If you want to be a dental hygienist, the first step is to actually get accepted into a program of study. While this is obvious, it is not as easy as one might think. Dental hygiene is a very competitive field because it is a well paying professional that is rewarding, and there are often hundreds of applicants for only dozens of candidate placements. There are essentially five elements to the admissions process, and each of them is as important as the other so great care and attention should be paid to all of them.
Resume & Transcripts
Everything you have done before admission to any of the dental hygienist programs counts towards admission. Any high school grades or secondary courses you may have taken need to be solid and consistent in performance. Your goal average should be at least a “B” or above to stay competitive. Try to take science classes and other relevant courses as well. This helps you be prepared and show your foresight into your career choice.
Additionally, any positions that you have held, even in high school, can influence your chances. If you volunteered anywhere or worked in an office setting, these are things that may set you apart from a candidate who has never done any kind of practical real world work.
Application
READ THE DIRECTIONS! It is so sad to hear of a candidate who was very qualified but failed to answer the essay question as it was asked or in the wrong format. These are simply details you cannot afford to miss when applying to a dental hygiene program. Attention to detail is actually a skill that you will need as a dental hygienist, and you do not want your first impression here to be sloppy, inappropriate or misinformed.
And if you have a question about the application, please ask it – to a program coordinator, to an admissions office staff member, to a guidance counselor, to anyone. Clear it up before making a careless mistake that could cost you a placement.
Letters of Recommendation
This is often a great opportunity for you to distinguish yourself from the rest of the applicants. Strong letters of recommendation or references can be an excellent way to make an excellent impression. Any teachers for whom you performed well in class and have a strong rapport with are good choices as are any possible dentists who may know of your commitment and passion to the field. Personal references are good, but any specialized references tend to be stronger as they reflect more on you as a professional.
Interview
They say that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. I do not know who they are, but they are correct. An interview is a big deal and you should treat accordingly.
Dress professionally and appropriately. This is not the time to make your individual or political statements through your personal style.
Be prepared with standard questions and answers. Be able to answer “Why do you want to be a dental hygienist?” and other questions like that. Have a relevant, interesting story about yourself that makes you unique, and if you can fit it in, do so. If it is out of place, don’t force it.
Speak with assurance and confidence. You should not be arrogant, but you should present yourself as a candidate with direction, motivation, and commitment to your studies and the field of dentistry.
Ask questions if you have them. Remember, you want them to be a good fit for you as well.
Background Check & Drug Test
This may not be a part of the process for every school, but it goes without saying that you should not fail either of these!
Staying In and Staying Committed
Once in, maintain the grades, work ethic, and positive attitude that got you there in the first place. If you stay focused and directed, you will find yourself in a very rewarding career – professionally, personally, and financially!
