We’re all challenged with obstacles and obligations that distract and delay us from reaching our goals. These challenges make the human journey one of a kind. Challenges can be viewed as life’s essential gifts to build resilience and determination. Sometimes we require the support of others to help us take the next step, or even the first step.
As an older sibling in a large family, I’ve always been inclined to support and teach others. The seeds for helping others were planted early in my life, and I’ve fostered their growth as I developed into a leader in my field.
Dental hygiene school was one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done. Earning the title of RDH sparked my desire to help others achieve what I had. I firmly believe it’s important to support others when you reach a goal. There’s no secret to success, just hard work and commitment to the difficult things. It made sense to me to help others reach their educational goals.
Teaching others to be exceptional
I knew I wanted to be an educator and teach others how to be exceptional clinicians. As I moved from clinical to education, I realized the needs of students were much bigger than just teaching them what they needed to know to pass an exam. Students needed everything I had to give, and I was ready to meet them where they needed me to be.
My intentions evolved to help students become more than they imagined. I learned that students need a mentor, someone who believes in them, a coach who can guide them and help them develop their skills and flex their minds. They need a teacher who can develop methods to help them learn challenging content in a fun and interactive way.
Helping students identify obstacles, remove the barriers, and obtain the necessary tools to be successful in achieving their goals is what brings me joy and purpose. It’s what I’m passionate about and it motivates me every day.
Starting small, I created innovative activities and fun games to help students immerse themselves into the material. Great enjoyment came from watching them discover and develop understanding from my creations. This made me so happy that I couldn’t help but continue to build on these creations.
During COVID, my students had challenges finding tutors. I decided to create a tutor-style podcast, “The Happy Flosser RDH,” to help students no matter where they’re located. To my surprise, I’ve reached people in more than 80 countries, helping students learn new things and supporting them on their journey.
I shared my podcast notes and developed study sheets, dental poems, and activities to support each type of learner in a dental hygiene program. I wanted my joy to be sprinkled all over the world through my creations.
When I reflect on how I’ve impacted my community, I’ve discovered that dreams happen with that first step and staying committed to the process. Wisdom is developed by surrounding yourself with those you want to be like, who have an open mind and a ton of curiosity.
Passion is discovered through being your authentic self in all areas and staying committed to what challenges you, as well as pushing yourself into uncomfortable zones of growth. Joy comes from within and develops by discovering your value and making a difference in the lives of others. Making an impact on your community should be treasured.
Editor's note: This article appeared in the March 2025 print edition of RDH magazine. Dental hygienists in North America are eligible for a complimentary print subscription. Sign up here.
