Thalia R.

Before enrolling, I was working in the restaurant industry as a bartender and server. I'd always been interested in the dental field, but I wasn't sure what the best path was. My cousin had completed the dental assisting program and shared her experience with me, which gave me the confidence to look into it myself. After learning more, I realized it was a practical, career-focused alternative to spending years in traditional college, and it felt like the right fit for me.

Hearing firsthand about the program from my cousin made a big difference. She gave me advice on what to expect and encouraged me to enroll. I liked that the program offered a direct path into a career I was genuinely interested in, without the time and expense of a traditional four-year degree.

Like many students, paying for school was a concern. Having the option to make a down payment and pay the remaining balance through affordable monthly payments made it much more manageable. I was also fortunate to receive additional tuition assistance, which helped reduce the financial burden and made enrolling possible.

After graduating, I began working as a dental assistant and most recently worked in a pediatric dental office, which I really enjoyed. The program allowed me to turn an interest I'd had for years into a real career. I've recently taken a temporary break due to a family loss, but I look forward to continuing my career in the dental field.

At the time of the interview, my earnings were similar to what I made in the restaurant industry. I haven't yet earned my Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) certification — that's the next step, and it will open the door to higher-paying opportunities as I continue to advance.