by Grace A. Curcuru, D.D.S.
The Michigan Dental Foundation proudly presents Patricia Sawyer as a recipient of the 2007-2008 Michigan Dental Foundation Robert D. Mitus Scholarship Award.
Sawyer, from Holt, Mich., is a senior dental hygiene student at Lansing Community College. I had the opportunity to chat with the recipient and would like to shares some of her thoughts and inspirations regarding dentistry:
1. Why did you want to become a dental professional?
I have always loved going to the dentist and had a wonderful hygienist. Visiting them made me think that it would be a great job. One experience in particular in another office was not as pleasant and that is actually why I wanted to become a hygienist. I wanted to make going to the dentist as enjoyable for others as it usually was for me.
2. Who inspired/mentored you along the way?
Wow … who inspired and mentored me? In 2003 I started working in Dr. Robert Currier’s office. I started working at the front desk where Geri and Jody showed me the ropes of insurance and all the joys of front desk duties. About a year later I moved back to assist chairside. Dr. Currier never let an opportunity pass by to show me something new, quiz me on information for an upcoming test or even answer what I’m sure were sometimes "stupid" questions.
The hygienists -- Patty, Corinne, Jayne, Jo and Wendy -- have all been so encouraging and have also taken advantage of every opportunity to teach. I think that is really what they all wanted to be. The same time I went back to assist Rita and she has given words of encouragement more than once when I’ve needed them.
My mom also has inspired me to go after what I want. She thinks I can do anything. She is also a mom so I’m sure she would be proud of me even if all I ever did was put my shoes on the right feet. There are days when I feel like I can do anything because of her.
Last but not least, my husband, Danny. He has been an inspiration, which I cannot explain. He’s provided support that everyone should have, even during finals week, which is not always the prettiest time. In all seriousness, he has truly been a rock and I would not have made it this far with out him.
3. What is the best advice you have been given while in the pursuit of your career?
I’m not sure what the best advice is but I guess the encouragement that I can do it has probably been the most helpful.
4. What advice can you give to students thinking about pursuing a career in dental hygiene?
I’m not really the best with advice but I would tell someone pursuing a dental career to remember that the bottom line is people. That’s the reason we do this. I would also let them know that they can do it with a little determination.
5. What do you enjoy the most about dental hygiene?
I enjoy the people.
6. Can you share a story about dental school, which made you realize that dentistry was the right profession for you?
We had Give Kids a Smile Day at school last year and the whole experience impacted me more than I expected. Those kids were so excited.
10. How has winning the Michigan Dental Foundation Scholarship helped you?
This scholarship has helped me to pay for the ever-looming board exam.
11. Where do you see yourself in six months after graduation?
Six months after graduation I hope to be practicing in Michigan close to family.
12. Where do you see yourself in three to 10 years after graduation?
My goal three to 10 years after graduation is to be working in an established practice and continuing to grow as a hygienist.
13. Have you attended any local, state or national dental meetings, etc.?
I have attended a local dental meeting.
14. If so, what did you enjoy about attending the meeting?
I liked the fact that education and change doesn’t stop once you’ve graduated, and that as a whole, dentistry is always striving to understand more and improve.
15. What do you like to do beyond dentistry? Hobbies, talents, etc.?
Beyond dentistry I love to sing and am involved in my church’s worship department. As far as hobbies I think once I’m done with school I would love to have one. My husband says that would make me much easier to shop for.
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!