Career advancement is a way I continue to stay passionate about my work!

Describe your educational journey                                                                                                                   

I completed dental hygiene school at Wichita State University in May of 2010. I was in the last class offering an associate degree. I went on to finish my Bachelor Degree online from WSU in 2012.  In 2017, I completed a Master’s of Professional Studies, emphasis in Public Health and Admin, and a Grant Writing Certificate from Fort Hays State University. 

What made you decide to get your BSDH?   

I wanted to have a Bachelor degree for myself. I value education and understanding my profession so I can offer the best treatment to patients and also the best information to colleagues and other health professionals I work with.

Describe your current employment.                                                                                                                   

I manage the Children’s Dental Clinic at the Sedgwick County Health Department and have worked there since 2018.

What other activities (RDH related) are you involved with outside of your current job?                           

I helped plan Kansas Mission of Mercy 2021 this year which treated 599 patients and donated over $750,000 worth of dental care.  I have given continuing education for Ethics to Kansas Dental Hygienists' Association members, and worked with other area organizations to increase dental treatment options for their clients.  I have also taught in the dental hygiene clinic at WSU and was the program director for an area dental assisting program. 

Who had the greatest influence on your education and/or career path?   

I have always been self-motivated and have wanted to earn a master’s degree. I never thought it would be in Public Health! I wanted to be a lawyer from a young age and thought I would grow up to be a lawyer. In high school my friend worked in a dental office and asked if I wanted to work there also. I soon became a dental assistant and continued the path I am currently on. (Which is interesting because I am not a good dental patient at all!)  I use my working knowledge of high dental anxiety to help my patients work through their fears and anxiety to help them live healthier lives. 

How was the transition from clinical practice to educator?                                                                         

I have always loved to teach and help others meet and exceed their potential to gain knowledge. It was an easy transition for me because I spent many years working with patients to help motivate and educate them on their oral health and oral health needs. I used those tools to motivate students and help them learn new ways to meet their goals. 

What advice would you give to other RDHs seeking to advance their careers?                                         

I would tell anyone to follow their passion. If career advancement is one of their goals, find someone who is in the career field they are looking into and research the steps needed to accomplish their goals. The sooner the journey starts, the sooner the goal is achieved, and the work can begin.

Are you ready to advance your career?  Visit WSU BSDH Degree Completion Program