Three second-year students from PCC’s dental laboratory program have earned scholarships to further pursue careers in dentistry.Phil Acevedo, Marjorie De La Cruz and Josh Rubino respectively won first, second and third place Allied Dental Health scholarships last month, ranging from $200 to over $600.
The San Gabriel Valley Dental Society, the California Dental Association Foundation and the Dental Foundation of California award the scholarships annually based on personal statements, demonstrated leadership and achievements, and a desire to pursue a career in the dental field, according to Juan Gutierrez, PCC’s public relations director.
First place recipient Acevedo plans to go to dental school, and says that the scholarship and the experience he’s gained in the program helps in applying for admission.
Deciding how to gain experience for dental school, Acevedo chose PCC’s dental laboratory program over a master’s program, and feels that he will be better prepared.
“I’m going to be a much better dentist because of this,” said Acevedo.
He added that it used to be required for dentists to have dental technician training.
For De La Cruz, the dental lab tech program allows her to express her artistic side.
“I’m really good with my hands, and was supposed to be an art major, but this program was better,” said De La Cruz. “Dental technology is more of an art for me, and I don’t have to deal with patients,” she said, noting one of the major stresses of dentistry.
She plans to continue her studies at UCLA’s maxillofacial laboratory program.
A good tech not only makes the tooth function, but makes it look more natural,” said Acevedo.
Josh Rubino comes from a family connected to dentistry. His father is a dentist, and his mother is a hygienist.
After they retire, his parents plan to keep doing work by renting a dental chair at a practice, and Rubino plans to assist them as a lab tech.
The students are positive about PCC’s dental tech program, and noted that a recent ADA accreditation called it a model for the country.
“They train you so well here, you could open your own lab if you want to,” said Rubino.
The students also agreed that the strength of their training was due to Program Director Anita Bobich.
“She’s the heart and soul of this program,” said Acevedo.
Besides being a good tech herself, she’s very committed to the program.”
“I don’t see how she does all that she does. She must get three hours of sleep a night,” he added.
“If Bobich retired, it would be hard to replace her,” said Rubino.
He noted that Bobich does a good job obtaining grants for the program.
The students were quick to put their scholarship money to use.
Acevedo bought a new laptop to use for dental school, while De La Cruz and Rubino each bought a porcelain kit, which is used to build porcelain teeth.
Five other PCC students from the dental hygiene and dental assisting programs also won Allied Dental Health Scholarships.
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