George Benjamin Harris V, B.S.D.H.
“I’ve learned the preventive aspect of oral health in great detail. Next, I hope to further my education, learning the restorative aspect as well, contributing to my vision of becoming a well-rounded, comprehensive dental provider.”
Hometown
Waverly, WV
What made you want to earn your Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene?
I wanted to earn my Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene because of the strong patient-provider relationship I noticed from prior experience in the environment, along with the ability to have a direct impact on the physical and mental health of the community, considering both the cosmetic and therapeutic benefit that occurs as a result of dental hygiene treatment. I found that the program offered here at the WVU School of Dentistry was not like other dental hygiene programs or undergraduate programs in general, offering six semesters of direct patient care, the ability to complete a two-year laboratory research study, and integration of numerous community service opportunities. Also included was a focus on dental health education, with several opportunities to teach at local elementary schools. Because of the detailed education I received, I felt well-prepared for each of several board exams, and confident to bring my skills to the real-world setting.
What school related experience did you enjoy most and why?
Rural Rotation was easily one of the most enjoyable experiences of my undergraduate studies. During the summer semester between junior and senior years, I was fortunate enough to be placed at Ghareeb Dental Group, a large practice group in the Charleston, West Virginia area. During this experience, I was able to provide dental hygiene treatment in a real-world, private practice setting, prior to graduation. As the summer progressed, I felt that I could see my clinical skills improve in small increments each day, resulting in refined clinical expertise and patient communication techniques.
What are you excited for next?
Because of the high quality dental hygiene education I received, I’ve learned the preventive aspect of oral health in great detail. Next, I hope to further my education, learning the restorative aspect as well, contributing to my vision of becoming a well-rounded, comprehensive dental provider.
