Garden Grove Dental Assistant Student Leads by Example
Shemaiah Javillonar’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and passion. A dedicated student in the Dental Assistant (DA) program at UEI College in Garden Grove, she has overcome significant challenges to reach where she is today. From immigrating to the U.S. from the Philippines as a child to serving in the U.S. Army for a decade, each phase of Shemaiah’s life has shaped her commitment to achieving success.
Recently, Shemaiah was awarded the prestigious Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship from the Pacific Dental Services Foundation (PDSF). This scholarship is a recognition of her determination to excel in the dental field and her dedication to education. The scholarship is up to $5,000 in tuition assistance and includes mentorship opportunities to students who demonstrate leadership, service, and a passion for the dental profession.
A Path Shaped by Life Experiences
Shemaiah’s initial career path wasn’t always directed toward dentistry. She began her educational journey studying kinesiology, but the field didn’t resonate with her. However, her family, many of whom work in the dental field, encouraged her to consider a path in dentistry. Though she was initially not sure if she would like it, Shemaiah found her true calling after starting the dental assisting program at UEI. “I didn’t think I wanted to be in dental, but after trying out the UEI program, I thought, ‘Wow, this is so hands-on. I feel so confident about it,’” she said.
Beyond her growing interest in the field, Shemaiah’s military background played a key role in shaping her mindset and work ethic. After graduating from high school, she enlisted in the U.S. Army, where she has served for 10 years, earning the rank of Sergeant. During her service, Shemaiah developed critical life skills, including leadership, discipline, and confidence, all of which she applied to her education at UEI.
“The military taught me how to be confident and take risks,” she said. “I got to travel, meet so many people, and it helped me realize what my goals are.”
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Shemaiah’s journey at UEI has not been without obstacles. While excelling academically, she also dealt with personal hardships. Working full-time and attending UEI, Shemaiah had to carefully balance her schedule to stay on top of her studies. She credited the support of UEI instructors, particularly her Dental Assistant Instructor Martha Flores, for helping her stay focused.
“Shemaiah faced challenges that would’ve made others stop, but she didn’t,” said Ms. Flores. “She’s a fantastic student and role model.”
Ms. Flores’ encouragement helped Shemaiah push through the tough times, giving her the confidence to succeed. “She’s the reason why I’m here,” Shemaiah said. “I’m confident in what I want to do because of her.”
A Scholarship to Smile About
Shemaiah’s hard work and determination paid off when she was selected for the Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship from the Pacific Dental Services Foundation (PDSF). Named after Dr. Carolyn Ghazal for her heart for service and mentorship, the scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate a deep passion for the dental field. Since its creation, PDSF has awarded over $1.7 million in scholarships to more than 300 dental assistant students.
“I heard about the scholarship and decided to apply because I could really use it,” Shemaiah explained. “The scholarship has been a life-changing opportunity for me, and I am extremely grateful that they picked me.”
“It actually brought tears to my eyes to see her get the scholarship, knowing everything she went through with her personal life,” Ms. Flores said. “I am very, very proud of her.”
“The PDS Foundation is proud to contribute to the future of the dental assistant profession and support the career development of Shemaiah,” said Rose Olague, Director of School Relations and Dental Assistant Programs at PDS Health and member of the PDS Foundation Advisory Board.
Olague started her career with PDS Health 15 years ago as a Dental Assistant Extern with Dr. Ghazal. Now she gives back through serving on the Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship Committee and PDS Foundation Advisory board along with mentoring scholarship recipients.
“It has been my professional purpose to play an active role in helping others achieve their definition of success – both personally and professionally,” Olague said. “The Pacific Dental Services family provided a platform for me to achieve both personal and professional success that I could have never imagined or thought of when I started my career 15 years ago. I hope to share my experience with other healthcare professionals through mentorship and advising, as we all navigate the complexity of our careers and this adventure we call life. It’s truly rewarding to share my own passion, grit, tenacity, spunk and pearls of wisdom with others in hopes that they can achieve their definition of success and create a legacy of their own, which embodies a servant-hearted leadership style.”
A Message of Gratitude
Looking back on her journey, Shemaiah reflects on the sacrifices she’s made and the lessons she’s learned along the way. “Temporary sacrifices lead to permanent careers,” she said. “Every morning, I told myself, ‘This is just one step closer to where I want to be.’ Now, eight months later, I’m here graduating.”
As she prepares for the next chapter in her life, Shemaiah is incredibly grateful for the support she has received—from her family, her instructors, and the Pacific Dental Services Foundation. “Thank you so much. I’m very grateful,” she said. “When you don’t have much, you’re grateful for even the smallest things. This wasn’t small; this was huge for me. I’ll never forget the support I received, and it’s something that will help me in my career and my life.”
Shemaiah plans to further her education after graduating from UEI and become a dental hygienist after gaining experience as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Her long-term commitment to her education and passion for the dental field serves as an inspiration to others. “I know I can do this,” she said, filled with confidence for the future.
