June 4, 2010 - Douglas valedictorian looks new career in the teeth

Valedictorian Sarah Tarves's time at Douglas College was like pulling teeth. But for a student of the Dental Assisting Program, that's a good thing.

"I chose this field because I like working with my hands and really enjoy working with people, said the native of Halfmoon Bay, who graduated June 3. "I could not be stuck behind a desk all day long."

Tarves chose Douglas on the advice of a family friend who had gone through the same program.

"She informed me that Douglas Certified Dental Assistants were highly sought after and that the program had some of the highest standards among CDA programs."

Once she was in, Tarves threw herself into the often grueling 10-month program.

"Sarah embraced learning and consistently achieved top grades," says Dental Assisting Program coordinator Debbie McCloy. "After spending 32 hours a week in class and clinic, she would research extra related health topics to ensure she was prepared to give her patients the best possible care,"

That dedication helped Tarves achieve the impressive feat of winning both the Academic Achievement Award and the Clinical Achievement Award this year.

"Sarah is a highly organized and motivated individual who sets high standards for herself and continually challenges herself to improve," says McCloy.

Tarves, for her part, is confident her hard work will pay off in the long run.

"The best thing is knowing that, when I graduate, I can get a career rather than just a job."