by Grace A. Curcuru DDS
The Michigan Dental Foundation proudly presents Julie Burns as a recipient of the 2007-2008 Michigan Dental Foundation Robert D. Mitus Scholarship Award.
Burns, from Grand Rapids, is a senior dental hygiene student at Grand Rapids Community College. I had the opportunity to chat with the recipient and would like to shares some of his thoughts and inspirations regarding dentistry:
4. Why did you want to become a dental professional?
I chose dental hygiene as my course of study for a few reasons. I thought it would be a great "mom" job. I like the flexible hours and the salary of a hygienist. I realized that a job in the medical field would be reliable. Also, I like teeth and everything dental hygiene entails, from educating the patients on tooth brushing to polishing their teeth.
5. Who inspired/mentored you along the way?
Initially, my own hygienist inspired me to seek out dental hygiene. I knew she loved her job and I thought to myself, “I can do this!” Since I’ve started school, my husband Doug has been my biggest cheerleader by far, and I could not have done it without his encouragement and support.
6. What is the best advice you have been given while in the pursuit of your career?
Give 100 percent. You will get out of it what you put into it.
7. What advice can you give to students thinking about pursuing a career in dental hygiene?
The dental hygiene curriculum can be challenging. Try not to get overwhelmed, and take one day at a time.
8. What do you enjoy the most about dental hygiene?
I enjoy helping others and to possibly change someone’s health for the better, their self-esteem, their smile … it can be so rewarding.
9. Can you share a story about dental school, which made you realize that dentistry was the right profession for you?
Once I started seeing patients, I knew that this was the profession for me.
10. How has winning the Michigan Dental Foundation Scholarship helped you?
Winning this scholarship helps me tremendously with board fees.
11. Where do you see yourself in six months after graduation?
I hope to be working full time. I may move to the other side of the state.
12. Where do you see yourself in three to 10 years after graduation?
I hope to be working full-time or continuing my education to become an instructor.
13. Have you attended any local, state or national dental meetings?
I have attended SADHA day in Lansing.
14. Do you see yourself participating in national, state or local level organized dentistry, or serving on a committee? If so which one interests you?
Dentistry is still relatively new to me. I will have to figure out how I can best serve once I’ve been in the field for a while.
15. What do you like to do beyond dentistry? Any hobbies, talents, etc.?
I am enjoying every minute of watching my 2-year-old daughter Carly grow up. I like sports, traveling, and roller coasters!
Thank you for a glimpse into the life of a Michigan Dental Foundation Robert D. Mitus Scholarship recipient. Your hard work and efforts are clearly demonstrated. You will be an asset to the dental profession.
The Michigan Dental Foundation awards scholarships annually to dental, dental hygiene and dental assisting students. We believe that the people of Michigan deserve exceptional oral health professionals. All scholarships are given to Michigan residents attending Michigan universities and colleges. The Michigan Dental Foundation is devoted to becoming the philanthropic leader of the oral health community in order to fund student scholarships, provide oral health initiatives and access to care.
Smiling futures start here!