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WHY I STRIVE
FOR EXCELLENCE
MARLA DUNLAP
CERTIFIED HIGHER EDUCATION PROFESSIONAL (CHEP) IN TEACHING
DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM DIRECTOR — CONCORDE CAREER COLLEGE — MEMPHIS
How many years of experience do you
have in higher education?
I have more than eight years of experience in higher education.
How did you begin your career in higher
education?
My peers encouraged me to pursue teaching, as they had noted
my interactions with patients and co-workers and the joy I had
for the profession. I wanted to contribute and give back to the
field that had been so rewarding to me by disseminating what
I'd learned. e chance to help improve someone else's life by
offering them the same opportunity I was afforded is what
makes me pursue lifelong learning.
What part of your job brings you the
most personal satisfaction?
I'm most satisfied when I see the "light bulb go off " when
a student understands a concept they were once struggling
with. In that moment, I know I've inspired them to continue
pursuing their dreams and helped them realize they can
conquer anything if they're committed to the challenge.
What advice do you have for fellow
educators in the career college sector of
higher education?
My advice for fellow educators is to realize there's more than
one learning style, and instructors must accommodate all styles
when teaching. Being flexible and providing various methods of
instruction are invaluable when striving to become an effective
educator. Regardless of teaching experience, you should always
want to grow as an educator.
