Dentistry can be a daunting profession, with years of education and numerous certifications to obtain before gaining hands-on experience. The newly established Pre-Dental Club at Moorpark College is dedicated to helping students develop the skills necessary to become successful dentists early in their careers.
The Pre-Dental Club, founded by Chloe Lin, a second-year biology major at Moorpark College, is the first dental-related club on campus. During their monthly meetings, club members will participate in engaging workshops focused on a specific area or skill necessary to become a successful dentist.
Their first meeting occurred on Jan. 31, 2024, in room LM 124. After getting to know each other, club members dove straight into the basics of being a dental assistant. This workshop covered the tools dental assistants are responsible for handing the dentist and the importance of ensuring the patient’s comfort during their appointment.
While studying computer science in her first year at Moorpark College, Lin began to question her passion for the major. As a result, she decided to explore other career opportunities and remembered her interest in becoming a doctor. In the summer of 2023, Lin interned under Dr. Douglas P. Williams, an orthodontist in Thousand Oaks. This experience revealed her passion for dentistry, and upon returning to campus,
Lin was determined to share this passion with other students. She hoped to provide them with the necessary tools and resources to achieve their goals.
“You are the patient’s advocate,” Lin explained. “If the patient feels that you are unorganized or unfriendly, they will be uncomfortable. So, we aim to help our club members go into their first internship or job already knowing what is expected of them.”
The club plans to hold a seminar later in the semester where members can vote for which dental specialist they would like to invite as a special guest. The chosen specialist will participate in a club meeting over Zoom where members can ask questions and gain insights from a professional.
“We want to make it fun and engage our members in unique ways,” Lin said. “We plan to host a jewelry-making workshop to practice hand-eye coordination exercises. Fun, but valuable, as dentists are very reliant on their dexterity.”
Alongside Lin is Vice President Persephone Vinolus, a student at Moorpark College and dental assistant at North Star Pediatrics in Thousand Oaks. Vinolus’ direct industry connections allow her to serve as a mentor and provide insightful assistance to club members.
“I wanted to share the knowledge I gained from my job and learn from other members so that we can all succeed on our journey in dentistry,” said Vinolus.
The club plans to arrange regular field trips to North Star Pediatrics for its members. The aim is to allow students to shadow dental assistants and gain a better understanding of the industry. During these visits, participants will be taken on a tour of the dentist’s office, learn about and use tools required on the job, and observe Vinolus’ daily routine as a dental assistant.
“When I first started my path in dentistry, I was unsure of how I would fit in socially,” said Justin Nghiem, a first-year biology major at Moorpark College. “The Pre-Dental club has such welcoming members, I’m very glad that I get to be a part of this community.”
Interested students can find more information about the Pre-Dental Club via the club’s Instagram or by inquiring at the club email at [email protected].
