I heard about STI from my dad who works at Southeastern. During my senior year of high school, I was very lost and had no idea what I wanted to do after graduation. Going to a big college and spending crazy money (all while trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life) didn’t seem right for me. When I first heard about STI I didn’t know what to think. But after my interview with Mr. Degan I decided to give it a try! Going into school I had no clue about the dental world and was very nervous. Dr. Hassan assured me that with lots of hard work and studying I could do it! Those nine months were crazy and there were times where I didn’t think I was going to make it but as they called my name at graduation and I walked across the gym I felt a huge wave of accomplishment. I wouldn’t have the opportunities I have today if it weren’t for everyone at STI. The reason I chose STI over other Dental Assisting programs is because they are an accredited school. This means that the bar is set high to reach expectations set by the state and is reevaluated each year. The class sizes are also smaller than most schools allowing for more one on one learning experiences. My biggest motivators were definitely all the instructors. They came in every day excited to teach and always pushed my classmates and I to do our best – not only with school work but chairside as well. What I like most about STI is the hands-on learning. We were able to learn about something in the classroom and then actually perform the task right there in the lab. I was also able to graduate as an Expanded Functions Dental Assistant. This means that as an assistant I’m allowed to perform more tasks than most. Five years from now, I hope to grow further in the dental field and graduate from Dental Hygiene school. During my year at STI, I was lucky enough to intern for Tufts and was hired right after graduation. I am thankful for this opportunity and see myself working here for a long time! Cristina assists with job placement after graduation which is very helpful! I would tell the students considering STI to go for it! They have intense programs so work hard and in the end it will be worth it.
Stormy Wood – Class of 2016
