Leah is currently enrolled in Plaza College’s Allied Health program, completing foundational prerequisites as she prepares to pursue an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene – one step at a time toward a future rooted in patient care.
Until age 16, Leah struggled with dental anxiety, a common experience shared by many patients — studies show that roughly 30–80 % of adults experience some level of worry or fear about going to the dentist (Rank My Dentist). For Leah, routine appointments felt intimidating, and she dreaded treatments she knew were necessary for her oral health. That changed when a dental hygienist named Stephanie helped her work through her fear and showed her what compassionate care could look like.
That encounter not only reshaped Leah’s experience in dental offices but also inspired her to pursue the same path, helping others feel more comfortable and confident in their care.
“Meeting a hygienist who helped me overcome my fear made me realize I wanted to pursue this field and help others do the same. Plaza College’s Allied Health program has given me the perfect foundation to start my journey.”
Leah’s interest in dental hygiene deepened as she progressed through her prerequisite courses. The classes reinforced to her how oral health isn’t isolated — it’s a key part of overall well‑being. This perspective reinforced her desire to educate and care for patients by showing her that strong oral health supports overall health, and that she played a vital role in her patient’s lives.
While Leah has gained extensive knowledge about oral health, she has also discovered a lot about herself. The Allied Health program moves at a fast pace with rigorous coursework, pushing her to develop disciplined study habits to stay on track. Balancing school, a part-time job, and motherhood to a two-year-old was no small challenge, but Leah managed it through careful time management and strong organizational skills. Her dedication to pursuing her dream career has shown her that she can not only meet academic demands but also draw on her resilience to overcome challenges.
Looking ahead, Leah is excited to gain hands-on experience in the Dental Hygiene program and deepen her clinical knowledge. She is also eager to build meaningful relationships with both patients and her classmates, recognizing the value of a supportive cohort as everyone navigates the challenges of the program together.
“No matter what someone is going through at home, having classmates to encourage each other will make a difference for everyone.”
Leah’s journey highlights the rigorous yet supportive environment of Plaza College’s Allied Health program, preparing students to advance with confidence, resilience, and a strong commitment to patient-centered care.
