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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.

“I always wanted to do the dental field,” Freddy said. “We 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.”

The transition wasn’t 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’t until 2022 that he enrolled in ��������’s Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program in Orange County.

West Coast’s accelerated format was a deciding factor. “Other programs took a little longer to get in,” he said. “With West Coast, you go into general education and go straight into the actual program itself.”

The program was Freddy’s first in-person college experience, and he adapted quickly — thanks in part to WCU’s hands-on approach. “At West Coast, they do provide simulation for every student. It’s 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,” he said.

Freddy’s motivation came from being a first-generation college student and making his parents proud. “That was my motivation — going into college and being the first grad,” he said.

Looking back, he wished he had started sooner. “I probably would have started the program a long time ago … and I would have got my bachelor’s degree way faster,” Freddy admitted. “But as long as I did it, I still accomplished it. That’s the main goal.”

For future students, Freddy recommends dental hygiene for those who want a career between dental assisting and dentistry. “If you want to get into the dental field like dental hygiene, I would definitely recommend it,” he said. “West Coast does prepare you. It is a rigorous program. They do overprepare you, but that’s a good thing.”

WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.