Meet the class of 2026: Emma Rampanen
Emma Rampanen will never forget working with a youth who is new to Canada and had never been to the dentist before.
In addition to providing care, the Dental Hygiene graduate helped her patient further understand the Canadian health-care system. The experience stayed with her because it showed how important early dental visits can be.
“Being able to help create a sense of comfort and security while reducing barriers to accessing future dental care was incredibly impactful,” she says. “It reinforced why I chose this profession.”
She also remembers her first client in the VIU dental clinic who was a member of the public, not a fellow classmates. She felt nervous at first, but once the patient was in the chair, her focus shifted.
“All my attention went to making sure they were comfortable and getting quality care,” Emma says.
“Clinic quickly became the highlight of my week. No matter how stressful school became, when I had a patient in my chair, they became my entire focus. It gave me the opportunity to apply what I had learned while also feeling like I was making a meaningful impact.”
Emma says moments like these show that dental hygiene is not only about cleaning teeth.
“It is also about helping people feel safe, supported and empowered to care for their health.”
As she gets ready to start her career, Emma is full of gratitude for the instructors, peers, patients, friends and family that helped her get through the program.
“You are surrounded by peers, instructors and mentors who genuinely want to see you succeed, and a lot of the real learning happens when you allow yourself to make mistakes, ask questions and grow from the experience,” she says. “The program challenged me in so many ways, but it also helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
Emma’s immediate future plans include writing her board exam and starting her career with a dental office in Qualicum Beach. She is excited to stay connected to the community while building her skills as a clinician.
“I hope to continue advancing my education and contribute to dental hygiene research to help further progress the profession,” she says. “I’m excited for what comes next.”
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