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Choosing the right career can feel like a daunting decision, but for many, the journey begins with family influence and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the world. 

For McKenzie Klein, a recent graduate of С����’s Dental Assisting program, her journey began with a unique combination of family legacy and a personal passion for health. Guided by the footsteps of her family and a drive to create positive change, McKenzie set out to build her career with confidence, determination and unwavering support from her loved ones and her Herzing community. 

Now a proud graduate, McKenzie is ready to continue building a rewarding career. 

From Family Inspiration to Professional Aspiration 

The seeds of McKenzie’s career were sown early on by the inspiring examples set by the women in her family. Growing up, she watched her mom, Hollis (Holly), thrive in the dental industry, starting as a licensed dental assistant and eventually becoming a dental office manager. McKenzie’s aunts also worked in the dental field, creating a strong family connection to the profession. 

From a young age, her mother instilled the importance of oral hygiene, emphasizing the routine of brushing, flossing and using mouthwash. “Growing up, I was always really particular about oral hygiene,” McKenzie recalled. She even remembers waking her friends up during her first sleepover because they hadn’t brushed their teeth before bed.  

Holly fondly shared a story from McKenzie’s childhood that seemed to foreshadow her future: “She fell and broke her #8 tooth, which is a front tooth. When we brought her to the dentist, she wasn’t afraid. She was very intrigued by everything the dentist was doing.” At that moment, Holly had a sense that her daughter might one day follow in her footsteps. 

As McKenzie grew older and began to consider career options, she knew she wanted a profession that offered both job security and the chance to make a difference in people’s lives. Knowing that her work would help patients find confidence and improve their health, she felt a sense of responsibility to carry forward her family’s legacy of care. This became her motivation—not only to succeed but to excel in a field that brings her joy and fulfillment every day. 

Why Herzing Stands Out: The Power of Small Classes and Individual Attention 

McKenzie’s decision to enroll in С����’s Dental Assisting program was also influenced by her mother and other members of her family. When McKenzie was just a toddler, Holly attended Herzing. Holly appreciated the flexible and convenient hours of the night school program, which allowed her to be home with McKenzie during the day and attend classes at night. 

Holly also valued the small class sizes and individual tutoring available at Herzing. “The bigger classes at other colleges were overwhelming for me, and I knew it would be beneficial for McKenzie to also have smaller classes,” said Holly.  

With Herzing’s small class sizes, students have the opportunity to ask questions freely, receive more focused guidance from instructors, and gain confidence in their skills. This setting also fosters meaningful connections with both instructors and classmates, creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere for learning. 

“The small class sizes at Herzing were something I leaned toward, and it was probably the biggest factor in my decision to attend Herzing,” agreed McKenzie, noting how Herzing’s instructors offered targeted support to help her adjust, providing personalized advice and resources tailored to her growing skill set. “I liked being able to have more one-on-one time with my teachers. By the time we graduated, I felt like I had my school family. We had a group chat. We were all close-knit and had good relationships with our teachers.” 

Guiding Lights: Family as a Pillar of Support 

Holly was the first in the family to attend Herzing and pursue a career in dental assisting. Inspired by her positive experience, her sisters shadowed her at work and soon enrolled in dental programs at Herzing. Later, other family members followed. This created a strong support system for McKenzie as she embarked on her educational journey. 

Whether she was struggling with her coursework, preparing for exams or just needed encouragement, her family was always there to offer advice and support. With every milestone, McKenzie was reminded that she wasn’t just reaching her goals—she was also setting an example for others. “They reminded me, ‘It may be hard now, but you’ll get through it, just like we did,’” McKenzie shared. Seeing their success reassured her that her hard work would pay off. 

“It’s a great feeling, having her go down the same path as I did,” said Holly. She’s grateful to guide her family toward a program that offers both professional fulfillment and the flexibility to balance family life. 

Looking Ahead: Charting a Path to Success 

Reflecting on her journey, McKenzie is filled with excitement for the future. After graduating from the Dental Assisting program in August 2024, she decided to continue her education in the Dental Hygiene program at Herzing. She appreciates that earning her Bachelor of Science degree will provide greater job security and open doors to new opportunities, including teaching. 

Once she graduates, McKenzie plans to begin her career as a dental hygienist. As she moves forward, McKenzie is more excited than ever to continue her journey in dental hygiene, a field that offers her both a fulfilling career and endless possibilities for growth. She’s grateful for Herzing’s career services, which offer everything from job research to resume reviews and interview prep. 

“The number one thing I have learned is that Herzing is going to make sure you’re prepared for success both during and after the program,” McKenzie shared. “You’re always going to have help—people reach out and check up on you, even after you’ve graduated. There are always people looking out for you.” 

With the skills she’s gained, the training she’s received, and the unwavering support of both her family and Herzing, McKenzie feels prepared to tackle new challenges and advance in her career. Her journey proves that with the right foundation and encouragement, building a fulfilling career isn’t just a dream—it’s entirely within reach.