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Rukondo Kachope. Photo supplied.

For Rukondo Kachope, the appeal of dental assisting lies in its variety — and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. During his time in the program, he earned the Top Academic Award in his cohort. Kachope is now looking ahead to a future in dental health where he can keep growing his skills. 

What drew you to this area of study?

I was drawn to dental assisting because of the wide range of opportunities it offers. It's a diverse field with many different roles, responsibilities and specialties to explore.

What are you most proud of from your time in the program?

I'm grateful to have received the Top Academic Award in my cohort. It was encouraging to see my hard work throughout the program recognized in that way.

How did you stay motivated when things got tough?

Keeping my eye on the end goal and having a strong support system helped motivate me when things got tough. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle also kept me from burning out; swimming and jogging in particular were great ways for me to decompress.

What are your go-to spots on campus?

Mostly ECHA because of its proximity to my classes.

Did you receive any awards or funding for your studies?

The Top Academic Award I received included a financial component.

Did you have any interesting experiences outside of class?

I had the opportunity to give a group presentation at Belgravia Elementary School on the importance of oral hygiene. We spent a lot of time tailoring our message to suit a younger audience, and it was very rewarding to see the students engage with our presentation and the activities we prepared. As a future health-care professional, this experience reinforced how important it is to consider each individual's unique needs and interests, and how this can significantly affect the impact of your message.

What advice would you give to students thinking of entering this program?

Make the most of your time in the clinic and the Sim Lab. Building confidence in your skills comes with time and practice, which is why those hands-on experiences are invaluable.

What comes next for you?

I'm excited to continue developing my skills as a dental assistant while exploring possibilities within the dental field. Now that I've gained some experience in the workforce, I realize just how much more there is to learn. There are many continuing education opportunities available for dental professionals, including several offered by the ÒÁÈËÖ±²¥, which I look forward to taking advantage of in the future.