We are proud to announce Louise Cooper as our January DNN Student of the Month.
Louise was nominated by one of our assessors. After reviewing her work, we agreed she demonstrated outstanding commitment, creativity, and professionalism.
Louise is currently studying the Level 3 Certificate in Oral Health Education and Promotion. As part of her course, she created an excellent oral health education and promotion display, alongside high-quality patient leaflets for use within her practice.
We love seeing this level of passion and commitment to learning and improving patient education. We are incredibly proud of Louise.
Getting to know Louise
We asked Louise a little about herself and her journey in dentistry. Below are her responses.
What led you to become a dental nurse?
After I left school, I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do. I found a job in administration, which I enjoyed, but after a while, I wanted to find a job with more progression options. I saw a trainee dental nurse job advertised in the local newspaper (showing my age there). I got through to the interview stage but was not successful for the position, but from that moment that was what I wanted to do. I was fortunate that not long after, I was successful in getting a position at a wonderful practice that was a great support to me throughout my training and furthering my career.
What is your favourite part of dental nursing?
My day-to-day role is much more of an administrative role these days, but I like to keep up with my dental nursing, as it's the root of what led me to where I am today. I love being able to interact with a wide variety of patients and especially like helping nervous patients.
How do you plan to use your skills in your future career?
My favourite patients are the children, and I love educating children on a good oral hygiene routine. I would like to use my skills developed in this course to help deliver more oral health education and promotion in the community, especially for children.
What motivated you to complete your course?
I have wanted to gain a qualification in oral health education for many years now, as it has always been something I am very passionate about, but there was always something in the way or it was never the right time. Last year I met and got talking to another oral health education promoter; listening to them was so inspirational, and it was them who actually encouraged me to have a look around for a course that suited me, as there will be something out there. This is when I came across the DNN and found this course. I couldn’t be more pleased; the course fits into my life so well. I couldn’t be more pleased.
What tips would you give to other students about career progression?
Go for it; don’t hold. If you want it, you can achieve it. The DNN network has just a variety of courses that are so flexible and easy to follow, and they provide great support.
What are some of your hobbies outside of work?
Outside of work I like to spend time with my husband and two young girls making memories. I am also a volunteer at a local scout group.