Students who are looking into advancing their education through postsecondary programs, but are unsure which profession is best for them, can benefit from college-based events. These opportunities allow interested individuals to learn about degrees they are considering, and to participate in hands-on programs that show them what these careers are like in the real world.
For example, the University of New England (UNE) recently invited high school students from across the state to its first annual Dental Careers Exploration Camp. School officials, who have already begun planning the 2012 launch of the UNE dental college, created this opportunity to encourage young people to consider careers in dentistry, according to The Portland Press Herald.
During the three-day camp, participants were partnered with school faculty and area dental care specialists who allowed the students to practice on patient simulators. Students had the chance to do several procedures, including fillings, extractions, x-rays and medication administration.
Kneka Smith, associate dean of the dental college planning committee, told the news source that "we want the students to recognize that it's not just about [fixing] a tooth." She added that "it's about the whole patient, and that patient has a variety of healthcare needs."
Over the next eight years, government statistics suggest that the employment of dentists is projected to increase by 16 percent, and an estimated 22,100 new jobs will be created nationwide.
