Mindset matters for new grads
As a new faculty member for dental hygiene students, Annie Walters has an insider view of their excitement about joining our profession. But I used to tell students that "school actually begins the day you graduate" because all of a sudden you don't have anyone standing over your shoulder making sure you're doing everything right.
Annie strives to assure them that they know what they're doing and are ready for their own op. While it can be scary to graduate, she builds confidence in their skills. She reminds them that the profession is one of constant learning, and to give themselves grace as they start out.
Keeping in touch, at least for a while, and building a professional network is a good way for new graduates to start in their careers.
Hear what else we have to offer new graduates. And welcome to dental hygiene!
About the podcast
RDH Magazine Podcast is the community of voices you love from RDH magazine, brought to your podcast feed every week. You can expect to gain education and have the RDH magazine community in your ears to complement the content you enjoy online and in print each month.
About the Author
Annie Walters, MS, RDH
Annie Walters, MSDH, RDH, has extensive experience as an oral health-care provider. She has spent time caring for individuals in Guatemala and Indian Health Service sites and is passionate about advancing access to care for individuals with specialized health care needs. She is a published author and is trained in Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy. Annie received her graduate degree from the University of New Mexico and currently serves as an assistant clinical professor at Northern Arizona University. Reach her at [email protected].
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH
Chief Editor, RDH magazine
Jackie Sanders, MBA, RDH, is a respected dental industry leader with more than 40 years of experience in dental hygiene, marketing, and professional relations. As chief editor of RDH, she is dedicated to advancing the dental profession through education, innovation, and collaboration. Prior to this role, she served as manager of professional relations and communications for Sunstar/GUM, building strong connections with industry associations, educational institutions, and dental professionals nationwide. Jackie has also contributed her expertise through committee service with organizations including the American Dental Education Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.