High school students are gaining practical experience and learning essential dental skills at CVCC, preparing them for careers in the growing healthcare industry.
The Dental Assisting program is one of the many opportunities CVCC offers for students to gain hands-on experience and prepare for their futures. Among those currently enrolled are Sophia Stencel, Holly Gayner and Taylor Bartholomew— three students with ambitions and a passion for learning.
Juniors Sophia Stencel and Holly Gayner are the only students from Revere High school who attend the dental program at CVCC. Taylor Bartholomew, from Brecksville, also participates in the dental program. These students split their time between CVCC and their home schools. Each morning, they head to CVCC to spend time learning the basics of dental assisting. In the afternoon, they return to their respective schools to complete their academic coursework. This arrangement allows students to explore career-focused training while maintaining their traditional high school education.
The Dental Assisting program at CVCC provides students with foundational skills in dental care, patient interaction and office management. It is an opportunity for students to get a head start in their careers. From learning how to sterilize instruments to understanding the basics of dental anatomy, students gain real-world knowledge that will prepare them for certification exams and entry-level positions in dental practices.
Students utilize dental tools and practice procedures in a simulated setting. CVCC’s Dental Assisting program focuses on hands-on learning. Students not only read about dental tools and procedures—they get to work with them in a cutting-edge lab environment. This fully equipped space simulates the conditions of a real dental practice, giving students the chance to apply what they have learned in a practical setting.
Stencel, Gayner and Bartholomew agree that the best part of the program is the hands-on experience. In CVCC’s dental lab, they practice taking impressions, assisting in mock procedures and using tools commonly found in dental offices. The students also learn essential skills, like communication and teamwork, which are critical for patient care.
“It’s so rewarding to actually work with the tools and see how everything fits together in a dental office. It’s not just reading about it either, we get to do it ourselves,” Stencel said.
Gayner agrees, adding that the practice sessions help her feel more prepared and comfortable, “I’ve learned all of the teeth and how to set up a dental tray,” she said.
Bartholomew finds the training invaluable and a necessary part of the program.
“I’m learning skills that I can use right away in the real world. We focus on things like preparing materials and making sure everything is ready for patient care,” she said.
The program not only teaches the technical skills required for dental assisting but also prepares students to work effectively in professional environments. From understanding the importance of patient comfort to keeping treatment areas clean and organized, CVCC ensures students are ready for the responsibilities they will face in the workplace. For Bartholomew, learning how to maintain a safe and efficient environment has been one of the most valuable parts of the program.
“It’s the kind of attention to detail that makes everything run smoothly in a dental office,”
Stencel believes these lessons will give her an advantage as she moves forward.
“Even though we’re just learning the basics right now, I feel like I’m gaining confidence in my abilities,” she said.
While managing both career training and high school classes can be demanding, Stencil, Gayner and Bartholomew agree that the experience is worth the effort. They find the dual schedule helps them stay organized and focused.
“It’s a nice balance between learning hands-on skills in the morning and doing academic work in the afternoon,” Gayner said.
“Starting my day at CVCC gives me a sense of accomplishment. It’s nice knowing I’m working towards something that will help me after high school.” Stencel said.
By focusing on the basics of dental assisting, CVCC’s program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to enter the workforce or continue their education in the healthcare field. For these students, the program is an investment in their futures, providing not just training but also confidence in their abilities.
Whether they choose to work immediately after high school or pursue further education, students leave CVCC with the practical skills they need to succeed. The Dental Assisting program is a stepping stone that allows students like Stencel, Gayner, and Bartholomew to explore their interests and set goals for the next stage of their lives. With its emphasis on career readiness and real-world experience, CVCC continues to empower students to build bright futures.
