bsdh Archives | 国产主播 110+ years in education. 50,000 alumni across the globe. Infinite opportunities. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 21:38:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 /wp-content/uploads/2023/02/cropped-favicon-32x32.png bsdh Archives | 国产主播 32 32 Veteran and WCU Grad Sets Sights on Future in Dental Hygiene and Business /blog/veteran-and-wcu-grad-sets-sights-on-future-in-dental-hygiene-and-business Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:00:59 +0000 /?p=28406

After six years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, Freddy H. knew he wanted a career in the dental field. There was just one problem: The Marine Corps is the only branch without its own dental or medical program. 鈥淚 always wanted to do the dental field,鈥 Freddy said. 鈥淲e rely on the […]

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After six years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, Freddy H. knew he wanted a career in the dental field. There was just one problem: The Marine Corps is the only branch without its own dental or medical program.

鈥淚 always wanted to do the dental field,鈥 Freddy said. 鈥淲e rely on the Navy for that. So either stay in or get out. I decided to get out and pursue my career in the dental field.鈥

The transition wasn鈥檛 immediate. Freddy left the military in 2019, taking a year to find the right program. He completed online coursework with other schools while overseas, but it wasn鈥檛 until 2022 that he enrolled in 国产主播鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program in Orange County.

West Coast鈥檚 accelerated format was a deciding factor. 鈥淥ther programs took a little longer to get in,鈥 he said. 鈥淲ith West Coast, you go into general education and go straight into the actual program itself.鈥

The program was Freddy鈥檚 first in-person college experience, and he adapted quickly 鈥 thanks in part to WCU鈥檚 hands-on approach. 鈥淎t West Coast, they do provide simulation for every student. It鈥檚 a pretty good experience, especially with hands-on. And then of course we have the clinical aspects as well, with dental hygiene having their own facility out of the Manchester campus,鈥 he said.

Freddy鈥檚 motivation came from being a first-generation college student and making his parents proud. 鈥淭hat was my motivation 鈥 going into college and being the first grad,鈥 he said.

Looking back, he wished he had started sooner. 鈥淚 probably would have started the program a long time ago 鈥 and I would have got my bachelor鈥檚 degree way faster,鈥 Freddy admitted. 鈥淏ut as long as I did it, I still accomplished it. That鈥檚 the main goal.鈥

For future students, Freddy recommends dental hygiene for those who want a career between dental assisting and dentistry. 鈥淚f you want to get into the dental field like dental hygiene, I would definitely recommend it,鈥 he said. 鈥淲est Coast does prepare you. It is a rigorous program. They do overprepare you, but that鈥檚 a good thing.鈥

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How to Go From Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist in 4 Steps /blog/dental-assistant-to-dental-hygienist Fri, 19 Dec 2025 21:38:19 +0000 /?p=29611 Dental Assistant

If you enjoy being a dental assistant but want to work more closely with patients, you might consider becoming a dental hygienist. These professionals work alongside dentists to assess patients and provide care. With your background in the dental field, you can make the transition from dental assistant to dental hygienist in just a few […]

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Dental Assistant

If you enjoy being a dental assistant but want to work more closely with patients, you might consider becoming a dental hygienist. These professionals work alongside dentists to assess patients and provide care.

With your background in the dental field, you can make the transition from dental assistant to dental hygienist in just a few steps. While every professional journey is different, this guide will show you a general outline on how to advance into a hygiene role.

What鈥檚 the Difference Between a Dental Assistant vs. a Dental Hygienist?

Dental assistants and dental hygienists might have similar job titles and some overlapping responsibilities, but they in dental clinics. Hygienists usually spend more time delivering patient care, while assistants split their time between helping dentists and handling administrative work.

There are also different educational requirements for the two roles. usually only need a certificate or diploma to start working. need at least an associate degree, though some employers prefer hygienists to have their bachelor鈥檚.

It鈥檚 common to begin your career as a dental assistant and gain experience before transitioning into a role as a hygienist. WCU graduate Julie Rehder worked as a dental assistant for almost five years before she went back to school to earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in dental hygiene.

鈥淭he dentist I worked for was encouraging me to pursue my degree and after my best friend graduated from the same program at West Coast鈥t drove it home that I could do it,鈥 she said.

If you鈥檙e interested in doing the same, it鈥檚 worth knowing the biggest differences between dental assistants and dental hygienists.

Dental Assistant Responsibilities

As a dental assistant, you know the drill 鈥 literally. These professionals offer support to dentists and dental hygienists, and they also handle many administrative tasks. Their (but aren鈥檛 limited to) the following:

  • Prepare and clean treatment rooms
  • Make patients feel comfortable
  • Pass tools to dentists
  • Maintain patient records
  • Schedule appointments
  • Manage billing processes

Dental Hygienist Responsibilities

Dental hygienists usually have more responsibilities than assistants. They can provide direct patient care with minimal or no supervision. Hygienists also work closely with dentists to prepare treatment plans.

A dental hygienist鈥檚 may include these tasks, among others:

  • Perform teeth cleanings and remove tartar and plaque buildup
  • Assess patients for potential problems, like gum disease
  • Position patients for X-rays and take pictures of teeth
  • Consult with dentists to determine treatment plans
  • Advise patients on healthy oral hygiene practices, like flossing

While many dental hygienists work in clinical care, some choose to take different paths. According to the (ADHA), some other potential areas where hygienists can work include:

  • Public health
  • Education
  • Corporate
  • Research and innovation
  • Administration
  • Entrepreneurship

Earning a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) can open doors to these different pathways.

How to Become a Dental Hygienist From a Dental Assistant

Even with your experience as a dental assistant, you need to take a few extra steps before you can transition fully into a hygienist role. These include earning a degree, passing exams, and becoming licensed to practice.

Here鈥檚 how you can prepare for the next step in your dental career:

1. Complete a Dental Hygiene Program

Start by researching the dental hygiene program you want to attend. Decide whether you plan to earn an associate or bachelor鈥檚 degree. Look for schools with an accredited dental hygiene program.

Once you鈥檝e picked a school, complete an application and meet other requirements for admission. During the application process, highlight your dental assisting experience and career goals to show why you鈥檇 make a great fit for the dental hygiene program.

While in school, you will take a variety of classes, such as anatomy, oral pathology, dental radiology, and periodontology. Your program will also include hands-on clinical training, so you can get experience working with patients.

2. Pass the NBDHE

After graduating from a dental hygiene program, you can sign up to take the (NBDHE). This national exam has 350 multiple-choice questions designed to test your knowledge of core dental hygiene areas, including:

  • Scientific principles
  • Clinical dental hygiene services
  • Community health and research
  • Patient care

You should get your test results about three to four weeks after the exam.

3. Meet State Requirements for Licensure

All states require dental hygienists to have a professional license, but specific requirements vary. In California, you must pass a law and ethics examination to earn your license. If you didn鈥檛 graduate from a California accredited program, you will also need to take a board-approved clinical exam.

4. Apply for Jobs

Once you鈥檝e earned your degree and license, you can start applying for dental hygienist jobs. Update your resume to reflect your new education and clinical training. Highlight the transferable skills you learned from your previous experience as a dental assistant, such as patient communication and compassion.

As you search for jobs, lean on your existing network. Ask around to see if anyone at your former practice knows about potential openings. , nearly half of all new jobs get filled through networking. Use your connections as a former dental assistant to your advantage!

How Long Does It Take to Become a Dental Hygienist?

It takes between to become a dental hygienist, depending on whether you earn an associate or bachelor鈥檚 degree in dental hygiene.

If you want to continue working while going to school, speak with your current employer before enrolling. Many dental hygiene programs are full time, so you may need some scheduling flexibility to balance both commitments.

Advance Your Education With A Dental Hygiene Degree From WCU

With the right education, training, and preparation, you can make the move from dental assistant to dental hygienist. While the transition requires time and commitment, it can be well worth the investment if you want to work more closely with patients and expand your career options.

At 国产主播, we can help you prepare to make the move with our Dental Hygiene program. Our comprehensive curriculum, on-campus clinical training, and access to industry-current equipment will give you the opportunity to advance in your dental career.

You can complete the program and earn your dental hygiene degree in as little as 34 months. Want to learn more? Schedule an information session today!

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Dental Tips for Keeping Your Teeth Clean This Halloween /blog/dental-tips-for-halloween Thu, 16 Oct 2025 20:56:16 +0000 /?p=28830 Teeth Clean Halloween

What鈥檚 scarier than the ghosts and goblins you might find lurking in the shadows this Halloween? Poor dental hygiene! Halloween may be full of frights, but cavities don鈥檛 have to be one of them. With the right approach, you can enjoy this sweet holiday while protecting your teeth at the same time. We鈥檝e rounded up […]

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Teeth Clean Halloween

What鈥檚 scarier than the ghosts and goblins you might find lurking in the shadows this Halloween?

Poor dental hygiene!

Halloween may be full of frights, but cavities don鈥檛 have to be one of them. With the right approach, you can enjoy this sweet holiday while protecting your teeth at the same time. We鈥檝e rounded up some helpful dental tips for keeping your teeth happy and healthy this Halloween.

Eat Sweets in Moderation

As a kid, you may have planned your trick-or-treating route based on which houses handed out full-size candy bars. After all, the more candy, the better 鈥 right?

Not quite. When you consume candy, the added sugars convert into acids that damage your teeth. Over time, this damage can lead to cavities and .

The good news is you don鈥檛 need to avoid candy altogether on Halloween. The key is moderation. Swap a full-size candy bar for a fun-size portion. Instead of grazing on sweets all day, enjoy a few of them in one sitting. With some simple adjustments, you can still enjoy the spirit of the holiday (and probably avoid a stomachache, too).

Know the Best and Worst Candy for Teeth

While all sugar can cause cavities, some candy is worse than others for your dental health. In particular, sticky and chewy candies, like taffy and gummies, are among the worst foods for your teeth, according to the (ADA). These foods can get stuck in your teeth, trapping the sugar in places where it鈥檚 harder to reach with brushing.

For chocolate lovers, however, there鈥檚 some better news. Chocolate dissolves more quickly and won鈥檛 stick to your teeth as long, . Whether you鈥檙e attending a Halloween party or stealing a piece from your child鈥檚 trick-or-treat bag, chocolate is one of your best options.

Remember to Brush

If you indulge in Halloween鈥檚 sweeter traditions, you鈥檒l want to know how to prevent cavities after eating candy. Luckily, there鈥檚 a simple solution: brushing your teeth.

It鈥檚 best to wait before brushing your teeth after you eat sugary foods. Waiting to brush allows your saliva to dissolve acids naturally and protect your enamel from weakening. You can also rinse your mouth with water after eating candy.

Once it鈥檚 time to brush, follow some . Brush for 2 minutes using a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles. Use a fluoride toothpaste and don鈥檛 rinse with water after spitting.

Pop Some Gum

For those times when you鈥檙e not able to brush after eating, keep some sugarless gum handy in your bag, car, or desk. , sugar-free gum helps your mouth produce saliva, which works to reduce the acid from sugars. While it鈥檚 not a substitute for proper brushing and flossing, chewing sugar-free gum can help minimize the impact of sugary treats.

Drink Water

If you know you鈥檒l be enjoying some extra sweets around Halloween, stick to water as your beverage of choice. Unlike juices or soft drinks, water helps by washing away food and sugary residue. Water also works to neutralize the acids that cause cavities and tooth decay. Sip water after eating candy to keep your teeth healthy.

Donate Extra Candy

After hosting a festive gathering or handing out sweets to trick-or-treaters, you may find yourself with bags of leftover candy once Halloween ends. Rather than keeping this excess candy for yourself, consider donating it.

Some organizations accept Halloween candy for a good cause. For example, Soldiers鈥 Angels collects candy for its , which sends care packages to military members. Local organizations in your community, such as food banks or homeless shelters, may also accept donations.

Opt for Other Halloween Treats

Planning on handing out candy to trick-or-treaters? This year, consider skipping the candy and giving out something other than treats. Alternatives like crayons, glow sticks, and stickers can make children smile without adding more sugar to their candy haul. Plus, you won鈥檛 be tempted to overindulge on candy when you don鈥檛 have any in the house.

Have Fun

More than anything, have fun and enjoy the holiday. Eat your favorite treats and make sweet memories with your family and friends. With these dental tips in mind, you can celebrate Halloween while protecting your smile.

Encourage Others to Follow Dental Tips with a Career in Dental Hygiene

Halloween doesn鈥檛 have to be frightening for your oral health. By following a few simple dental tips, like eating sweets in moderation, drinking water, and brushing regularly, you can enjoy the treats without the tricks.

If you鈥檙e passionate about helping others practice good dental hygiene, consider making it your career. At 国产主播, our Dental Hygiene program helps prepare students for a rewarding career in dental care. In as little as 34 months, you can earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in dental hygiene (BSDH) and start helping others keep their smiles healthy on Halloween and all year long.

Ready to take the next step toward your future career? Schedule an information session today!

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Can You Study Dental Hygiene Online? What You Need to Know /blog/can-you-study-dental-hygiene-online-what-you-need-to-know Mon, 06 Oct 2025 23:22:22 +0000 /?p=28648 Can You Study Dental Hygiene Online? What You Need to Know

These days, it seems like you can do almost anything online, from shopping to banking to streaming your favorite TV shows. But can you study dental hygiene online? If you鈥檙e interested in becoming a dental hygienist, you won鈥檛 be able to get all the training you need from a virtual program. This patient-focused career requires […]

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Can You Study Dental Hygiene Online? What You Need to Know

These days, it seems like you can do almost anything online, from shopping to banking to streaming your favorite TV shows. But can you study dental hygiene online?

If you鈥檙e interested in becoming a dental hygienist, you won鈥檛 be able to get all the training you need from a virtual program. This patient-focused career requires a well-rounded education combining both classroom instruction and clinical practice. With practical hands-on experience, you can gain the skills and confidence you need to pursue a career in dental hygiene.

This article will walk you through everything you should know about studying dental hygiene online and the requirements to become a dental hygienist.

Can You Earn a Degree in Dental Hygiene Online?

No, you typically cannot earn a dental hygiene degree online. To become a licensed dental hygienist, you must complete a program that includes hands-on clinical training. This real-world experience can help you develop the clinical skills you will use in your future career.

For one 国产主播-Orange County graduate, clinical training gave him the confidence he needed for his future career path. Jonathon says this hands-on experience 鈥渆ngrains in you the skills and values that you need as a dental hygienist.鈥

For those who already have an associate degree and want to further their education, there are online dental hygiene programs that result in a bachelor鈥檚 degree. However, you can only enroll in those programs if you鈥檙e already a practicing dental hygienist.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists help patients protect their oral health. As a dental hygienist, your cleaning patients鈥 teeth, taking X-rays, and offering advice on proper oral hygiene. Before you get started in this career, you will need to complete a dental hygiene program and become licensed.

Here are the typical requirements to :

1. Complete a Dental Hygiene Program

Dental hygienists need at least an associate degree, but many choose to get a bachelor鈥檚 degree because it offers more career options, according to the .

Depending on the program, it typically takes around 3 years to earn a dental hygiene degree. Some classes you may take in a dental hygiene program include:

  • Medical terminology
  • Anatomy
  • Pharmacology
  • Oral pathology
  • Periodontology
  • Patient education
  • Dental public health

In addition to coursework, dental hygiene programs usually include laboratory and clinical practice components. This training allows you to expand on the skills you鈥檝e learned in the classroom and practice techniques under the supervision of licensed professionals.

2. Pass a National Exam

Once you鈥檝e earned a dental hygiene degree, you can sign up to take the . This written exam includes 350 multiple-choice questions about dental hygienists鈥 core responsibilities. It tests your knowledge of various concepts, including:

  • Anatomic sciences
  • Assessing patient characteristics
  • Obtaining and interpreting radiographs
  • Planning and managing dental hygiene care
  • Performing periodontal procedures
  • Using preventive agents
  • Providing supportive treatment services
  • Professional responsibility

For more information about the exam and how it鈥檚 structured, you can check out the .

3. Meet State Requirements

Every state has its own requirements for becoming a licensed dental hygienist. In most states, you need to pass a clinical examination.

For example, you must take a law and ethics examination to become a licensed dental hygienist in California. If you鈥檙e applying for jobs elsewhere, you can check with the for specific licensing requirements.

Advantages of On-Campus Dental Hygiene Programs

Dental hygienists spend their days interacting with patients and working closely with dentists. For this reason, in-person clinical training is an invaluable part of your dental hygiene education. The advantages of this instruction include:

  • Hands-on training: An on-campus program gives you the opportunity to practice your newly learned skills under the direction of experienced instructors. You can get individualized, real-time feedback to build your skills and confidence.
  • Access to equipment:聽Many in-person programs provide access to technologically advanced equipment you鈥檒l use on the job, such as X-ray machines. You can become comfortable using these tools in real-world settings.
  • Real-life preparation for licensing exams: The practical experience you gain through clinical training can help you prepare for the national and state licensing exams you鈥檒l take after graduation. Often, this training is aligned with the clinical and care-based topics you may be tested on.
  • Networking opportunities: On-campus programs allow you to build relationships with experienced faculty and other students. The connections you make in school can serve you well, especially as you start your career.

Gain Real-Life Experience Through WCU鈥檚 Dental Hygiene Program

Studying dental hygiene online might sound like a good idea, but it won鈥檛 teach you the practical skills you need to learn for this healthcare career. Completing an on-campus program with personalized instruction and hands-on training is the best way to prepare for a career in dental hygiene.

At 国产主播, our Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) program offers plenty of opportunities to gain real-life experience. You鈥檒l have access to a simulation lab with industry-current dental hygiene equipment, so you can practice your skills in real-world settings. As you get closer to graduation, you can begin working at our on-campus WCU Dental Hygiene Clinic, which provides free care to patients in the community who need it.

Our BSDH program offers flexible start dates at our Orange County campus, and you can earn your degree in as little as 34 months. If you鈥檙e ready to get started, schedule an information session to learn more!

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Empowering Public Health: A Journey from Alumna to Course Director and Non-profit Founder /blog/empowering-public-health-a-journey-from-alumna-to-course-director-and-non-profit-founder Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:31:49 +0000 /?p=16169 Roberta S., MPH '20

Roberta S., MPH ’20, found herself on an unexpected path when she reconnected with her old friends Michelle H., Dean of Dental Hygiene at WCU and Debi G., Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment at WCU, through a dental hygiene association. Encouraged by Debi to apply for a teaching position at 国产主播, Roberta, […]

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Roberta S., MPH '20

Roberta S., MPH ’20, found herself on an unexpected path when she reconnected with her old friends Michelle H., Dean of Dental Hygiene at WCU and Debi G., Executive Director of Curriculum and Assessment at WCU, through a dental hygiene association.

Encouraged by Debi to apply for a teaching position at 国产主播, Roberta, who had been teaching at another school, joined WCU as a clinical and lab instructor for biochemistry in 2016.

Teaching at WCU was a fulfilling experience for Roberta. She found joy in sharing her knowledge with students and learning from them.

鈥淚 really loved teaching there. It鈥檚 wonderful because you learn so much from teaching,鈥 Roberta said.

Inspired by her teaching experience, Roberta decided to pursue further education and enrolled in the online Master鈥檚 in Public Health program at WCU.

The MPH program appealed to Roberta because of its comprehensive curriculum, covering various aspects of public health. The program’s flexibility allowed her to complete her coursework from anywhere.

Despite being virtual, Roberta felt connected to her professors and cohort, describing the experience as being part of a family.

鈥淭he instructors were very interesting and always available to answer a question or help,鈥 she said, adding that her cohort also proved to be a valuable resource. 鈥淵ou felt like you were part of a family.鈥

The program’s community health component had a profound impact on Roberta, providing her with a new perspective on global health issues. This newfound awareness motivated her to make a difference beyond the classroom.

In addition to her role as course director for biochemistry and nutrition at WCU, Roberta is the founder of “United Tooth Fairies,” a non-profit organization that provides oral health care services to girls aged 4-15 in Guatemala.

Through United Tooth Fairies, Roberta and her team have been able to make a tangible impact on the lives of these girls, providing them with essential dental care and education.

For Roberta, the most rewarding aspect of her work is seeing the girls grow, stay in school, and pursue education, knowing that she has played a part in their journey.

鈥淵ou feel so good inside that you can help somebody,鈥 Roberta said. 鈥淲atching these girls grow and stay in school and get educated is a reward itself.鈥

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Dental Hygiene Alum Confidently Tackles Any Challenge Post-Graduation /blog/dental-hygiene-alum-confidently-tackles-any-challenge-post-graduation Wed, 10 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000 /?p=15020 Paola C., a graduate of 国产主播's dental hygiene program

Paola C., a graduate of 国产主播’s dental hygiene program, was born in Mexico and moved to America with her family when she was twelve years old. She started sixth grade not knowing any English. 鈥淢y professor was American, and she didn鈥檛 speak any Spanish,鈥 Paola recalled. 鈥淚 got through it and never failed […]

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Paola C., a graduate of 国产主播's dental hygiene program

Paola C., a graduate of 国产主播’s dental hygiene program, was born in Mexico and moved to America with her family when she was twelve years old. She started sixth grade not knowing any English.

鈥淢y professor was American, and she didn鈥檛 speak any Spanish,鈥 Paola recalled. 鈥淚 got through it and never failed any classes. I learned English by the eighth grade鈥nything is possible if you really put your head into it.鈥

Paola’s introduction to the world of dental hygiene took place a few years later in high school when she participated in an ROP (Regional Occupational Program). This program exposed her to the profession, and it was there that she found inspiration from a dental hygienist who exuded happiness and intelligence.

“I wanted to be her when I grew up,” Paola said. “That kind of guided me towards a dental hygiene career.”

In 2020, after working as a dental assistant for nearly five years while completing her prerequisites, Paola enrolled in WCU鈥檚 dental hygiene program. She chose WCU for its reputation and the opportunity to start her studies right away.

鈥湽鞑 is one of the best schools in my opinion,鈥 she said. 鈥淭he way they train you to work in the field is just amazing.鈥

A defining moment in the program was her community service course, which allowed Paola to connect not only with patients at WCU but also with communities beyond. It reignited her passion for dental hygiene and the desire to graduate and contribute to overall patient well-being.

鈥淚 can’t wait to graduate and actually help the community and the patients here,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t was really nice to train and educate people on oral hygiene and oral health awareness.鈥

She described WCU as the “military of dental hygiene” and credited it with making her current work feel easy. While going through open clinics as a student, Paola and her classmates were introduced to worst case scenarios.

鈥淲e would see a lot of patients hadn’t been to a dentist in like 10 years,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hey over prepare you for sure. They know what they鈥檙e teaching and they know what the real world is going to be like.鈥

After graduating in November 2022, Paola moved near her home in the Imperial Valley, where she worked for seven months. There, she enjoyed serving the small town.

鈥淭hat was my first dental hygiene job and I loved it,鈥 Paola said. 鈥淚t felt nice to be able to help my own community.鈥

Today, Paola serves as a dental hygienist in two offices in Orange County, California, catering to patients of all ages. Driven by her passion for educating future dental hygienists, she envisions returning to WCU to share her expertise as an instructor. She encourages prospective dental hygiene students not to give up.

“It’s going to be hard, but if it was easy, everyone would do it,” Paola said. “国产主播 prepares you for everything, even the worst, and now work is a breeze.”

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Alumni Spotlight: Finding a Rewarding Healthcare Career as Part of the American Dream /blog/alumni-spotlight-finding-a-rewarding-healthcare-career-as-part-of-the-american-dream Thu, 21 Dec 2023 21:43:34 +0000 /?p=14956 Alumna Selina M.

Alumna Selina M.鈥檚 story starts very far from 国产主播, all the way in her home country of Iran where she spent the first 10 years of her life. When her parents decided to move to the United States, it was with big dreams of giving their four daughters opportunities they might not otherwise […]

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Alumna Selina M.

Alumna Selina M.鈥檚 story starts very far from 国产主播, all the way in her home country of Iran where she spent the first 10 years of her life. When her parents decided to move to the United States, it was with big dreams of giving their four daughters opportunities they might not otherwise have.

鈥淚t鈥檚 not easy changing lifestyles. Being in a Muslim country and coming to America is completely different,鈥 she said of the experience.

When she immigrated, Selina didn鈥檛 speak a word of English. It took some adjusting, but one thing she liked about her life in the U.S. was the freedom to explore diverse careers. The move meant she could find a profession that capitalized on her strengths.

In previous jobs, however, Selina didn鈥檛 find the fulfillment she sought.

She realized something wasn鈥檛 quite right when she began getting the Sunday Scaries, anxiety that would set in when she thought of the impending work week. It wasn鈥檛 until she got a job at a dental office that the feeling changed. The Sunday anxiety eased. Instead, she found she genuinely enjoyed working directly with patients. Going to a job she liked made all the difference.

That鈥檚 when she decided to enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program at WCU. Studying dental hygiene was her way of making the most of the opportunities her parents gave her.

Her educational journey, however, wasn鈥檛 without struggle. While in school, Selina lived in Burbank, which meant commuting around 130 miles per day to attend her classes at the WCU-Orange County campus in Anaheim. Fortunately, she became close with her cohort and found an amazing support network of classmates who came together to ease her commute when she needed it.

鈥淭hey would ask me to stay with them,鈥 Selina explained. 鈥淢y few friends became like my family.鈥

Selina graduated in June 2023 and became a registered dental hygienist. 鈥淚 went from moving continents when I was 10 years old and didn鈥檛 know a single word in English to finishing this program. It鈥檚 a great feeling.鈥

Now, the Sunday Scaries are a thing of the past. 鈥淚 love going to work and seeing my patients,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 love the environment and the work I am doing.鈥

As for her parents who left their home country to give their daughters better opportunities, Selina says they are incredibly proud now that all four of them have graduated from university. 鈥淭hey know they did the right thing by moving here. They鈥檙e happy I鈥檓 happy.鈥

In the future, Selina鈥檚 goal is to get her master鈥檚 degree in education and perhaps even return to WCU as an instructor.

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WCU Students Embark on Mission to Deliver Dental Care, Education on Catalina Island /blog/wcu-students-embark-on-mission-to-deliver-dental-care-education-on-catalina-island Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:00:00 +0000 /?p=12375

国产主播 students sailed to Catalina Island this summer on a mission to brighten smiles at the Children鈥檚 Dental Health Clinic.  Led by WCU-Orange County dental hygiene professor Stormy Li, the six students spent two days on the island but had little time for sightseeing.聽 鈥淲hen we arrived, we went directly to the clinic,鈥 […]

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国产主播 students sailed to Catalina Island this summer on a mission to brighten smiles at the Children鈥檚 Dental Health Clinic. 

Led by WCU-Orange County dental hygiene professor Stormy Li, the six students spent two days on the island but had little time for sightseeing.聽

鈥淲hen we arrived, we went directly to the clinic,鈥 Li said. 

On both days of their 鈥渜uick but full trip,鈥 the student volunteers provided oral hygiene instructions, prophylaxis, fluoride, and even some sealants with their pediatric patients. 

A non-profit dental and teaching program, the Children鈥檚 Dental Health Clinic serves about 5,500 patients each year at its main location in Long Beach and its school-based clinic on Santa Catalina Island, which partners with WCU to receive dental hygiene students three times a year. 

鈥淪ome of our students were also able to give toothbrushes and an oral health presentation to preschoolers,鈥 Li shared. 鈥淚 think these students are amazing because they volunteered to go during their term break.鈥 

The WCU dental hygiene students included Anthony N., Anissa T., Gohar M., Kayla P., Naif S., and Sameen D. To participate, they had to meet GPA requirements, be in good standing with the university, and write an essay on the importance of community service.  

鈥淚t was a fulfilling opportunity,鈥 WCU-OC student Naif S. said. 鈥淥ur interactions with the patients we treated were heartwarming to say the least. In addition to treating these patients, we were also able to educate them on how to continually improve their oral hygiene. I highly encourage future students to jump at this opportunity.鈥  

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国产主播 BSDH Students Take Oral Health Education Beyond the Clinic聽 /blog/west-coast-university-bsdh-students-take-oral-health-education-beyond-the-clinic Wed, 11 Oct 2023 21:30:00 +0000 /?p=11830

This summer, 国产主播 students visited multiple communities in Southern California to help educate diverse populations on the importance of oral health.  As part of their community dental health project class, the WCU-Orange County dental hygiene cohort provided dental health knowledge at sites including No Limits Learning Center, Boys & Girls Club, Arbor Palms […]

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This summer, 国产主播 students visited multiple communities in Southern California to help educate diverse populations on the importance of oral health. 

As part of their community dental health project class, the WCU-Orange County dental hygiene cohort provided dental health knowledge at sites including No Limits Learning Center, Boys & Girls Club, Arbor Palms of Anaheim, and Head Start.聽

鈥淚n their project, they determine the needs of the population, then create a lesson plan with activities to present,鈥 WCU-OC dental hygiene instructor Mary Ann Pederson said. 鈥淓ach participant receives oral hygiene products and is encouraged to practice the new habits they learned.鈥 

Not only did this collaboration allow students to help instruct adults living with disabilities, children, seniors, and others in need; it also provided an opportunity to see how impactful a direct connection with community members can be, Pederson said. 

鈥淲e leave each experience as better dental health care educators, and better humans,鈥 she shared.  

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