Disclaimer: The views expressed by our interviewees are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of GradSimple. We only edit these responses for clarity. All opinions remain those of the interviewee.
- Name: Natalie G.
- Year Of Graduation: 2022
- College/University: Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
- Major: Diploma in Dental Technology
What do you do for a living? Can you share what a typical day at work looks like? Do you enjoy what you do?
I just got hired as a grocery clerk at an organic grocery store. I was unemployed for about a month after being laid off from my job as a Dental Technician (due to lack of business/work). I decided I did not want to keep pursuing dental technology. When I was a dental technician, I read dentist’s prescriptions, and then 3D modeled the prescribed dental appliance using a dental design software called 3Shape. I specialized in night guards. I would sit at a desk and design about 8 night guards daily until clocking out. The work was tolerable and very quiet/laid-back, but I did not enjoy it enough to keep pursuing it. Around the time I got laid off, I was starting to feel unbearably unfulfilled with my job. Like I wasn’t contributing anything super meaningful.
Can you tell me about your experience finding a job after graduation? Are you happy with where your journey has led you thus far?
Finding a job after graduation was very easy for me. I found a job the month that I graduated, and so did most of my classmates. There will always be a need for Registered Dental Technicians. I’d say I don’t regret my journey. I made enough money to support myself and my partner for a while. I learned more about myself, as well. I learned that I don’t enjoy factory-esque work and that I find value in interacting with people. I also learned that my intelligence type isn’t mechanical/spatial, which is needed to progress in the field of Dental Technology.
Why did you choose your undergrad major? Do you feel your time spent in college was valuable? Why or why not?
I chose dental technology after being told by someone that I’d be good at it and happy with it. I also thought since I like making things, I could apply that to a job. I don’t suggest only listening to what others tell you to do. Feel it in your own heart and soul instead. Make your own decisions.
My time in college was definitely valuable. I made a lot of friends, I overcame all the challenges in class, and I feel proud I graduated. I will admit that you can work in dental labs without any schooling, though (which I didn’t know until I graduated). At most, a diploma might help you get the job more easily.
If I asked you three years ago, what goals would you hope you’ve achieved, in life or career?
I was hoping that I’d already be in the career I want to have for the rest of my life, haha! Oh well. At least I achieved my life goal of moving out of my dad’s house, meeting a wonderful partner, and getting my own cat.
How important is it to have a purpose-driven life? Why or why not? Do you think you’re on a path to do that? If not, what needs to change?
It’s very important for me to live a purpose-driven life. I’m not sure if I feel purpose right now; I’m confused. I’m currently in the limbo part of my path. I don’t have a set plan or final decision on my next career. I need to keep trying to heal from my anxiety disorder and not worry so much about where to go. Eventually, I believe I will end up where I need to be. Everything is going to be alright.
What’s your biggest struggle right now? What led to it? How are you moving forward?
My biggest struggle is navigating my severe anxiety disorder. I was born with it. It’s all I’ve ever known. Inch by inch, I move forward by seeking help from mental health professionals, meditating daily, and taking care of my body. I also have an awesome support system. So thankful.
What interests/hobbies bring you the most happiness?
Art! I crochet, make jewelry, paint, and do photography. Art has always been something that takes me out of my anxious mind. Last year, I sustained an injury to my nerves, and I had to stop making art for a while. I really missed it. I’m only starting to get back into it, while not fully healed yet.
What do you want to spend more time working on? What is stopping you?
I want to work more on improving my self-confidence and getting good at practicing mindfulness and gratitude. Nothing is stopping me but myself. (Woah, that’s deep!) I also want to work on improving my art.
If we traveled three years into the future of your life, what do you want to achieve? What would you hope has changed?
I hope to be in school for something else, or working a new career/job that suits me much better. I would hope that I’ve made progress with my mental health, and that I’ve learned more about who I am. I just want to be happy again, which I understand can happen at any time, and under any circumstances…it just takes time and dedication to rewire your mind towards positivity.
What’s the biggest lesson or piece of advice you wish you’d known earlier?
Everyone makes mistakes, and it’s alright to make mistakes. It’s part of learning. There’s nothing wrong with you; you’re just doing what humans often do. I bet someone in your position before has made the same mistake as you! Never do you ever deserve punishment for it. Also, and comparison is the thief of joy. Oh, and get off Reddit (it’s very pessimistic), hahah!
Connect With Natalie:
- Instagram: @emisan.art
P.S. Wanna see more graduate interviews? Subscribe to GradSimple and get the good stuff delivered straight to your inbox, once a week!
