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Jan 2, 2024

Margo’s Journey: From First Graduate to Dental Assistant Success

Margo’s Journey: From First Graduate to Dental Assistant Success

In celebration of our convocation 2023, and the opportunity for us to finally be together and celebrate in person after three years, we asked our graduates to share their Anderson College experience.

Asking, “How has Anderson College changed your life?” prompted over a hundred submissions … this is one of those extraordinary student stories.

We hope this reflection moves you, as it has our Anderson family, and inspires you to ever embrace the career and life you imagine and, truly, deserve.
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I always knew I wanted to go to a postsecondary school, but I had no clue what area of study to focus on. I saw an ad for Anderson College and decided to look into it.

After asking for more information about the Intra Oral Dental Assistant (IODA) program, I received a call from Abby inviting me to come in, talk with her about the program and take a tour around the school. It was the push I needed to decide what I was going to do with the rest of my life. I applied and was accepted into the program. At the time, I knew this was a very in-demand field so I knew it would be a great idea and there was lots of room for furthering my career after graduation.

“After three weeks of placement, I was offered a full-time job as a chair side assistant to the head doctor at my office.”

 

During my time at Anderson, and even after I graduated, Jackie Sage was always there pushing me to do better and supporting me. She sent out extra study material for the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam and was always there to answer any questions. After three weeks of placement, I was offered a full-time job as a chair side assistant to the head doctor at my office. I currently still work there with that doctor and have been accepted into a dental hygiene program!

“Thanks to Anderson College I was the first person in my family to graduate from a postsecondary school.”

 

Thanks to Anderson College I was the first person in my family to graduate from a postsecondary school and the support I received gave me the courage to go back to school and further my career in my field of study. To anyone not sure of where they want to attend school or what they want to do after high school, I always tell them to take a look at the programs offered by Anderson College.

If I could give any advice to people thinking about attending Anderson, I would say “Take the jump and apply; you will not regret the time you spend here, and the staff will do everything in their power to help you succeed.”

Margo F.

If you felt inspired by Margo’s story and are looking to launch a a dental career, you can click to learn more about our Intra Oral Dental Assistant program. Or if you have other interests, you can explore one of our other 30+ leading-edge programs.

When you’re ready to train and embrace the next level of your career, we can help you navigate the steps along the way. Book your virtual appointment with one of our supportive Admissions Advisors today and let’s get you started, shall we?

FAQs About Becoming a Dental Assistant

 

Q1. How did Anderson College help Margo succeed in dental assisting?

Anderson College provided Margo with hands-on training, supportive instructors, and preparation for the National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) exam. This support led her to secure a full-time dental assistant position right after placement and the confidence to continue into a dental hygiene program.

Q2. Is dental assisting a good career in Canada?

Yes! Dental assisting is an in-demand career in Canada, offering strong job security, competitive salaries, and opportunities for growth into roles such as dental hygiene or office management.

Q3. What is the Intra Oral Dental Assistant program at Anderson College?

The Intra Oral Dental Assistant (IODA) program provides students with practical training, clinical placement experience, and preparation for the NDAEB exam. Graduates are ready to begin working as dental assistants immediately after certification.

Q4. Can I build a long-term career as a dental assistant?

Absolutely. Many graduates begin as chairside dental assistants and advance into roles like dental hygienist, treatment coordinator, or office manager. Margo’s journey is an example of how dental assisting can open doors to further career growth.

Q5. Can I build a career path after dental assisting?

Absolutely many graduates advance into dental hygiene, orthodontics, or administrative roles.

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about applying, funding, and life at Anderson College.

How long does it take to complete a program at Anderson College?
Most diploma programs run 24–58 weeks of full-time study, depending on the discipline. Healthcare programs (PSW, Cardiology, MOA, Dental Assistant) typically include a clinical or work placement so you graduate job-ready.
What financial aid options are available?
We accept OSAP (Ontario), Better Jobs Ontario, Windmill Microlending, in-house Alumni and PSW bursaries, and traditional student lines of credit through major banks. Visit our Financial Aid page for the full list and to chat with a Financial Aid Advisor.
Are international students welcome?
Yes. Anderson College is a DLI-approved Career College registered with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Programs marked as PGWP-eligible qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. See our International Students page for visa support details.
How do I apply?
You can start your application online in under 5 minutes or speak with an Admissions Advisor for a guided walkthrough. Begin your application here.
Does Anderson College offer job placement support?
Every program includes Career Services — resume coaching, interview prep, employer connections and lifetime alumni support. Many programs also include a built-in clinical or industry placement so you graduate with real-world experience. Learn more on the Career Services page.

Still have a question? Speak with an Admissions Advisor →

Anderson College — Celebrating 140+ Years

Anderson College is one of Canada's oldest colleges, having opened our first location in 1885. We have trained more than 150,000 students over a 140-year history, and have been an empowering partner for students overcoming career challenges and transitioning to the next phase of their lives.

With ten locations in Ontario, we are recognized for our high-calibre faculty, hands-on, real-life career training and supportive culture. At Anderson College, we are more than our century-old history, our programs and state-of-the-art facilities; we are a team of caring individuals, deeply committed to helping our students become skillful, confident and in-demand employees.

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