Student Spotlight

As the dental assisting program at Central Oregon Community College progresses through the fall 2025 cohort, one student's journey stands out as a testament to perseverance and ambition. Ms Brisa Ramirez was raised in a predominantly Spanish-speaking family, she was motivated to pursue dental assisting after a childhood visit to a pediatric dentist, where a Spanish-speaking dental assistant facilitated communication between her mother and the staff. This experience fueled her passion to be a similar link for others seeking dental care.

At first, Ms. Ramirez struggled with self-doubt, but she overcame her fears through positive affirmations and took the important step of enrolling in the program. Known as a "people person," she excels at building connections with both patients and colleagues. She is supported by a strong network, especially her mother, who has always been her biggest champion. Her family has been exceptionally supportive, with her mother standing out as her most significant advocate. Whether cooking meals after long study sessions or providing encouragement during tough times, her mother's unwavering pride and motivation have been invaluable to her success.

The dynamic nature of dental assisting appeals to her, as each day brings new challenges. A significant achievement for her has been being recognized as a standout student by her instructor, Lynn Murray. She aspires to become a pediatric dental assistant or hygienist, aiming to create a welcoming environment for young patients. Her personal experiences working with children with special needs, particularly her older sister who has Down syndrome, have enriched her skill set. She has learned techniques to de-escalate situations and navigate challenges with empathy and patience, all with the goal of alleviating stress during dental appointments for everyone involved.

Ms Ramirez offers advice to prospective dental assistants to “do it even if you are scared” and embrace the journey, highlighting the rewarding nature of the field. The Oregon Dental Assistants Association (ODAA) plays a crucial role in her development, offering updates and networking opportunities.

As Ms Ramirez looks forward to her future, this dedicated student exemplifies resilience and a commitment to making a difference in the community she serves.

The dental community wholeheartedly celebrates its diverse people, being a constant source of inspiration for innovation and creativity. Ms. Inha Bereznai, a student in PCC’s Integrated Community Dental Assisting Program, shares her unique journey to becoming a professional in American dentistry.

Ms. Bereznai began her dental career in Ukraine, but due to war in her home country, she moved from Kyiv to the USA in 2022. As one could imagine, she encountered many significant challenges adapting to a new culture, but stood on her own two feet and pressed forward. Mrs Bereznai made her story not of struggle, but one of success.

Right away she pursued higher education despite English being a foreign language. She pushed past obstacles with hard work, positivity, and inner strength. Mrs. Bereznai’s advice to other students is that "There will be easy and hard times, but as long as you are dedicated and concentrate on your beliefs and desires, you will WIN,". 

This summer, Mrs. Bereznai graduated from the Integrated Community Dental Assisting Program at Portland Community College. Looking forward, she said, "I think that my greatest accomplishment will be to become a certified dental assistant in a foreign country with a foreign language within a year." Her dedication to continuing education and progressing in her career is evident, as her future goal is to become a hygienist. 

Ms. Bereznai's unwavering determination is a true inspiration to those around her. She expresses deep gratitude to all who have supported her in the US and abroad. Ms. Inha Bereznai's words ring true: " If you believe in yourself you will achieve the highest goals." 

A career in dental assisting is undeniably empowering in numerous ways, and for many, the journey of getting there truly strengthens them. Aleny Martinez, a dental assisting student of PCC’s Integrated Community Dental Assisting Program, shares her reflections on this period as a time of personal growth, meaningful learning, and overcoming challenges.

“Never give up. It's scary and unfamiliar not because you're incapable. Being nervous is part of the process. Give yourself grace as you grow. Frequent discomfort is the price of accelerated progress.” During times when Ms. Martinez faced challenges and doubts, she continued pressing forward despite her fears. She is deeply thankful for the support she received during her college experience and the inspiring encouragement from those around her. “Not letting fear control me, and allowing myself to be a beginner. Practice makes perfect. My parents are very proud of me, especially for not giving up. My instructors/mentors and parents have been my biggest supporters.”

The impact of a dental assistant on patient care is perhaps one of the most important jobs of all. It is dental assistants like Ms.Martinez who demonstrate profound compassion and play a vital role in shaping the quality of care that patients receive. "I can change how patients feel about going to the dentist by showing empathy". She treats every patient with “patience, care, and understanding. I want to make people feel less anxious and comfortable and happy."

Ms. Martinez proudly graduated this summer from the Integrated Community Dental Assisting Program of Portland Community College. She finds herself enthusiastic about building a successful career with opportunities for personal and professional growth, and fearlessly confronting any challenges head-on.