Title: Dental Hygienist - Part Time
Experience: 14 years with a 4 year break as a SAHM
Age: 35
Salary: $48k/yr which varies slightly depending on bonuses. I work 2-3 days/wk, so I'm satisfied with the salary. I also get a 401k match plus a discretionary profit sharing contribution.
Education: Associates Degree from a community college
I was always a good student, did well on my SATs, and my parents were willing to fund whatever college education I wanted to pursue, but I chose this profession almost solely because I wanted to be a mother. I was looking for something that gave me the flexibility to work part time, while still making good money. I also felt bad pursuing an expensive college degree at my parents' expense when I wasn't planning on using it if I married someone who made enough for me to be a SAHM. I am mostly happy with my chosen path, however, I wouldn't recommend the profession for someone who is looking to work full-time for their entire career. I worked 6 days/week before we had kids, and looking back, I don't know how I did it. It is killer on my back, neck and shoulders, even at a part-time level. Also, I work in a very high-stress, busy office. It is not uncommon to work an 8 hour day without time to eat or use the bathroom. I love the people I work with, and my bosses are good, ethical dentists, otherwise I'd probably be looking for something in a slower paced office. I am not someone who thrives in a high stress environment.