Alison Whitlow, BDSc 2018, always wanted a career in healthcare and after starting her undergraduate degree in kinesiology, she realized that dental hygiene might be the perfect fit. We connected with Alison to learn about her time at UBC Dentistry and where her career has taken her today.
What first sparked your interest in a career in dental hygiene?
Two years into UBC’s kinesiology program, I started thinking about where my degree would take me, so I talked to my uncle, Dr. Andrew Palaniak, who is a UBC Dentistry grad. We spoke extensively about hygiene, and he encouraged me to start looking into programs. When I found out UBC had one, I connected with Dr. Zul Kanji who told me about the program and all the potential growth a degree in hygiene allows for. I decided to apply to UBC and was thrilled to get accepted!
Do you have a favourite memory of your time spent at UBC Dentistry?
I loved the community rotations because it gave me a chance to provide care to many different patients. I also vividly remember the first time I had to put my hands in someone’s mouth. I remember thinking, “this is weird!” Now I’m so used to having my hands in peoples’ mouths, but the first time was definitely strange!
What has your career trajectory looked like?
I was raised in California, so after completing my hygiene degree, I knew the next step was obtaining a California licence. I had to write the USA board exam which is very different from the Canadian one, and I also had to take extra courses. I practiced in California for about a year and a half before moving to Indiana with my husband. Every state is different, so I had to take more courses and tests—it was a lot of work!
Since I was moving around, I temped in a few offices, which was challenging but probably the best thing I ever did for my career. It made me a better hygienist, both in terms of my clinical and people skills, and I became very adaptable.
I now work part-time in a private practice in Indiana and at Dr. Jen Oral Care, a specialty toothpaste company. I reach out to hygienists and dentists, explaining the research behind the work Dr. Jen is doing. It’s been a lot of fun and has allowed me to apply my knowledge in a different way.
Do you have any advice for current dental hygiene students?
First, I would say if you ever have the chance to temp, do it! Second, enjoy being in school. Be a sponge and absorb as much knowledge and as many experiences as you can. A dental hygiene degree opens a lot of doors—you don’t have to be in the operatory your whole career.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I love to run and cycle. I became a runner during my time in hygiene school—I would literally change right after clinic, run out the doors and just keep running! I am also a Scottish Highland dance instructor and participate in the Indiana Highland Games every year. My husband and I are avid travelers and have been to many places including Singapore, Switzerland, Germany and Austria. I am hoping to take him to beautiful British Columbia soon!