resonating with his upbringing in Ashford, Alabama, a rural town of just over 3,000 people.”Where I’m from, there’s a real scarcity of dentists,” he explained. “I’ve seen what it’s like when people have to drive hours just to get care. I want to change that.”
Inspired by his great-uncle and late cousin, both African American dentists practicing in Albany, Georgia, Godwin witnessed firsthand the impact of accessible dental care. “Seeing African American dentists in prosperous practices was eye-opening,” he said. “It showed me what was possible – that I could help underserved communities the same way they did.”
Godwin expressed confidence in his decision, stating, “During orientation, the leaders of the college talked about how the dental clinic accepts patients that other practices might turn away. That confirmed I was in the right place.”
