(HARLINGEN, Texas) – After working as a dental hygienist for 14 years, Texas State Technical College alumna Jessica Myers came back to her alma mater a year ago to bring her knowledge and experience to the next generation of dental hygiene professionals.
She is adjusting to the career differences but enjoying every minute of it.
“It was a big change,” she said. “A dental hygiene instructor has many responsibilities. There are so many components that make a great hygienist. Instructors need to be well-versed in a variety of subjects to ensure students are learning at an optimal level.”
Myers knew she wanted a job in health care at an early age and came across dental hygiene after learning from somebody in the profession.
“I love working and interacting with people,” she said. “I researched many programs and became fascinated with dental hygiene after shadowing a dental hygienist for a day. We do much more than clean teeth.”
The dedication she has for her role as an instructor is brought on by the fact that she knows firsthand how well prepared TSTC students are after finishing the program.
“The program at TSTC is approved and accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, which ensures that we meet the highest quality standards for dental hygiene education,” she said. “Our curriculum is designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge they require while out in practice.”
Fellow Dental Hygiene instructor Victoria Martin knows that Myers’ passion to pay it forward is beneficial for students.
“She worked in the profession for so long and now wants to give back,” she said. “She is inspiring students to become part of the profession.”
When asked what advice she would give to those who are considering a career in dental hygiene, Myers said that the benefits are worth the time and effort put into the program.
“This program is very challenging, yet it is also very rewarding,” she said. “Students who are willing to accept the challenge and give 100 percent of their time, effort and ability will succeed.”
To learn more about TSTC’s Dental Hygiene program, visit https://www.tstc.edu/programs/dentalhygiene.
