In every field, it seems to be hard to get that first job and get your foot in the door. However, with the correct training, attitude, and some hard work, it is certainly very attainable. One of the things that continues to become more and more true is that most careers require some sort of education and experience. However, maybe the idea of going to a college for four years and taking a bunch of “general education” classes that don’t apply to your field doesn’t sound worthwhile to you. Luckily, that is not the only option out there!
At Ross, there are multiple career fields that you can receive hands-on, intensive training in without having to study things that don’t apply to your future career. For example, maybe you have decided that you want to become a dental assistant. An excellent career choice, dental assistants work hard and directly with patients, helping them to increase their confidence and overall health. The Ross Dental Assistant program can be completed in just 36 weeks if you attend four days per week schedule or in only 30 weeks if you enroll in the five days per week schedule.
An education has become more necessary in the recent years, and the dental assisting field is no different. However, in less than nine months, you can finish your dental assistant training and get out there to use your skills in the field! If you enjoy working with people and helping them to improve their health and confidence, dental assisting may be a perfect choice for you!
Here are some tips to use as you look to get hired as a dental assistant:
Pursue Dental Assistant Education
As we’ve already mentioned, having an education in your field is very important. Oftentimes dental assisting positions require experience or skill sets that you just won’t have unless you have gone through a dental assistant training program. Some of the things you will learn in dental assistant school are things that you just won’t learn otherwise like how to sterilize dental equipment, the anatomy of the jaw, teeth, and gums, and how to assist during dental procedures.
Be Positive and Determined
As with any career choice, you can’t give up at the first sign of potential failure. At Ross, we offer an externship experience following your classroom time that gives you a perfect place to express this positive attitude and determination. Prove that you are willing to work hard, be thorough, and stay positive. Also be willing to continue learning and growing as a professional. Practicing these things will speak volumes to your externship coordinator or employer and co-workers.
Get Experience & Build a Professional Network
As we mentioned, many offices won’t hire a dental assistant without experience. This can seem like a vicious cycle considering you have to get hired to gain that valuable experience. However, at Ross, our externship experience can be the perfect way to get you that experience as well as build valuable relationships with others in the field. Even if you aren’t offered a position at the conclusion of your externship experience, often you will have built powerful connections with other healthcare professionals and maybe will even gain a recommendation or reference for another career opportunity.
Get Certified
In all career fields, it’s important to strive for the highest levels of professionalism and knowledge about your field. Likewise, as a dental assistant, you have the opportunity to pursue certification. Achieving your state licensure, as a Registered Dental Assistant for example, speaks volumes of your commitment to your career as a dental assistant and can be very important to a potential employer.
Interested in pursuing education for your dental assistant career goals? Visit the Ross Dental Assistant program page to find out more!