Alternative Science Careers

Getting started with becoming a dental hygienist requires dedication to a minimum of two years of training. The person who chooses this profession should be one who is patient and caring. This is a health care field that many people have a natural aversion and fear of. Coaxing a patient into relaxing may be a challenge.

A hygienist has various duties and what those exact duties are depend on the state they will work in. They review medical histories, educate patients on proper brushing, flossing and gum care and discuss what foods affect teeth negatively. They will remove the plaque or tartar on teeth, and clean and polish teeth. Sealants and fluorides may also be applied to prevent cavities.

Hygienists may take x-rays and develop them and access and test the mouth looking for anything abnormal. In some states they can administer anesthetics, place and remove fillings and prepare temporary fillings. They can also periodontal dressings and polish metal restorations.

Private dental offices are where more than 90 percent of hygienists work and half of those work strictly on a part time basis. Jobs in a public health office or a school are usually full time. The dental offices will need one a few times a week, many hygienists travel from office to another. There is no boredom or monotony and the hours are flexible. Part time employees do not typically get benefits but dental care may be offered.

To get proper training requires going to college for a two year or four year degree. Certificate programs also exist. Any program chosen must be accredited and so must the school. The local dentists will state what it is accepted in the state for employment. What degree to get, will depend on the ultimate goal of where a person intends to work. A bachelors or masters degree is required for working in a government agency or a school.

To practice as a hygienist a license is required. Dental Hygienist testing consists of two tests, possibly three. The first is a written test given by the American Dental Association Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. The next is a state board that is a clinical test. The graduating student must get a patient and perform the duties of the job. Their performance is then evaluated. The third possible test will be about legal issues related to the career. Whether or not it is necessary is determined by the state.

A better than average salary can be earned. Starting salary is about $30,000 per year. The median salary after years in the profession is about $60,000. How much is actually paid depends on geographical location, experience and level of training.

This is a career that is considered one of the fastest growing. It is predicted to show a growth of 30 percent through 2016. The beginning salary is expected to increase with the increased demand. With the job growth those graduating to become a dental hygienist can feel secure in finding employment.

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Most people have at least taken a stab at writing a regular resume, but writing a government resume is somewhat different. You can’t just follow the rules of writing a standard resume and assume that it will land you that government job. These days, writing the resume on the Federal resume form is the recognized protocol; it is also called the OF-612 form. Here are some dos and don’ts when it comes to writing a federal resume

Include personal information as requested: Be certain to include your complete contact information, such as your name, address and email, reinstatement eligibility if applicable and job series and dates of previous positions as applicable.

Write school history in chronological order: Unlike standard resumes, you are going to provide your background info and skills in chronological rather than reverse chronological order. So, for education, you’ll want to start with your high school education, and move on up from there.

List any major studied, and include the total credits earned: It might be appealing to use bullet points for these paragraphs, but be careful; while bullet points are great for civilian resumes, they’re less applicable in government job applications.

Be as detailed as possible: Again, while civilian resumes focus on being brief and to the point, federal employers are going to want to know precisely what you’ve done, specifically as it relates to education and experience.

List equivalent experience: There may be times when your education doesn’t exactly fit the qualifications needed for the position, but if you’ve had experience that will qualify you nonetheless, make sure you list it.

There are a few don’ts when it comes to writing your government resume, as well.

Don’t fail to include precise information as it pertains to the job you’re applying to: you can fill in the gaps if you don’t have the necessary education for a specific job by detailing experience, but if specific information is asked for, be sure to include it.

Don’t skimp: write everything to the fullest detail possible.

Don’t make the KSA’s a copy of the resume: Write the KSA as precisely and succinctly as possible.

Federal-Resume.org provides free information about Federal government jobs.

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Landing an internship in college isn’t easy. Once you put forth the effort of securing a spot for yourself, make sure that you do your best while you are there. While a workplace can feel pretty intimidating compared to the classroom environment that you’re used to, don’t let your nerves get the best of you. Interns are mainly in place to observe and help out, so any mistake you make likely won’t be an earth-shattering one. Here are a few ways to make your internship a good one:

1. Take your cues from the people you see around you. The first day of your internship will set the tone for the remainder of your time there. Look around and see how people interact with each other and get a feel for the corporate culture. If it’s a laid back environment and people are pretty comfortable with each other, feel free to do the same. If formality and business-like behavior is the norm, rise to the occasion perform your duties in a similar manner.

2. Remember the manners your mama taught you. Common courtesies never go out of style. Show respect to everyone around you and it won’t go unnoticed. The janitor, doorman, receptionist and CEO all appreciate a warm greeting and a pleasant demeanor.

3. No task is too small for an intern. Granted you’re not majoring in barista science on campus but if you’re asked to make coffee for a meeting; do it. Making a stack of collated presentation booklets may seem menial, but take a moment to look over the material while you’re at the copier. You can learn a lot about business by being the person who makes copies. Interns are brought on board to help out in a myriad of ways, so keep a ‘can do’ attitude at all times.

4. As the internship draws to an end, take what you’ve learned and consider whether or not you’d like to come back for a paid position after graduation. If so, don’t be afraid to let it be known that you are interested. If they liked what they saw in you, they might be willing to wait for you to complete your college education.

Once you’re back on campus (or at home if you go to an online college), be sure to send a thank-you note to your direct supervisor. If there was anyone else who was especially helpful to you during your internship, send them something as well. You can use these people as references later when you are looking for a job, so keep in touch as time passes by.

Julie Clark Robinson is a prolific writer. Her many subjects include Arizona colleges and Delaware colleges which meet students’ full financial need.

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