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Apr 15, 2025

Single Mom Achieves Her Dental Assisting Career Dream!

Single Mom Achieves Her Dental Assisting Career Dream!

Meet Haylie: A Story of Determination and Growth

Haylie, a single mom determined to provide her children with a better life, is an inspiration to us all. Juggling family life and school can be exceedingly difficult, that’s why a flexible schedule to accommodate life and studies and a supportive community are essential. After applying herself to her training and keeping her eye on the possibilities for she and her family, Haylie is now a graduate and launched into her dental assisting career.

We’re so proud of what she has accomplished, and know you’ll want to read below to see just how she did it.
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Each year, in the spirit of celebrating the diverse and powerful experiences of our students, we run a story contest. Again in 2024, the response was awe inspiring, with over 150 submissions.

We asked, “How has Anderson College changed your life?” … 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. Rest assured we are here to help you navigate each step along the way to success.
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Dental Assisting Dream Realized – A Bright Future for Haylie and Her Children

 

My name is Haylie, and I’m a single mom of two young kids. I decided to go back to school as an adult because I wanted a career that would sustain me and my children for the future. As a single mom with failed career attempts in the past and not feeling sure of where I belong and how to achieve my goals, I found Anderson College. I chose to enroll in the Intra Oral Dental Assistant Level I and II program at a college that is willing to work with my busy schedule and accommodate my needs as an individual and a mother.

“I chose to enroll in the Intra Oral Dental Assistant Level I and II program at a college that is willing to work with my busy schedule and accommodate my needs as an individual and a mother.”

 

Anderson College has been extremely supportive, with a staff full of support, professors who genuinely care, and who are involved and work with you to ensure you understand the materials. The friendly front desk receptionist greets you with a smile every day, and professors check in with you, accommodate your learning styles, and take the extra time to support you with your courses and day-to-day life. This has been a total change from regular colleges, and a fantastic one at that.

“Thanks to Anderson College, I will be a graduate in February 2025 and a single mother with a career that I will be able to provide for my family on my own.”

 

Thanks to Anderson College, I will be a graduate in February 2025 and a single mother with a career that I will be able to provide for my family on my own. I am unbelievably thankful for Anderson College and everything it has offered me and the journey it has given me.

Haylie E.

If you felt inspired by Haylie’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?

Frequently Asked Questions- FAQ’s

How long does the Dental Assistant program take?

Most students finish in under a year. The program is flexible to fit different schedules.

Can single parents balance school and family?

Yes, Single parents can balance school and family, but it does take planning, flexibility, and support. Many single parents successfully complete their education while raising children.

What’s the difference between Level I and II Dental Assistants?

Level I covers chairside help, equipment sterilization, and basic x-rays. Level II expands on this with extra duties such as coronal polishing, advanced radiography, and applying dental sealants.

Which type of dental assistant makes the most money?

Level II Dental Assistants usually earn the highest pay because they can perform expanded duties like X-rays and impressions.

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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