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Would studying dental or veterinary be a cheaper and easier career choice?
Hi I am currently in the process of registering to San Jose City College and I am having trouble on deciding a career choice. I am very fond of animals as I have a fair share of pets myself. I feel very passionate about this but at the same time I am aware of the effort and time it takes to study this. Although, I am also intrigued by dental study since a lot of my family members have already pursued this career and have succeeded. I am pleased with the wages for dental assistants in the area of San Jose but I am wondering if it's truly worth it.
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Adelaja’s Answer
Hi Diana,
It's great you are considering to study in the medical field. I am a Veterinarian and might be a little biased. If Vet is your preferred I will advise you go for it. The cost should not be your decision factor but where are you most passionate about? Vet or Dentistry. Go for it. With family support and your drive I believe you will put in best effort towards succeeding in either line you choose. I will advise you understand your WHY of reasons you want to study either. Go with your passion and find schools that grants scholarships in part or full and also universities that that are active in research and win lots f grants. Such Professors may provide aid to support your study as you make yourself available on field/lab projects of interest to these professors.
It's great you are considering to study in the medical field. I am a Veterinarian and might be a little biased. If Vet is your preferred I will advise you go for it. The cost should not be your decision factor but where are you most passionate about? Vet or Dentistry. Go for it. With family support and your drive I believe you will put in best effort towards succeeding in either line you choose. I will advise you understand your WHY of reasons you want to study either. Go with your passion and find schools that grants scholarships in part or full and also universities that that are active in research and win lots f grants. Such Professors may provide aid to support your study as you make yourself available on field/lab projects of interest to these professors.
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Doreen’s Answer
Congratulations Diana on your next chapter in your journey of life. You have chosen two great career paths. I started my career as a Dental Assistant 52 years ago and what an amazing rewarding career it has been. I now Supervise 8 Dental Assistants for a federally run Dental Department in a Native American Health Center. What you have decided on really will take you in two different ways. Dental Assisting is generally a two year program. No college degree, classes are required. They are fairly easy to get into. If you choose this path just be sure the program is accredited. As a veterinarian I would assume it would require a four year degree and then veterinarian school. So a big difference. However, I'm sure very rewarding. A decision also is, do I want to own a practice or work for one?
I will share something I didn't know as a young girl just entering the Dental field. I worked 30 years in private practice. Mostly Orthodontics. (my favorite) and it wasn't until I took the federal government job that I realized the incredible benefits I have now. Vacation, sick leave, retirement, matching savings, tons of paid holidays, travel and the list goes on. It was the best move of my career. Something to think about for sure. Best of luck in your journey. No choice is a wrong choice if you have passion for what you are doing. God bless you, Doreen Denisty
I will share something I didn't know as a young girl just entering the Dental field. I worked 30 years in private practice. Mostly Orthodontics. (my favorite) and it wasn't until I took the federal government job that I realized the incredible benefits I have now. Vacation, sick leave, retirement, matching savings, tons of paid holidays, travel and the list goes on. It was the best move of my career. Something to think about for sure. Best of luck in your journey. No choice is a wrong choice if you have passion for what you are doing. God bless you, Doreen Denisty
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Debra’s Answer
Dianna
I have been a dental hygienist for 30 years and started my career path by getting my dental assisting certificate. I took a look at San Jose’s classes and it appears they have advanced levels of assisting which I know can enable you to make a great income. Dentistry has been a great career for me and it has offered excellent flexibility when I needed different times and days off. I would suggest contacting a local dentist to shadow for a few days and also to contact a veterinarian and do the same. Best of luck in whatever you decide and remember you can do whatever you set your mind to do!
I have been a dental hygienist for 30 years and started my career path by getting my dental assisting certificate. I took a look at San Jose’s classes and it appears they have advanced levels of assisting which I know can enable you to make a great income. Dentistry has been a great career for me and it has offered excellent flexibility when I needed different times and days off. I would suggest contacting a local dentist to shadow for a few days and also to contact a veterinarian and do the same. Best of luck in whatever you decide and remember you can do whatever you set your mind to do!
Updated
Flora’s Answer
Diana, it's truly wonderful to see you taking the initiative to plan your career and future. Embarking on a journey towards a medical degree requires a combination of discipline, commitment, and sound financial planning. Every medical journey commences with a four-year undergraduate degree, leading up to an application to medical school where you'll be charting the course of your future career. Both professions, whether it's dentistry or veterinary medicine, are highly esteemed and in high demand. The initial four years of education will be the same for both professions, providing you with ample time to discern which one aligns better with your interests and aspirations.
I would strongly recommend utilizing your summer break to acquire some practical experience in both fields. Given that you have family members who are dentists, you have a unique opportunity to secure an internship or shadowing experience easily. If your heart is drawn towards caring for animals, consider volunteering at an animal shelter. This will allow you to network with a veterinary doctor and potentially shadow or intern at their office. Immersing yourself in the day-to-day life of these professionals will offer you a clearer perspective on which career path you'd like to pursue.
I would strongly recommend utilizing your summer break to acquire some practical experience in both fields. Given that you have family members who are dentists, you have a unique opportunity to secure an internship or shadowing experience easily. If your heart is drawn towards caring for animals, consider volunteering at an animal shelter. This will allow you to network with a veterinary doctor and potentially shadow or intern at their office. Immersing yourself in the day-to-day life of these professionals will offer you a clearer perspective on which career path you'd like to pursue.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Diana,
Choosing between studying dental or veterinary medicine as a career path involves considering various factors such as cost, ease of entry, passion for the field, potential income, and personal interests. Here is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision:
1. Cost of Education:
Dental: Pursuing a career in dentistry typically involves significant educational expenses. Dental school tuition can be quite high, and the overall cost of education, including books, materials, and living expenses, can add up.
Veterinary: Veterinary school also requires a substantial financial investment. The cost of veterinary education can vary depending on the institution and whether you choose to specialize in a particular area of veterinary medicine.
2. Length of Study:
Dental: Becoming a dentist usually requires completing a bachelor’s degree followed by four years of dental school.
Veterinary: To become a veterinarian, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree followed by four years of veterinary school.
3. Job Outlook and Income Potential:
Dental: The job outlook for dental professionals is generally positive, with opportunities for growth and competitive salaries. Dental assistants in San Jose can earn attractive wages.
Veterinary: The demand for veterinarians is also expected to grow, especially with the increasing focus on pet care. However, veterinarians may face challenges such as dealing with emotional situations involving sick or injured animals.
4. Work Environment and Job Satisfaction:
Dental: Dentists often work in clean, well-equipped offices and have regular hours. They may enjoy helping patients improve their oral health.
Veterinary: Veterinarians work in clinics, hospitals, or even farms. They deal with a variety of animals and health issues, which can be rewarding but also emotionally challenging.
5. Personal Passion and Interests:
Consider your passion for animals and your interest in healthcare when making your decision. If you have a strong connection with animals and find fulfillment in caring for them, veterinary medicine might be the right choice for you.
In conclusion, both dental and veterinary careers have their own merits and challenges. It’s essential to weigh factors such as cost, time commitment, job outlook, income potential, work environment, and personal interests before making your decision.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA provides reliable information on dental education requirements, job outlook for dental professionals, and industry trends.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): The AVMA offers insights into veterinary education costs, career paths in veterinary medicine, and the latest developments in the field.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides data on job outlooks, median salaries, and other relevant information for both dental professionals and veterinarians.
God Bless You,
JC.
Choosing between studying dental or veterinary medicine as a career path involves considering various factors such as cost, ease of entry, passion for the field, potential income, and personal interests. Here is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision:
1. Cost of Education:
Dental: Pursuing a career in dentistry typically involves significant educational expenses. Dental school tuition can be quite high, and the overall cost of education, including books, materials, and living expenses, can add up.
Veterinary: Veterinary school also requires a substantial financial investment. The cost of veterinary education can vary depending on the institution and whether you choose to specialize in a particular area of veterinary medicine.
2. Length of Study:
Dental: Becoming a dentist usually requires completing a bachelor’s degree followed by four years of dental school.
Veterinary: To become a veterinarian, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree followed by four years of veterinary school.
3. Job Outlook and Income Potential:
Dental: The job outlook for dental professionals is generally positive, with opportunities for growth and competitive salaries. Dental assistants in San Jose can earn attractive wages.
Veterinary: The demand for veterinarians is also expected to grow, especially with the increasing focus on pet care. However, veterinarians may face challenges such as dealing with emotional situations involving sick or injured animals.
4. Work Environment and Job Satisfaction:
Dental: Dentists often work in clean, well-equipped offices and have regular hours. They may enjoy helping patients improve their oral health.
Veterinary: Veterinarians work in clinics, hospitals, or even farms. They deal with a variety of animals and health issues, which can be rewarding but also emotionally challenging.
5. Personal Passion and Interests:
Consider your passion for animals and your interest in healthcare when making your decision. If you have a strong connection with animals and find fulfillment in caring for them, veterinary medicine might be the right choice for you.
In conclusion, both dental and veterinary careers have their own merits and challenges. It’s essential to weigh factors such as cost, time commitment, job outlook, income potential, work environment, and personal interests before making your decision.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA provides reliable information on dental education requirements, job outlook for dental professionals, and industry trends.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): The AVMA offers insights into veterinary education costs, career paths in veterinary medicine, and the latest developments in the field.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides data on job outlooks, median salaries, and other relevant information for both dental professionals and veterinarians.
God Bless You,
JC.