The deadline to apply for KCC’s Dental Hygiene Program beginning the Fall 2024 semester is Friday, March 1! See details, application materials and more at kellogg.edu/dental-hygiene-admissions.
Kellogg Community College Dental Hygiene student Yuliana Magana, 28, graduated from Colonial Forge High School in Stafford, Virginia, and moved to Battle Creek specifically to attend KCC’s Dental Hygiene Program.
Magana, who graduates from the program this spring, is a student worker in the Center for Student Success and won the coveted Level Up Award at the Outstanding Bruin Awards in 2023, which recognizes a student employee at KCC who has demonstrated significant personal growth while excelling in their job at the College. She’s also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Student American Dental Hygienists Association.
Why did you choose to study Dental Hygiene?
The reason I chose Dental Hygiene is because it is my passion to educate patients. It’s important for all patients to know about the connection between their systemic health and their oral health. I also wanted to help patients with educating them how to take care of their oral health. Most patients don’t know how poor dental hygiene can lead to unexpected health consequences/diseases. My ability to speak Spanish has helped the Spanish-speaking community to be more aware of the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums. Many patients who come to the clinic are unaware of how important it is to have a healthy oral health.
Why did you choose to study Dental Hygiene specifically at KCC?
I chose to study Dental Hygiene specifically at KCC, because KCC gave me the opportunity to be accepted into the Dental Hygiene Program. I also applied at KCC because I had heard many positive comments about the program. Coming from Virginia and having previous Dental Hygiene programs talk so well about the program pushed me to apply at KCC.
What’s been your favorite part of your time at KCC, and why?
My favorite part of my time in KCC has been how welcoming everyone has been. I was afraid when I first moved to Battle Creek to attend KCC, because I didn’t know anyone. I genuinely love all my peers, professors and colleagues. KCC has not only been the college I’m attending but also my employer. I enjoy every single time I’m on campus.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned at KCC?
The most interesting thing I’ve learned at KCC would have to be every class that has been related to the oral cavity/health. I truly am passionate about learning in-depth about oral health/cavity. My professors have made it easy and fun to learn material and prepare us for our board examinations.
What is your goal for after you graduate from KCC? What do you hope to do for a career?
After I graduate KCC, I plan to attend the University of Michigan and obtain my bachelor’s and master’s degree in Dental Hygiene. I plan to work and help the community with educating how they can improve their oral dental hygiene. As a professional in Dental Hygiene, I hope I can make a difference in many patients’ lives.
What advice do you have for current or future KCC students?
The advice I have for current or future student at KCC is, if you have a question or concern reach out to your professors. I believe all the professors at KCC have the best interest for their students and want every student to succeed. If you need extra help the Center of Student of Success is a great tool to use as well.
Anything else you’d like to say?
Thank you to KCC for accepting me into the Dental Hygiene Program. I will be graduating May 2024. I will be graduating very grateful to everyone I have encountered at KCC these past two years.
Learn more about the KCC Dental Hygiene Program at kellogg.edu/dental.