Mom to Twins Conquers All to Become a Dental Assistant

At Anderson College, We are constantly inspired by the courage of our students. Geral’s journey from being a full-time mom to twins to becoming a certified dental assistant is proof that determination, education, and community support can change lives.
In sharing our stories, we realize we are not alone and are often inspired to recognize, or to find, our own extraordinary courage. We hope the following story moves you, as it has our Anderson family.

What Challenges Did Geral Face?

I’m a mother of twins, and life has not been easy. When I gave birth to them, we were living in a very noisy basement with one small window. I didn’t like the place because it was not healthy for my kids. I wanted my kids to grow up having their own rooms and a place where they could play in a backyard. However, I couldn’t afford a beautiful place like that.

“My kids were home while I was pursuing my online classes. That’s when life got harder. And yet, despite what I faced, I made it to graduation day.”

Later when life got a bit easier, we moved into a rental condo. When the kids turned six years old, I went to school while they were in daycare. COVID-19 struck, daycare got shut down and I lost my part-time job. That’s when life got harder. And yet, despite what I faced, I made it to graduation day.

Why Did Geral Move Provinces?

I then decided to leave the life we were living behind and move to another province, because Toronto is so expensive. We drove two days from Toronto to Alberta, night and day to get there quickly. We stopped at an inn in Winnipeg to sleep but when we checked out and went to leave, we realized all our things on the car roof, all our bags, had been stolen. We had nothing left. Even through loss and uncertainty, Geral focused on her family’s safety and kept moving forward toward her dental assistant dream.

How Did Anderson College Support Her Success?

We finally arrived safely in Alberta, but I had no work license yet, so I became a nanny for a while preparing for my NDAEB written exam and clinical exam. Dr. Ray, Dr. A, Dr. C and Miss Rose of the Dental Assistant team were there to help. I called them and without any hesitation they supported me; they guided me all the way through the process, and I passed.

“Now I’m working as a dental assistant in a dental clinic that has a 5-star rating on Google, here in Sherwood Park, Alberta.”

School taught me a lot and prepared me for interviews. In fact, when I had my interview, one dentist was so impressed, he said, “I think Dental Assistant programs in Toronto are better than what we offer here”. To this, I replied, “No doctor, I think it’s because of how I love to listen, learn about dental assisting, and my luck in having the instructors I did, who were so knowledgeable and patient when teaching us.”

Now I’m working as a dental assistant in a dental clinic that has a 5-star rating on Google, here in Sherwood Park, Alberta. We also got our first house in just a year. For all these things that happened to me and to us, I thank God, my family, and Anderson College for providing the type of quality education, that produced a quality student. I’m so proud I went to Anderson College.

Take the “Dental Professional Career Discovery Quiz”

Her advice for future students is simple, but powerful:

• “If life gets harder, pray harder.”
• “Look for the positive side in all situations.”
• “Don’t give up; just believe you can.”
• “A positive mind attracts positive things.”

Geral J. E.

To learn more about our Intra Oral Dental Assistant program or our 30+ leading-edge programs to help you take life to the next level of success, book a virtual appointment with our Admissions Team today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q1: How long does it take to become a dental assistant in Canada?

Most dental assistant programs take 8–12 months to complete. After graduation, students need to pass the NDAEB written and clinical exams to become fully licensed.

Q2: Do I need certification to work as a dental assistant?

Yes. In provinces like Ontario and Alberta, certification through the NDAEB is required. This ensures graduates meet national standards in dental assisting skills.

Q3: Can I balance family life while studying?

Yes, you can balance family life while studying. With flexible programs, good time management, and supportive instructors, many students successfully manage both.

Q4: What career options exist after graduation?

Graduates may work in general dental practices, orthodontic or prosthodontic clinics, public health settings, or even transition into teaching, dental sales, or office administration.

Q5: How do I start my dental assistant journey?

Begin by exploring accredited programs such as Anderson’s Intra Oral Dental Assistant program. Then, book a virtual appointment with admissions, enroll, and prepare for your NDAEB exams.