Daviana's Story Is for Anyone Who Felt Lost After High School

Do you want to find your passion and turn it into a fulfilling career? Meet Daviana Vargas, a recent Concorde grad who's now living her best life as a dental assistant.

Like many of us, Daviana felt lost when considering what to do after high school. She knew she was interested in healthcare but felt overwhelmed by the choices. It wasn't until a chance encounter that things started to click.

“After my graduation from high school, I didn't really know where to start when it came to my career. I was kind of stuck in place. And I was working my nine to five job, always living paycheck-to -paycheck,” she shared.

Daviana was working as a cashier when a student in Concorde scrubs came through her line. They started a conversation, and Daviana was instantly intrigued. Sometimes, all it takes is a little spark to ignite a whole new path!
 

Juggling Work, Life and School

Daviana's decision to enroll in Concorde’s Dental Assistant program in Jacksonville, FL was a significant step toward training for a new career. However, like many students, she faced challenges along the way.

One of the biggest hurdles was balancing her demanding schedule. Working night shifts while attending classes made it difficult to find time for both studying and her personal life. However, she never lost sight of her goal: to train for a career she loved in the dental field.

“I had to take a big risk of quitting my job, and really investing in Concorde headstrong. It was a big change for me. But I knew in the end it was going to be worth it,” she said proudly.

Daviana's determination paid off. She not only completed the program but also discovered valuable time management skills that would serve her well in her future career.
 

Daviana's Externship Experience

Concorde's healthcare career training programs emphasize practical experience, and Daviana found her externship experiences to be invaluable.

During her rotations, Daviana trained at two dental offices: Access Cosmetics and Oakleaf Family Dentistry. These experiences exposed her to diverse procedures, including taking X-rays, making impressions and assisting with various dental treatments. Daviana particularly valued her time at Oakleaf Family Dentistry, where she gained experience working with children.

Reflecting on her externship experiences, Daviana shared, "It was a great experience for me. I loved every minute of it. I never missed a day or even came late. I always made sure I was on time and always wanted to just keep learning more."
 

Finding Strength and Support in Community

Daviana's journey wasn't a solo mission. She found incredible strength and support from the people around her. Concorde faculty, classmates and loved ones all played a crucial role in helping her succeed.

Her passionate instructors pushed Daviana to be her best and never let her give up on herself. And her friendly classmates formed a tight-knit study group to keep each other motivated throughout the program.

"I had some self-doubts," she shares, "but really it was Concorde that really built me up to push forward and keep seeing light at the end of the tunnel."
 

But the support didn't stop there! Daviana's boyfriend, sister and cousin were her personal cheerleaders throughout her Concorde journey. They believed in her even when she doubted herself and helped her through some tough times, like when she was facing housing and job insecurity.

Daviana's story is a reminder that having a strong support system is key to achieving your goals. Whether it's our teachers, friends, family or all the above, surrounding yourself with people who believe in you can make all the difference.
 

Making the Most Out of Her Newfound Freedom

Remember those long nights juggling work and studies? As a full-fledged dental assistant at Affordable Dentures, Daviana enjoys evenings filled with home-cooked meals and leisurely walks with her dog.

"Now that I'm not always working a nine to five or working late hours, I really just put time to myself,” she shares. "I have time! I have so much time on my hands now that I'm able to do anything I wasn't able to do before."

If you’re considering a career in healthcare, but feeling unsure about where to start, Daviana encourages anyone interested in the field to visit a Concorde campus.    

"Take a tour at Concorde and really just see the experience like I did," Daviana suggests. "I'm glad that I chose this experience for myself. I wouldn't have second guessed it any other way, or if I was ever to try again, I would just do it all over again.”
 

Understanding Your Own Aspirations after High School

Like Daviana, many people are unsure what to do after high school. The pressure to choose a career path can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure what your passions truly are.

If you're feeling lost or unsure about your future, remember that it's OK to explore your options. Here are a few tips to help you discover your aspirations:

• Reflect on your interests: Take some time for introspection and consider what truly motivates and inspires you. Your interests can provide valuable clues about potential career paths.
• Talk to people in different fields: Reach out to professionals in careers that spark your curiosity. Hearing their firsthand experiences can give you valuable insights.
• Consider your values: What's important to you in a career? Do you value helping others, problem-solving or something else? Aligning your career with your values can lead to greater fulfillment.
• Don't be afraid to try new things: Volunteer, take a part-time job, or enroll in a short course to gain experience in different fields. Hands-on experience can help you solidify your interests.
• Take a career quiz: There are many online quizzes that can help you assess your skills, interests, and personality traits to suggest potential career paths. While not definitive, these quizzes, like our healthcare personality quiz, can be a fun and helpful starting point.
• Remember that your path can evolve: Your aspirations may change over time, and that's perfectly normal. Be open to exploring new possibilities and adjusting your course as you grow and learn.

Discover Hands-On Healthcare Career-Focused Education at Concorde

Daviana's decision to pursue dental assisting stemmed from a chance encounter and a willingness to explore a new path. By understanding her own interests and values, she found a career that brings her joy and fulfillment.

If you're looking for a rewarding career in healthcare, Concorde can help you get there! With 17 campuses across eight states, hands-on training and a strong focus on student success, we provide the tools and resources you need to achieve your goals. To get started, schedule a tour or contact us online.